Madge Owens is the prettiest girl in a small Kansas town, movie star pretty. Everyone thinks so. A sweet, naïve young woman, she knows she’s not especially smart, but hopes someone will love her for her nature, not her figure. Mrs. Owens is intent on marrying her off to the local, ivy educated rich boy, Alan Benson. Her daughter is taking the patch of least resistance fully aware they have nothing in common…until a somewhat disreputable friend of Alan’s passes through, heats up the town, and wrecks the status quo. There’s nothing sophisticated about Madge’s wardrobe. Much, in fact, is homemade. Everything is easy, feminine and somewhat conservative.
Enchanted Afternoon Dress
Let your best beau row you across the lake in Central Park, go to a county fair or scour weekend fleas. Pretty and vintage looking, this dress will make you feel girlish. Machine washable, cotton/spandex dress with removable, adjustable belt, lined bodice, back zipper closure, full skirt. Runs large at bust. $100.00
Lindy Bop “Bella” Classy Vintage 1950’s Rockabilly Style Jive Dress
Red in somewhat brave for Madge, but not for you. This raspberry colored dress will swish into an ice cream parlor eliciting smiles. Dress up with kitten heels (which are back, by the way.) Made from high quality, two-way stretch bengaline fabric, its touch is soft, its cling like second skin. Comfortable, easy, figure enhancing. Contrasting black trim top of dress and armholes. Decorative buttons at the bodice. Full skirt. $47.00
Bernie Dexter What a Dahlia Dress
You’d have to fight Zooey Deschanel for this one. Take it to the Hamptons and wear barefoot in your garden; less make-up, hair loose. Ready to square dance or slow dance under summer lanterns. Sighs of times gone by. 100% cotton. Runs small at gathered bust. Sheer, light fabric; unlined. Hidden back zipper fastening. Pockets at the hips. Fitted waist. $156.00
More Sophisticated Interpretations
Left: MSGM Lace-Print Cotton Dress- A bit more upscale in print pattern and coloration, this version will suit urban rooftop bars as well as country socials. A good piece with which to travel. All day sightseeing will be comfortable and there’s no need to change for dinner. Gently multicolored silhouette with round neck, fitted top, full pleated skirt; side pockets. Hidden center back zipper fastening. Sits below the knee. $441.00
Right: Lindy Bop Classy Vintage Audrey Hepburn Style Swing Dress- This is an ageless piece. Make sure to proportion skirt length to your frame and you can’t go wrong. Dresses up or down with great panache. Iconic silhouette ; wide, flared circle skirt, hidden side zipper fastening. Available in 8 colors. Lightweight, cotton/elastane and machine washable. $47.00
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The revival of Picnic starring Maggie Grace is currently at the American Airlines Theater. Most remember Kim Novak as Madge in the film.
Opening Photo: Sebastian Stan and Maggie Grace (left) in the current Broadway Production. William Holden and Kim Novak in the iconic film.
Source:
http://www.womanaroundtown.com/sections/shopping-around/dress-like-madge-owens-in-william-inge%E2%80%99s-picnic