Do you have a passion for fashion, but also a love for all things vintage? If so, then you won’t want to miss out on learning about one of the most iconic and timeless dress labels in history- Jonathan Logan. With its roots dating back to the 1940s, this brand has stood the test of time and continues to be a staple in the world of vintage fashion.

Join me as we delve into the history and unique style of Jonathan Logan, and discover why this brand has remained a favorite among fashion enthusiasts for decades. From its humble beginnings to its enduring legacy, get ready to explore the world of Jonathan Logan and unlock the secrets of its enduring appeal.

Photo Courtesy of: Couture Allure

Disclosure: Some of the links on my blog from Etsy , eBay are Affiliate Links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Note: If you click on an item and it is no longer available, don’t fret! The websites I have provided are updated daily with 1000’s of new & vintage items. Just do a quick search and see what you find.

Jonathan Logan-A Classic Vintage Dress Label

Yup I can hear already what you are saying…”WOW!”, “Beautiful!”, “where can I get one?”, see why I’m obsessed and that is only picture one!

THE FASHION HISTORY

The Company was founded in 1944 by David Schwartz with a small arsenal of dedicated employees, including the first designer of the label “Doris Varnum” and quickly became known for their excellent quality and classic styles (vintage fashion guild).

Here is a Doris Varnum design from 1947

Photo courtesy of: Retrogator.com

I’m already picturing myself in this dress 🙂 As you can see from the Ad above the label was sold at Department stores all across the country, so you were never far away from being able to purchase a Jonathan Logan dress (wish that was the case today).

In the late 1950’s, Doris was replaced with designer Jeanne Carr. Here are some 1950’s designs (Note: some of these designs might be Doris designs as Jeanne did not start designing to late 1950’s but I’m unsure what is considered “late”):

Photo Courtesy of: myvintagevogue.com

1950’s Jonathan Logan full circle skirt cocktail dress.

Photo Courtesy of Etsy seller: dLeChe

Photo Courtesy of: myvintagevogue.com

By the 1960’s the Jonathan Logan label become the largest ready to wear company in the USA. 1963 actually recorded $100 million in annual sales, unheard of for a women’s clothing company and it also became the first women’s clothing company to be listed on the New York Stock exchange (Jewish Virtual Library).

Some 1960’s looks….

Photo Courtesy of: myvintagevogue.com

The label eventually spread its wings into 14 different brands, each geared to a different consumer group. Some of the those lines included “Butte Knit” specializing in knitted apparel at a time that classification was just beginning to flourish. “Bleeker Street” in 1966 to promote the Carnaby Street Boutique popularity (Carnaby St in London, England by the 1960’s was where you could find the “Mod” & “Hippy” styles-Wikipedia), a line that was in existence till 1974.

Schwartz guided Logan until 1964, when he appointed his son president and chief operating officer but remained as chairman.  Richard Schwartz was then 25 years old, the youngest president of any business on the New York Stock Exchange (Jewish Virtual Library).

By 1985 though the Schwartz family sold their interest in the company and moved onto other business ventures.

Today the Jonathan Logan labels are very popular for Vintage lovers (especially the 1950’s designs) and can be found on Etsy & eBay with some of the early designs costing into the hundreds to purchase.

Jonathan Logan Dresses Real Life Examples

(Updated Feb 2024)

1950s Vintage Shopping: I have created a collection on Etsy featuring 1950s fashions & more Jonathan logan dresses that I update monthly. Visit HERE.

Note: If you click on an item and it is no longer available, don’t fret! The websites I have provided are updated daily with 1000’s of new & vintage items. Just do a quick search and see what you find.

This 1955 Jonathan Logan top and skirt featuring a multi-coloured polka dotted set is just so special especially when you find the matching 1950s advertisement.

Source: Etsy – VINTAGEVAVAVOOMZ

“Let’s play tic-tac-toe” -1952 Jonathan Logan light-weight silk taffeta in a dijon-mustard yellow with a cute black tic-tac-toe print (avail as of Feb, 2024 HERE).

Source: Etsy – labellevintage

The original 1950s ad (or catalog page) states: “Let’s play tic-tac-toe in this mesmerizing silk taffeta designed by Jonathan Logan with cleverly detailed kerchief at neck. A wonderful wide skirt which remains full with or without crinoline. The simple black button trim on bodice and sleeves plus shiny patent belt afford excellent contrast with this conversation-making print. $14.95”.

Source: Etsy – labellevintage

1950s Jonathan Logan blue grey dress with peplum / pearl details.

Source: Etsy – LittleBirdVtg

1960s Jonathan Logan Hot Pink Mid-Century Print Dagger Collar Dress.

Source: Etsy

1950’s/60’s White and Blue Jonathan Logan Floral Fit and Flare Summer Dress (avail as of Feb 2024 HERE).

Source: Etsy

 1950s original pink red check Jonathan Logan cotton dress and jacket.

Source: Etsy

1950’s Jonathan Logan impressionist monet-esque floral dress & matching bolero with portrait collar.

Source: Etsy

1950’s Striped Cotton Johnathan Logan Fit and Flare.

Source: Etsy

When you can find a deadstock dress, that is a true vintage find (meaning never worn, tags on). Here is a stunner of a deadstock 1950s Jonathan Logan dress in the shirtwaist style that was oh so popular.

Gosh I love this dress!

Source: Etsy

Spring is the perfect time to wear this stunning 1950s Jonathan Logan, gathered floral chiffon skirt over blue bias (circle) skirt cocktail dress. LOVE IT!

Source: Etsy

A beautiful vintage 1950’s dropped waist dress by Jonathan Logan. The bottom layer is a pink/white micro check and the top layer is a white lace.

Source: Etsy

Floaty chiffon 1950s vintage aqua & pink floral party dress. STUNNING!

Source: Etsy

1950s Vintage Jonathan Logan Yellow Full Pleated Skirt Cotton Dress.

Source: Etsy

1950s Jonathan Logan brown striped dress. Perfect for Fall!

Source: Etsy

Pink Striped 1950s Jonathan Logan Dress.

Source: Etsy

Jonathan Logan 1950’s mint condition dress. So Pretty!

Source: Etsy

Jonathan Logan 1950s two piece women’s suit (skirt & jacket).

 Etsy

I only own one 1970’s dress and it’s my grandmothers from my parents wedding day. It’s a stunner. This I will be honest, is also a stunner. A 1970s Jonathan Logan, Dead-Stock Chevron Stripe Autumn Maxi Dress. The colours are just fantastic!

Source: Etsy

I hope you enjoyed this blog post and I also hope I helped you discover a new vintage designer. I know that I will be online window shopping later on today for a Jonathan Logan dress to add to my collection. Will you?

Further Reading:

• Vintage Fashion 1920s-1960s (Archived Blog Posts)
• Vintage Fashion Designers (Archived Blog Posts)

Liz