Marion Donaldson is a name that resonates with those who cherish the vibrant fashion of the mid-20th century, particularly the iconic styles that defined Swinging London in the 1960s. Established in 1966 by the enterprising couple David and Marion Donaldson, the brand quickly became synonymous with bringing the bold, eclectic fashion of London to Glasgow, Scotland. What began as a modest venture with a mere £50 investment soon blossomed into a major fashion enterprise, producing a thousand garments per week and becoming a staple in prestigious stores across the UK, including the legendary Liberty of London.

Throughout its 33 years of operation, Marion Donaldson not only thrived but also became a symbol of the resilience and creativity within the British fashion industry. As the company grew, it maintained a close relationship with Liberty, often using their fabrics to craft garments that were both fashionable and reflective of the times. This partnership was a testament to the Donaldsons’ commitment to quality and their ability to adapt to the ever-changing fashion landscape. Their designs, often adorned with the brand’s distinctive Art Nouveau labels, captured the spirit of the era, blending bold prints and luxurious fabrics with a distinctly Scottish flair.

The success of Marion Donaldson is even more remarkable when viewed against the backdrop of the broader challenges faced by the British fashion industry during this period. As many independent fashion houses struggled with the economic and social upheavals of the late 20th century, Marion Donaldson remained a beacon of innovation and adaptability. The brand’s ability to navigate the shifting tides of fashion while staying true to its roots in design and manufacturing highlights its importance not just as a fashion label, but as a key player in the history of British fashion. Today, the legacy of Marion Donaldson lives on, with vintage pieces highly sought after by collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.

The Story of Marion Donaldson

How to tell if Marion Donaldson is vintage from the logo

Marion Donaldson is a well-known fashion brand that has evolved over the years. One of the most effective ways to determine if a Marion Donaldson piece is vintage is by examining the logo. The logo designs have changed subtly over the years, reflecting the trends and artistic styles of their respective eras. Below is a guide to help you identify the vintage status of a Marion Donaldson item based on the logo.

1960s to now Marion Donaldson logo

• The logo from this era features a psychedelic and artistic design, which is characteristic of the 1960s.
• The font used is highly stylized with curved and interconnected letters, reflecting the bold, free-spirited fashion of the 1960s and 70s.
• The design is enclosed within a rounded, oblong shape that enhances the retro feel of the logo.
• The colors typically used are bold and contrasting, which further highlights the distinctiveness of this era’s design.
• This logo style has remained iconic and is associated with the brand’s vintage identity, making it a key indicator of vintage Marion Donaldson items.

1960s to now Marion Donaldson logo

How to tell if Marion Donaldson is vintage from the tags

Marion Donaldson, a brand synonymous with the vibrant and eclectic style of the 1960s through the 1990s, has undergone a fascinating evolution in its tag designs. From its early days, the tags reflected the era’s aesthetic with bold, ornate designs, and as time progressed, they became more refined while still retaining the brand’s signature flair. Identifying the era of a Marion Donaldson garment can often be done by examining the tag, with each decade having distinct characteristics.

Having trouble identifying vintage tags or labels? Upload a picture on our vintage tag identification page, and we’ll assist you!

1960s vintage Marion Donaldson tags

• Tags from the 1960s often feature a simple design with the brand’s name in a stylized, swirling font.
• The tags typically use earthy colors like brown and beige, reflecting the bohemian vibe of the era.
• Includes additional information such as “By David and Marion Donaldson” and “Made in Scotland.”
• Some tags from this era are printed on fabric, which has a softer, more worn appearance over time.

1960s Marion Donaldson tags

1970s vintage Marion Donaldson tags

• The 1970s tags continue with the ornate font but with a more elaborate background design, often using contrasting colors.
• Gold and purple combinations are prevalent, giving the tags a luxurious, vibrant look.
• Some tags include a secondary tag beneath, showing size indicators or care instructions.

1970s Marion Donaldson tags

1980s vintage Marion Donaldson tags

• In the 1980s, the tags become slightly more modern with darker colors such as black and deep purple, often paired with metallic gold threads.
• The font remains consistent with previous decades but is more prominently displayed against a contrasting background.
• These tags are usually more rectangular, with a sturdier fabric and a sharper, more defined logo.

1980s Marion Donaldson tags

1990s vintage Marion Donaldson tags

• The 1990s tags feature a more minimalist design while retaining the brand’s signature ornate font.
• The color palette shifts to a more monochromatic scheme, often using black and white combinations.
• Tags from this era are more streamlined, with cleaner lines and a less textured fabric compared to the previous decades.

1990s Marion Donaldson tags