This is a rare Great Depression-era garment. Vanta Self-Help garments were designed to help children gain independence in dressing. The vibrant Red Heart label was a unique feature, helping children easily identify if the garment was inside out and which side was the front and back.
This cool cotton vest is rib-knit to retain its shape, with tubular armholes and neck for longer wear. A drawstring at the neck adds versatility and comfort.
Label: Vanta Self Help (Red Heart) 14
Though tagged as a vintage girls' size 14, this piece will also fit a petite X-Small/0 young adult (as shown on an adult mannequin). Based on the measurements, it likely fits closer to a modern girl's size 6-8 or size 8-10, offering a looser or slightly oversized fit, depending on the desired style. Please continue reading for more details on the measurements.
Size and Fit:
This vintage girls’ tank undershirt is tagged as a vintage size 14, but the actual measurements suggest it may fit differently than modern sizing.
Measurements taken flat and not stretched, doubled where appropriate:
Bust: 26" (The adult mannequin has a 32" bust, so there is ample stretch in the chest)
Waist: 28"
Sweep/Hem: 32"
Overall length: 24 inches
Care and Condition:
Machine wash warm with like colors. Tumble dry on low. Please note that there are multiple stains and significant wear on the straps, which are visible in the images. We recommend reviewing the photos for a closer look at the condition.
A bit more history about Vanta:
Vanta was a brand produced by Earnshaw Knitting Mills, founded in 1911, and initially offered exclusively through mail order. The company operated out of 148 California Street in Newton, MA, and was led by George Frederick Earnshaw. Born on July 1, 1871, in West Roxbury, MA, Earnshaw attended Boston Latin School. In 1905, he married Margaret Wright from Lowell, MA, and they had six children. In 1911, Earnshaw relocated to Chicago to establish the Earnshaw Knitting Company, which began producing layette items under the Vanta label. The company’s mission was to create safer clothing for children by eliminating pins and buttons. In 1912, Earnshaw patented his “twistless tape,” a key innovation for his line.
By 1922, Earnshaw moved the company’s operations to Newton, MA, where it grew rapidly, employing over 1,000 workers. He stepped down as president in 1928 and took on the role of publisher for Earnshaw's Magazine (formerly The Infants' Department). In 1938, Earnshaw introduced the concept of "National Children's Week" to further promote his brand.
Earnshaw passed away on October 1, 1940, at the age of 69. Since then, the original knitting mill building has been demolished, and Vanta baby products are no longer in production or available for purchase.
This piece offers a wonderful glimpse into a past era, designed with both function and durability in mind. Perfect for textile collectors or anyone looking to add a truly unique to their wardrobe.
Love it ♡
Get it ☆
Get Lucky 💋 Vintage
