On the Street: 1929 Fashionable Flappers

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oignWX3PdEe6Ft2Ek0wTCMSyb2GUu-amp0vNCisXR6c4jQvwCUucmtkkZMaMtL74Z-v1fihtpYdLeIyzHtxhSKmg7t-TvbX61diU4WWIuXH8qpJ-myafRSqpoImI80UV9o3J4cON1WKa/s1600/IMG_0927.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713699233915902930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oignWX3PdEe6Ft2Ek0wTCMSyb2GUu-amp0vNCisXR6c4jQvwCUucmtkkZMaMtL74Z-v1fihtpYdLeIyzHtxhSKmg7t-TvbX61diU4WWIuXH8qpJ-myafRSqpoImI80UV9o3J4cON1WKa/s400/IMG_0927.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 285px; height: 600px;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZfwq_2B_J7nOG8c3SrE6GYtCjtSZ65gt3I1p61YXsN17fiTNm2-tyXJ7MoS4aKsmrkDA2bfrCBIlM13Yfq__sN3ROKP_ze-CDKuhFD69BEGJISzZ6J09RTa9p_8urYXMuFZAxaysI80p/s1600/IMG_0926.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713699225991520338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYZfwq_2B_J7nOG8c3SrE6GYtCjtSZ65gt3I1p61YXsN17fiTNm2-tyXJ7MoS4aKsmrkDA2bfrCBIlM13Yfq__sN3ROKP_ze-CDKuhFD69BEGJISzZ6J09RTa9p_8urYXMuFZAxaysI80p/s400/IMG_0926.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 310px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X0kghJkvOnM/T0sjK55t5XI/AAAAAAAADA0/W5f72pxtjz0/s1600/IMG_0925.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713699222498174322" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-X0kghJkvOnM/T0sjK55t5XI/AAAAAAAADA0/W5f72pxtjz0/s400/IMG_0925.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J2eXuFQrHkg/T0sjKlYAb4I/AAAAAAAADAs/KekTUUygAIM/s1600/IMG_0924.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713699216988073858" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J2eXuFQrHkg/T0sjKlYAb4I/AAAAAAAADAs/KekTUUygAIM/s400/IMG_0924.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 600px;" /></a><br />You might think that current fashion bloggers invented 'street fashion' photos, but that's not so. These four photos were taken on the streets of New York to show current fashion trends in 1929.<br /><br />Top-Jacket suits of light weight wool. Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney is on the right.<br />Second- Printed dresses worn with felt hat and fox scarf<br />Third-Printed silk dress worn with tan hose and gloves and dark blue Bangkock hat with fox scarf<br />Bottom-Printed silk crepe dress with fluttering scarf collar, layered skirt and draped bodice, worn with black patent pumps and a finely woven straw ballibuntal hat from the Philippines.<br /> <br />,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">This is third in a series of blog posts on women's fashions from 1929, in celebration of "The Artist".<br />Most illustrations come from the magazine "Fashionable Dress", August 1929.</span>

On the Street: 1929 Fashionable Flappers

You might think that current fashion bloggers invented 'street fashion' photos, but that's not so. These four photos were taken...

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1929 Hairstyles

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicL14986FI8jA8Oh6mhTGe7YegTJ-hq7Tx5AlZVzlHuiDi_PQ_nwphFA9OQ8qjVdkNaTHDzeQ4yQPx1eypxNyhQZJApuEbZYmcxb0aVLDeuN9M5ABW8T7r_Vf0YVphazCRTqSqL5SVsrY7/s1600/bob+hair.1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713697487662169106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicL14986FI8jA8Oh6mhTGe7YegTJ-hq7Tx5AlZVzlHuiDi_PQ_nwphFA9OQ8qjVdkNaTHDzeQ4yQPx1eypxNyhQZJApuEbZYmcxb0aVLDeuN9M5ABW8T7r_Vf0YVphazCRTqSqL5SVsrY7/s400/bob+hair.1.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 278px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT4lPLC8jdA-p4FQLYKL-XPG8iMr8SEM6ZcLsLP450C76maDal3m8mE6hDF1BbqItInX1Z9uYsiqQ7vI4ZyDLCx5EMIvcX3ZFjJTq4HA0OPqp9wP8ee4eskgu6q0J8HrgtCoeMKYeioFZU/s1600/bob+hair.2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713697488901519378" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT4lPLC8jdA-p4FQLYKL-XPG8iMr8SEM6ZcLsLP450C76maDal3m8mE6hDF1BbqItInX1Z9uYsiqQ7vI4ZyDLCx5EMIvcX3ZFjJTq4HA0OPqp9wP8ee4eskgu6q0J8HrgtCoeMKYeioFZU/s400/bob+hair.2.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 276px; height: 400px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZGznYogXqiqMWqw7RnxNruxzptyrLEazlEXT0zds8LekTJeF9gKREKtKHPfNPMHgrvnd_xS4B2ZmaXOG7LDxB7hz5NFlE8B-FfJvR8MYX137NZdcHUBs2W_M-iT7M7M6IGR3FTRIB5Wm/s1600/IMG_0903.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713697489963909698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZGznYogXqiqMWqw7RnxNruxzptyrLEazlEXT0zds8LekTJeF9gKREKtKHPfNPMHgrvnd_xS4B2ZmaXOG7LDxB7hz5NFlE8B-FfJvR8MYX137NZdcHUBs2W_M-iT7M7M6IGR3FTRIB5Wm/s400/IMG_0903.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 360px;" /></a><br /><br />Apparently hairstyles were changing in the summer of 1929. These illustrations appear in an article titled "the Twilight of the Bob: Longer hair ascends into the limelight". <br /><br />On this topic, the author gives pointers for growing hair longer from the shorter length bob. Length is important, especially in the back. She suggests getting a perm, since fashion was moving in a wavey direction as these drawings show.<br /><br />,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">This is the second post in a series on women's fashions from 1929, in celebration of "The Artist" film.<br />Most images appear in a magazine from that year titled "Fashionable Dress"</span>

1929 Hairstyles

Apparently hairstyles were changing in the summer of 1929. These illustrations appear in an article titled "the Twilight of the Bob: L...

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Flapper Fashions: 1929

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4_uEKQ0vidZRqURn1cfdyoNk6ntMCHJvW_k6XMR-9bMVrd6N1XvNxCw4vVobXCmkhuEaBa6pxmdOSBF701LNNFARiH8AxXbQeEJR9zoBe4sCzm_Twhr84TScjYEqPvfrtl5tfFg-syOo/s1600/IMG_0899.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713680560503100018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA4_uEKQ0vidZRqURn1cfdyoNk6ntMCHJvW_k6XMR-9bMVrd6N1XvNxCw4vVobXCmkhuEaBa6pxmdOSBF701LNNFARiH8AxXbQeEJR9zoBe4sCzm_Twhr84TScjYEqPvfrtl5tfFg-syOo/s400/IMG_0899.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 600px;" /></a><br />With the great success of "The Artist" at the Academy Awards tonight, I thought it perfect timing to spend a week looking into fashions from that era. To be specific, 1929. This wonderful fashion magazine, "Fashionable Dress" showcases mid-summer fashions for August. <br /><br />It also seems appropriate to take a look at real actresses from that year. What did they really look like? How did they wear the current trends?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32RjpBdNt7FCNU7NsbDa1VYMBXo4FXtjQ_30B8J5IlrAdbQ8DGXGPreZGWBNQ6S52y8FKVtbkTIGhBs5gk8mXT1KXmY3QIoATCmHf5H29GGcu_73hY9J4jXVdP8jeWg_N9z7k-HjdvYIQ/s1600/IMG_0904.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713681467085887922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj32RjpBdNt7FCNU7NsbDa1VYMBXo4FXtjQ_30B8J5IlrAdbQ8DGXGPreZGWBNQ6S52y8FKVtbkTIGhBs5gk8mXT1KXmY3QIoATCmHf5H29GGcu_73hY9J4jXVdP8jeWg_N9z7k-HjdvYIQ/s400/IMG_0904.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 500px;" /></a>This is Helen Mencken, and she wears a two piece frock edged in scallops. Her cloche hat is pulled down to her eyebrows, which is what we should expect. Both a stage and film actress, she had married Humphrey Bogart in 1926, but divorced him a year later.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO8NQA1IFkkq3e00gouADFiQsWyQ8oOeK5vmjCmKfvpq6d2145pwp7EoQQd-rzx4MzX64AB24p44Vp-7wmMg6_Vm-Fy_BEGmG7oi5lu27ZALti0uwnBQtfrvhQM0ybiJLIikf4hjcNf85/s1600/IMG_0906.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713681476861384594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaO8NQA1IFkkq3e00gouADFiQsWyQ8oOeK5vmjCmKfvpq6d2145pwp7EoQQd-rzx4MzX64AB24p44Vp-7wmMg6_Vm-Fy_BEGmG7oi5lu27ZALti0uwnBQtfrvhQM0ybiJLIikf4hjcNf85/s400/IMG_0906.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 255px; height: 600px;" /></a>Next is Peggy Bancroft, from "Whoopee". She is wearing a youthful afternoon frock with lace and georgette. Notice how the hem line is uneven, not unlike our current hem line trends. If you look closely at her, you'll notice she has a spit curl in the center of her forehead.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9wOkw8tHS3IITWf2eeat4Sg8z1c4_Qi7XzyXn-qJe6ssY66rt3NkeGqNe0B1qksiqmeq28vvZjGdCidbdKhd10qYKo_dkq-wWzdMTewH9Af88KmwJ1xGv4q5gOVOijZep7F64rAUsdAVJ/s1600/IMG_0907.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713681470767463938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9wOkw8tHS3IITWf2eeat4Sg8z1c4_Qi7XzyXn-qJe6ssY66rt3NkeGqNe0B1qksiqmeq28vvZjGdCidbdKhd10qYKo_dkq-wWzdMTewH9Af88KmwJ1xGv4q5gOVOijZep7F64rAUsdAVJ/s400/IMG_0907.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 600px;" /></a>Leneta Lane is our third actress from "Congratulations". Her ensemble was designed by "Joseph". It is an aquamarine crepe coat with wide collar.

Flapper Fashions: 1929

With the great success of "The Artist" at the Academy Awards tonight, I thought it perfect timing to spend a week looking into fas...

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Pinterest.com/pintuckstyle

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPj2FGd62qGoz1WloT0M6ei5J5BpT2f7m2Ia21fgEoj-Fj2RJh3xYPvbNT-7lg4OYW30K-Llu2dVPkoPxNERf4M3rZnsvt6QtjO-ssnO_30c9IO3wKyKOqFcSLkBm3RPI2MMx-rwaTHNiT/s1600/IMG_6020.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713296385561450994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPj2FGd62qGoz1WloT0M6ei5J5BpT2f7m2Ia21fgEoj-Fj2RJh3xYPvbNT-7lg4OYW30K-Llu2dVPkoPxNERf4M3rZnsvt6QtjO-ssnO_30c9IO3wKyKOqFcSLkBm3RPI2MMx-rwaTHNiT/s400/IMG_6020.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 397px; height: 400px;" /></a><br />Miss Polka Dots: What? You don't have a Pinterest page? Well, you need one now, since I am on the site and want to see what you are going to 'pin'!<br />...............................<br /><br />Yes, you can now find the photos that catch my eye, pinned to my boards.<br />Pinterest is exactly my kind of thing, so I have to budget my time with it,<br />or everything else would go neglected! <br /><br />I'm "pintuckstyle" : http://pinterest.com/pintuckstyle/<br />or<br />Link on over <a href=" http://pinterest.com/pintuckstyle/">HERE</a><br /><br />...............................<br />p.s.<br />When we pin a photo, let's all try to find the original website for the photo,<br />so the label is true to the source, OK?

Pinterest.com/pintuckstyle

Miss Polka Dots: What? You don't have a Pinterest page? Well, you need one now, since I am on the site and want to see what you are go...

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New Look Era : Dress Pattern, McCall's 7719

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2Xq985ATulB3iHKUnagaYAE9EmfXYrEs_6cB4bokSX0mkEl0IKK9oeqRHHHqUkxLC8UfH5r331ZNYYX52zZE6T_DfCAlfvQFgn2vK-0btGFrc8eXLA92LKlB3P2qK0qMR94shax0OOC7/s1600/IMG_6013.JPG"><img alt="McCalls 7719" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712383150900128306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ2Xq985ATulB3iHKUnagaYAE9EmfXYrEs_6cB4bokSX0mkEl0IKK9oeqRHHHqUkxLC8UfH5r331ZNYYX52zZE6T_DfCAlfvQFgn2vK-0btGFrc8eXLA92LKlB3P2qK0qMR94shax0OOC7/s400/IMG_6013.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 600px;" /></a>This is the cover art from vintage sewing pattern: McCall's 7719. It's probably from the late 1940's or early 1950's, judging by the skirt silhouette and length. The dress has a stylish back fullness, yet the front view is slender, and that's so typical of the era. <br /><br />The bodice front detail seam lines and stitching are sexy yet oddly tailored looking. It's like the designer super-imposed a ball gown bodice onto a dress front. The shoulders do seem a big structured, a hold out from the previous silhouette?<br /> <br />My personal checklist for the "New Look" post WWII era:<br /><br />--turned up collar <br />--turned back cuffs<br />--hip flange pockets<br />--pointed corners: winged collar, pockets and cuffs<br />--back fullness<br />--skirt length to mid-calf<br />--new short hairstyle and small earrings<br />--new small hat<br />--moderate heeled pumps

New Look Era : Dress Pattern, McCall's 7719

This is the cover art from vintage sewing pattern: McCall's 7719. It's probably from the late 1940's or early 1950's, judgi...

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Downton Abbey: Paper Dolls (!)

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvbKL-5bmEl4T46mObiN1cYTL2404tl-wZ8TUdW-A2HsVjR0KZPoOdG2r0jfoWkseUP5KeR5NHpMyk_mnXDSRWNfuORAvawctrzNhpPWf9S6FoqmTpQb0uw-Udv-ShRrFOnnFBfgyaVHq/s1600/Slide2.JPG"><img alt="Downton Abben paper dolls" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712372819392200034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfvbKL-5bmEl4T46mObiN1cYTL2404tl-wZ8TUdW-A2HsVjR0KZPoOdG2r0jfoWkseUP5KeR5NHpMyk_mnXDSRWNfuORAvawctrzNhpPWf9S6FoqmTpQb0uw-Udv-ShRrFOnnFBfgyaVHq/s400/Slide2.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 385px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNiThwpRx2vSEBFqyDoHGPawKvXj16ARlrqUvVDDVntcucEWoWB0m3nFolDaxN45wmgLAzGnRK2mzlat_TJUHMPv0HwJ4HmotwUTDVqf9HvtfGrqNyI_ryNE0LessSajx3RWZPLulO5bJ/s1600/Slide1.JPG"><img alt="Downton Abbey paper dolls" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712372813880592258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFNiThwpRx2vSEBFqyDoHGPawKvXj16ARlrqUvVDDVntcucEWoWB0m3nFolDaxN45wmgLAzGnRK2mzlat_TJUHMPv0HwJ4HmotwUTDVqf9HvtfGrqNyI_ryNE0LessSajx3RWZPLulO5bJ/s400/Slide1.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 385px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmujxHPjUwY1Zp1CGR4G7l86VCqM78moxn-GHX1XvGWZdfqW_lBpdXcwCxOuQpspchmnp4alLcZpGNxhci1XRP8_rJn8FYwCewT20P_Oyo_8lc_wxa2sKT710NaTrB2jiEjZwl1dmoKF2/s1600/Slide3.JPG"><img alt="Kyle Hilton paper dolls" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712372833999456530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVmujxHPjUwY1Zp1CGR4G7l86VCqM78moxn-GHX1XvGWZdfqW_lBpdXcwCxOuQpspchmnp4alLcZpGNxhci1XRP8_rJn8FYwCewT20P_Oyo_8lc_wxa2sKT710NaTrB2jiEjZwl1dmoKF2/s400/Slide3.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 385px;" /></a>Yes, ironic profiles of the ever popular "Downton Abbey" crew are now available as paper dolls, to down load and print up for your own. <br /><br />Imagine how great your office will look, once you have posted a few of these eye catching pages on your bulletin board. They are available at Vulture.com <a href=" http://www.vulture.com/2012/02/print-out-vultures-downton-abbey-paper-dolls.html">HERE</a>. <br /><br />These terrific illustrations are by the talented Kyle Hilton, who has profiled quite a few fictional TV characters. To see more of his work, just do a quick 'images.google.com' search under his name and you will be treated to more fun TV characters as paper doll pages with a touch of irony.

Downton Abbey: Paper Dolls (!)

Yes, ironic profiles of the ever popular "Downton Abbey" crew are now available as paper dolls, to down load and print up for your...

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Dress Patterns for Beginners: Easy to Fit and Sew

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBbXUGzQV78214SqKjfkNzGZfG_xvwHxW8ztkWGCwBKs5NLdOkqTR48sYYcUhIeyakmF_B0vypd8REOzgrGEFbi2U5FQ1FcjHrGwZS9sVGv1HpSNVonVOALscrPo7PC5EqJ7fFqM_D0ww/s1600/Slide7.JPG"><img alt="McCall's 3129 " border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710141224015581954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLBbXUGzQV78214SqKjfkNzGZfG_xvwHxW8ztkWGCwBKs5NLdOkqTR48sYYcUhIeyakmF_B0vypd8REOzgrGEFbi2U5FQ1FcjHrGwZS9sVGv1HpSNVonVOALscrPo7PC5EqJ7fFqM_D0ww/s400/Slide7.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a>This is the third part in a series on easy to sew dress patterns. This post looks at a princess pattern that can be easily fit using gingham. The second pattern has mock sleeves for a fast and easy to sew dress style.<br /><br />In locating dress patterns for curvey fit or larger sizes, McCall's 3129 shown above is a princess dress style that has a great 'fit and flare' silhouette. It skims the upper body, then flares out. If you want a short sleeves, you can have that too. <br /><br />Don't let the fact that this dress style has four main pattern pieces (front, side front, back, side back) stop you. Once you machine baste those pieces together, have a fitting and you will notice how nicely the final fit can be achieved. <br /><br />Fitting sample? If you really want to know: Woven, cotton gingham check is the preferred fabric to use when making a fitting sample. It is the easiest way to see if the grain line falls straight, that horizontals aren't crooked and that your pattern pieces are balanced. <br /><br />Fitting? Make it easy by adding to the dress pattern seam allowances at the side and back seam lines to equal 1" (+ 3/8"). That way you can play with the extra fabric if you need it. Once you get a good fit, go back and make marks on your paper pattern that match your new seamlines. This way your paper pattern can be used again.<br /><br />Fabric fitting pattern: <br />step 1: Add to pattern seam allowances so that side and back seams = 1" wide.<br />step 2: Use gingham for the fitting garment.<br />step 3: Cut only the dress, don't include facings or zipper.<br />step 4: Machine baste in the largest machine stitch using contrast color thread.<br />step 5: Wearing best bra and shoes, have a friend make the alterations. They can see the back, you can't.<br />step 6: After alterations are complete, remove dress and use pencil to mark the stitch line or pin line. Add horizontal marks on both sides of the seam line, so you know where to match up the pieces when you sew them together again.<br />step 7: Transfer the alterations back onto your paper pattern and add a new 5/8" seam allowance. <br />You could press your fabric pattern and use that. If you plan to do this, be sure fabric has been pre-shrunk. Also take care not to pull this fabric pattern off grain. Usually it's easiest to trace a new pattern from the fabric fitting pieces and add back the 5/8" seam allowances.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAyXmqZUKeSo0jqMho2hNF8DuqntttkZMe0-0_H8XSwzacij2aYeKbcIT3QP3tGxoVkkY4cuAk_wYvgBlnsaLw980JNXElMke7UpTS_oUVKkwKbuvKz1NxBteNwHrjWmWaZcF4ndmA1Hvi/s1600/Slide9.JPG"><img alt="Butterick 5211" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710140096989060002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAyXmqZUKeSo0jqMho2hNF8DuqntttkZMe0-0_H8XSwzacij2aYeKbcIT3QP3tGxoVkkY4cuAk_wYvgBlnsaLw980JNXElMke7UpTS_oUVKkwKbuvKz1NxBteNwHrjWmWaZcF4ndmA1Hvi/s400/Slide9.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a>Looking for something easier to fit and sew? With only two main pattern pieces (front and back), Butterick 5211 is easy to lay out, cut and sew. It is a nice summer look with a mock sleeves. This is a tunic dress that can be belted too. The extended shoulder make the sleeve look a breeze to sew (it's just a wider shoulder seam line). There is a 'key hole' slit in back, rather than a zipper. A zipper could be added instead. <br /><br />When choosing your fabric, both of these dresses will make up in simple woven summer fabrics very easily. The princess seam line style should have patterns of moderate size or smaller, so that the pieces don't cut up the print. The tunic dress would be great for larger, graphic or abstract prints.<br /><br />I hope this series has helped you find the dress pattern that best combines your sewing ability and figure type. With the right combination, sewing a dress can be easy to do!

Dress Patterns for Beginners: Easy to Fit and Sew

This is the third part in a series on easy to sew dress patterns. This post looks at a princess pattern that can be easily fit using gingha...

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Grey Gown: 1930's Fashion Illustration

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOfl6ptQRhv_j1jyiQjauCM_k2QGEstC59GXOqMfgPfQPxWVxB93zCKeEp14HImFTZ6THCJJ1g4UzsXyeT8H0UbWfn3M4W0kmM5IE-cHmkuQ79SAZxLTS7AmEqdC9ipt41puMVdusvxHM/s1600/IMG_9755.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708321154967450258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixOfl6ptQRhv_j1jyiQjauCM_k2QGEstC59GXOqMfgPfQPxWVxB93zCKeEp14HImFTZ6THCJJ1g4UzsXyeT8H0UbWfn3M4W0kmM5IE-cHmkuQ79SAZxLTS7AmEqdC9ipt41puMVdusvxHM/s400/IMG_9755.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><br />This gorgeous dress is probably chiffon (see the transparent hem?). I love the neckline too. Even now, this look could walk the red carpet and be one of the best looks.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Date and Artist unknown: from my archives</span>

Grey Gown: 1930's Fashion Illustration

This gorgeous dress is probably chiffon (see the transparent hem?). I love the neckline too. Even now, this look could walk the red carpet...

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Kim Brecklein: Illustrator of Vintage Fashion

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF47jtt37KpUtkhjFxGOSEKMaEYtPmPEbgIMbTZuZyhIzN0izrRkt8VCPCNW04ng3iDaCv0w8azvy1WLYbPZP6J3FwoA2i42RvmwjWHJr9T2awZ5p-QP6k7EVCFeF2pcYe5kkHd2Z402g/s1600/kim+brocklein.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5711302297905045954" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVF47jtt37KpUtkhjFxGOSEKMaEYtPmPEbgIMbTZuZyhIzN0izrRkt8VCPCNW04ng3iDaCv0w8azvy1WLYbPZP6J3FwoA2i42RvmwjWHJr9T2awZ5p-QP6k7EVCFeF2pcYe5kkHd2Z402g/s400/kim+brocklein.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 600px;" /></a>Are you familiar with the wonderful vintage fashion illustrations from Kim Brocklein? She can be easily overlooked, since her illustration niche is paper dolls. But anyone with an historical costume bent will be pleased and charmed by the intimate and accurate details in her the fashion drawings of paper dolls that span centuries.<br /><br />Her paper doll books are available on her website, with a larege selection to choose from.<br /><br />When you explore her great web site, don't miss the fashion dictionary. This details descriptions of apparel terms and each term is illustrated with a drawing from her archive.<br /><br />The illustration shown above is the cover for "Jazz Age Sisters". These are two paper dolls with ample wardrobes to keep any lover of 1920's fashion enthralled.<br /><br />The Kim Brecklein website is <a href=" http://www.kbreckpaperdoll.com/index.html">HERE</a>.<br />Her books are available on Lulu.com <a href=" http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/kmbreck">HERE</a>.<br />Find the THE DICTIONARY OF FASHION TERMS <a href=" http://www.kbreckpaperdoll.com/costume-dictionary-home.html">HERE</a>.

Kim Brecklein: Illustrator of Vintage Fashion

Are you familiar with the wonderful vintage fashion illustrations from Kim Brocklein? She can be easily overlooked, since her illustration ...

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Sheath Dress Patterns for Beginners: Easy to Sew, Part 2

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj329DkLK7hE5G9865TiWXPJ4awMEZIdfqzxywzsYrdjP7Zu6LWJeUt2yRx8d9vBcw35SuS3n1J0NF9QbaWW7U_5bPz97A_zt_6gojhdggmRnV0mkY_2wsOnDIxHnyYmdIV0bHFDOFvWO5O/s1600/Slide10.JPG"><img alt="Butterick 4386" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710125667875308498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj329DkLK7hE5G9865TiWXPJ4awMEZIdfqzxywzsYrdjP7Zu6LWJeUt2yRx8d9vBcw35SuS3n1J0NF9QbaWW7U_5bPz97A_zt_6gojhdggmRnV0mkY_2wsOnDIxHnyYmdIV0bHFDOFvWO5O/s400/Slide10.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a>This is a second post on easy to sew dress patterns. The first post looked at loose fitting shift dresses. After mastering the super easy shift style dress, it's time to sew a classic sheath dress.<br /><br />What makes the sheath dresses shown here easy to sew?<br /><br />1) no waistline seam, and they look great if belted<br /><br />2) dress skims the body, but isn't super tight or super loose (like a shift dress)<br /><br />3) no set in sleeve (but I found a great raglan sleeve instead)<br /><br />4) most are still 2 main pattern pieces: front and back<br /><br />The first dress shown above is Butterick 4386. This dress has a classic darted torso. It can be sewn into so many great styles, from a "little black dress" to a tropical summer dress, the fit will be slender. There is a back zip and hem vent. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Ljva0YMBdtjoM7XUKw7V2mUPA3yQKn6wWA4H9zGSRgm4l0-nsIL9BN2Q2GMkPKu9Sc3quQNfY1AtxHlxFOEBoDdkqm2XL2W3jlRXwHyvx3RGpadoIp9J9MOVJ2Ow5n3sFlOJ6aNIExgD/s1600/Slide6.JPG"><img alt="Butterick 5638" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710124981212985506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Ljva0YMBdtjoM7XUKw7V2mUPA3yQKn6wWA4H9zGSRgm4l0-nsIL9BN2Q2GMkPKu9Sc3quQNfY1AtxHlxFOEBoDdkqm2XL2W3jlRXwHyvx3RGpadoIp9J9MOVJ2Ow5n3sFlOJ6aNIExgD/s400/Slide6.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a> Curvey fit? This is the best pattern style for getting a good fit. Butterick 5638 has well placed 'princess seam lines'. Those long seam lines provide an opportunity to fit the bustline, torso and hips. There are six seam lines to work with, and each one can be let in or out only a little bit to affect the fit.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzcXWWaa8-3XOWOv0XkiFw9hqCetkkjxW4vaqkWe1ykbdKtngz1BuoGLXEjQEGFrjv-JurjGNjyXmkqTD6heOJJ2zxifuUxJKndJuv5_HAo_9AOI_BFWN-QhKSekw8hg_Ghxif3bEYD5zw/s1600/Slide8.JPG"><img alt="Butterick 5277" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710124405297032946" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzcXWWaa8-3XOWOv0XkiFw9hqCetkkjxW4vaqkWe1ykbdKtngz1BuoGLXEjQEGFrjv-JurjGNjyXmkqTD6heOJJ2zxifuUxJKndJuv5_HAo_9AOI_BFWN-QhKSekw8hg_Ghxif3bEYD5zw/s400/Slide8.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a>Want Sleeves? Butterick 5277 is a short sleeved silhouette that is easy to sew, since raglan sleeves are used, rather than the more difficult 'set in' sleeve style. Long torso darts fit the body and there is a zipper down the back.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2s9DVVgrMMxuRuDTT-ywHfuBPGYpId5jVmq0NrFdDPfOwPZ9q_XOQlaM_t4hgIFjZmGQdVO0kMFmhT3hi9bVx-4AwGmuSqRWoaVt1HmWsk5U4cSGcU1Iv1JvPlLiw_x-n9CBUxBL1Kh-/s1600/Slide12.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710123254544304770" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2s9DVVgrMMxuRuDTT-ywHfuBPGYpId5jVmq0NrFdDPfOwPZ9q_XOQlaM_t4hgIFjZmGQdVO0kMFmhT3hi9bVx-4AwGmuSqRWoaVt1HmWsk5U4cSGcU1Iv1JvPlLiw_x-n9CBUxBL1Kh-/s400/Slide12.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a>For a looser fitting dress, here are two styles. New Look: View A is available in two patterns, 6049 and 6095 (they seem to be identical). This dress has back darts to create a smooth fit. Side seams create the torso fit, if you don't want a close fit across the midriff. There is an optional back zipper.<br /><br />New Look 6021, View B shows French darts. These are long tapered darts that fit the midriff nicely. French darts were popular during the 60's. This type of dart is also a good look if the fabric pattern is large and would be distorted by front darts or princess seam lines.<br /><br />Fabric selection: In addition to the simple cottons mentioned for shift dresses (quilting cottons, cotton gingham, woven cotton plaids and stripes), we can add stretch wovens to our list. Keep your stretch manageable, don't select anything too 'wiggley' and out of control. When using a stretch, lay out the fabric so the stretch goes around the body (not 'up and down' or it will bag at the rear!). <br /><br />Obviously, the classic sheath dress is a vintage look that an experienced sewist can whip up in almost any fabric, from wool flannel to brocade.<br /><br />Fittings are more essential with the semi-fitted sheath style. Plan to do a trial fit before sewing your final seam lines. I suggest when cutting to making 1" wide seam allowances down the side and back seams lines. This will give room to alter for fit.<br /><br />Slender fit: Look for slender darts. Don't take up extra width in the darts. Do your fitting from the side seams.<br /><br />Curvey fit: These darts are wider and may be shaped towards the dart point. This fit may also need side and back seam line adjustments. Traditionally, the back seam was cut 'on grain' or very straight, but now it is common to use that seam line to fit the rear nicely.<br /><br />Princess seam lines make curvey fittings much easier. Just distribute any alterations through the several seams, and you will notice that the fitting process is actually easy to achieve.<br /><br />Zipper: Take note to make your zipper seam allowance (the back seamline) 1" wide. You will be soooo happy you have the extra fabric when you sew in your zipper. It sure helps to have the extra width. <br /><br />Math: get a 1" wide seam allowance by adding 3/8" to your cutting line. Yes, you will have to draft that line onto your pattern tissue first, before you cut. <br /><br />When sewing a zipper, be sure to clean finish the fabric edges first, so the cut edge won't unravel and get into your zipper. I use an overlock seam or I zig-zag over the fabric edge to bind that over and prevent it from unraveling.<br /><br />Once you get the sewing of this dress style perfected, it could become your favorite: fast, great fit, and easy to sew.

Sheath Dress Patterns for Beginners: Easy to Sew, Part 2

This is a second post on easy to sew dress patterns. The first post looked at loose fitting shift dresses. After mastering the super easy ...

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President's Day: RBW fashion illustration, late 1930's

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifD4qIT-6PvsbP5G931RHu_1qkFZTPcfnVlH7K2nESlg1jjzoNoTlaKr8QDFmt_vSlWLPY2yb8A1DxITfR2sLK8Erk5lvPwV7YoVEJKJHuQuXwnG64qIuh994q0-xfPcFPH_ipl-ld-pVN/s1600/IMG_9752.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5703148464163746402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifD4qIT-6PvsbP5G931RHu_1qkFZTPcfnVlH7K2nESlg1jjzoNoTlaKr8QDFmt_vSlWLPY2yb8A1DxITfR2sLK8Erk5lvPwV7YoVEJKJHuQuXwnG64qIuh994q0-xfPcFPH_ipl-ld-pVN/s400/IMG_9752.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 460px; height: 600px;" /></a>This RBW (Count Rene Bouet-Willaumez) illustration from the late 1930's or 1940's has a patriotic flair. As an illustrator, he employed color washed emphasized with brush strokes to show the figure and fabric.<br /><br />The suit and dress shown are detailed with patch pockets that sport fold over top flaps with buttons. The suit coat has a fun back pocket that plays up the back interest seen in fashion during the late 1930's. The shoulders are broad, with sharp emphasis at the sleeve top. This was probably before the US went to war, since there seems to be excess fabric folds and a longer skirt length, and those would be restricted during the war years.<br /><br />Of special interest are the hats worn on the top or back of the head, they provide a fun and amusing detail to the overall outfit.

President's Day: RBW fashion illustration, late 1930's

This RBW (Count Rene Bouet-Willaumez) illustration from the late 1930's or 1940's has a patriotic flair. As an illustrator, he emplo...

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Pricing Fashion: Costing a New Shirt

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmF4ReveQQIVYsMGtv_MME1O6LqDBCu4nRQ6SWLNQZu-c1RnlzipQR08z6WbOuuZ9cSZdA3P-_5eYcRL6lkylZqDlhsu3AQXmgojrIfUY26lgDcdQOEH6RcVbx2egj_kmtBtGceCFdZhX/s1600/Polo.Shirt.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708340517257294610" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmF4ReveQQIVYsMGtv_MME1O6LqDBCu4nRQ6SWLNQZu-c1RnlzipQR08z6WbOuuZ9cSZdA3P-_5eYcRL6lkylZqDlhsu3AQXmgojrIfUY26lgDcdQOEH6RcVbx2egj_kmtBtGceCFdZhX/s400/Polo.Shirt.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 378px;" /></a><br />The Wall Street Journal recently ran an article that detailed the journey one new fashion start-up went through to produce their initial product: a polo shirt. What they found were costs that resulted in a $155 price tag.<br /><br />The new business owners are Katherine and Jared MacLane, both entered the manufacturing arena after sufficient experience in retail. It was their goal to create a company that offered the most perfect polo shirt: in fit, style, comfort and performance.<br /><br />The article follows their journey to source the best textile, trims and labor to produce their design. This wasn't easy, as simple cotton became expensive cotton, and performance issues were many in the selection of that textile and the trims to put on it. Would you believe that the knit cotton yardage they wanted was $9.00 per yard, and mother of pearl buttons were $1.00 each? Clearly, adaptions had to be made.<br /><br />Another hurdle was locating a manufacture in the U.S. This turned out to have its own barriers to entry. After that were the little details, hang tags, garment tags and packaging: each one requiring costs beyond what you might imagine.<br /><br />As for that $155 price tag: The cost to actually produce the top was $29.57, with labor costs just a fraction over $11. The retail price is a bit more than double that, $65. The profits are used to cover other expenses, such as marketing, shipping, product development and the owner's salaries. The retail store more than doubled that cost to cover their expenses, so the final price the consumer pays is $155.<br /><br />Right now, fashion is an easy 'whipping' child for several groups who feel their viewpoint is politically correct. There is the 'why is fashion so poorly made?' group, and the 'Why can't I find ____ made in the US?' and finally 'Fashion is so overpriced, those designers are making huge profits' group. <br /><br />If anything, this article dispels any notions of grandeur on the part of the higher priced manufacturer. Good quality materials, local labor, manufacturing and retail have their costs. The consumer has recently been treated to apparel at costs far below any in the history of the peopled world. With this has come an expectation that everything should reflect this cost downturn.<br /><br />Part of turning around the consumer's way of thinking, along with their buying habits, is educating them to see that US made products will cost more. Having them accept that reality is another thing entirely! As a start, this article is a great intro to costing and product pricing.<br /><br />The full Wall Street Journal article, "Polo Puzzle: What Goes Into a $155 Price Tag?", Feb. 2, 2012 by Christina Brinkley is <a href=" http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204652904577195252388913754.html?KEYWORDS=Atlanta ">HERE</a>

Pricing Fashion: Costing a New Shirt

The Wall Street Journal recently ran an article that detailed the journey one new fashion start-up went through to produce their initial pro...

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70's Summery Dresses: on Etsy

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNUHpbUWO27YI2joB99b4VrSMWjsEqiAeC9TLnKOh8oc5p2xtrkAvs75rqlneXydSeeE1fi1JDdSgw7C45G64rEtV0pd-qt03AN-a6Z_t326hAcfZhE5auFu8ughF34R1IfGVEfYqao7zM/s1600/IMG_5764.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710331970273857074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNUHpbUWO27YI2joB99b4VrSMWjsEqiAeC9TLnKOh8oc5p2xtrkAvs75rqlneXydSeeE1fi1JDdSgw7C45G64rEtV0pd-qt03AN-a6Z_t326hAcfZhE5auFu8ughF34R1IfGVEfYqao7zM/s400/IMG_5764.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JDlNZpyiSM6kxHNJ_HKCAmV2iai1IgR-a2_yWj5Pba_wN631K5VYlicgAMQ5WN0mmB4DYgXMFr3R9bmBboojbaubxlRU5mHSg5OpQ1dC_MY_GcgdLbLe8Rj3KEaTAst6YYSwIEJ9IEKx/s1600/IMG_5802.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710331966877019202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JDlNZpyiSM6kxHNJ_HKCAmV2iai1IgR-a2_yWj5Pba_wN631K5VYlicgAMQ5WN0mmB4DYgXMFr3R9bmBboojbaubxlRU5mHSg5OpQ1dC_MY_GcgdLbLe8Rj3KEaTAst6YYSwIEJ9IEKx/s400/IMG_5802.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmakPMpN9vkfU23tVtdMSUyUpsGvolppSerKkUMNjEVSHIf1wIMLDEFRvmLk70wAkYuc041XQvg2QtMKukGpEEZk1R06l329VATJ9v7dH_BznHgMlYLsxKl74p-lWzVR3_yK4t3KrVbrI_/s1600/IMG_5793.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710331960938330994" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmakPMpN9vkfU23tVtdMSUyUpsGvolppSerKkUMNjEVSHIf1wIMLDEFRvmLk70wAkYuc041XQvg2QtMKukGpEEZk1R06l329VATJ9v7dH_BznHgMlYLsxKl74p-lWzVR3_yK4t3KrVbrI_/s400/IMG_5793.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdiJFLoVHZd3Epw6zzF6kOaEhqEBkgrXoBSOvnkPv4RQfKpkU2xwNLre1LG3tmhvHUEfAD72aLyamccYKtPeV5MrFBp1azVov1FW2whY_FuGE3th9quU7YzmqqnfRhKsJBf9od0JfFaco/s1600/IMG_6653.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710331956013004642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFdiJFLoVHZd3Epw6zzF6kOaEhqEBkgrXoBSOvnkPv4RQfKpkU2xwNLre1LG3tmhvHUEfAD72aLyamccYKtPeV5MrFBp1azVov1FW2whY_FuGE3th9quU7YzmqqnfRhKsJBf9od0JfFaco/s400/IMG_6653.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 450px; height: 600px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8oOMspVxjWOn4c-vBDFTR8cXLSEyUAYTHMYntczgTssBs0dXCkCZtyMQBkV__swhSV0kSacThTXblmqtHGHMyQl0RPzbjWgz2Ds8i6F9JhpIRP2VmJOk14jDt7j8bYiyWeQsRdm-ZorP/s1600/IMG_2281.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710331977084846002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu8oOMspVxjWOn4c-vBDFTR8cXLSEyUAYTHMYntczgTssBs0dXCkCZtyMQBkV__swhSV0kSacThTXblmqtHGHMyQl0RPzbjWgz2Ds8i6F9JhpIRP2VmJOk14jDt7j8bYiyWeQsRdm-ZorP/s400/IMG_2281.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 370px; height: 600px;" /></a>Don't you just love these prom and party dresses from the 1970's? What's better than the colorful prints, patterns, ruffles and lace? The four dresses here are available at my shop: Pintuck Style on Etsy, in case you have a need for something romantic now that Spring is on the horizon (Where I'm at, it's in full swing!)<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">(you can click on the images at the right to get there directly)</span>

70's Summery Dresses: on Etsy

Don't you just love these prom and party dresses from the 1970's? What's better than the colorful prints, patterns, ruffles and...

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Mustard and Ketchup: an Etsy Treasury

<h2 style=" font-size:16px; font-family:sans-serif; margin-left: 10px; "> <a style=" color:#333333; text-decoration: none; " onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/MTExMjI0MDV8MjE5NjAxOTg3Ng"> 'you and me are like mustard and ketchup.' </a> by <a style=" color:#333333; text-decoration: none; " onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'" href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Woolbridge"> Woolbridge </a> </h2> <h2 style=" font-size:16px; font-family:sans-serif; margin-left: 10px; "> Happy Anniversary to a brilliant Etsy team! <br> </h2> <table style=" border-spacing: 8px; width:auto; border-collapse: separate; line-height:19px; "> <tbody><tr> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93053727" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.312183375.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/93053727" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> LOLLIPOP: red wall mount mai... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PIGandFiSH" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> PIGandFiSH </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $98.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70481491" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.228995554.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70481491" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Bird Stack Letterpress Bambo... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sweetharvey" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> sweetharvey </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $18.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67683791" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.216329978.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67683791" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Poetry in Carmine Red / Plea... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bayanhippo" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> bayanhippo </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $44.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80419264" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.266184394.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/80419264" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Mockingbird Paperweight Glas... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/redtilestudio" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> redtilestudio </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $25.00 </div> </td> </tr> <tr><td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89999110" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.300954567.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89999110" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> 1950s dress - vintage 1950&#... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Thrush" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> Thrush </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $86.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79596748" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.251478471.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79596748" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Valentine Red Cup Cozy, Knit... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/natalya1905" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> natalya1905 </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $17.50 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83037572" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.275385660.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/83037572" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Single Air Plant Pod - Musta... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/seaandasters" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> seaandasters </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $11.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85346386" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.283633484.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/85346386" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Mustard Yellow Felt Flower P... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JillianReneDecor" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> JillianReneDec... </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $48.00 </div> </td> </tr> <tr><td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76869861" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_170x135.253980898.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/76869861" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Vintage Modern Design Classi... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/CaptainCat" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> CaptainCat </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $85.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92288947" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.309374033.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92288947" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Honey Mustard Dress - Vintag... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/zwzzy" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> zwzzy </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $75.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74439808" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.262436821.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74439808" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Postcard Set - Paris Postcar... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/littlebrownpen" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> littlebrownpen </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $15.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63054968" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.197115830.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63054968" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Camera Shirt Organic Long Sl... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/WrenWillow" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> WrenWillow </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $24.00 </div> </td> </tr> <tr><td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64984122" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.204508913.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64984122" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Whale Tissue Holder - Yellow... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/gnomesweeeetgnome" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> gnomesweeeetgn... </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $39.99 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90731173" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_170x135.303612733.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/90731173" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> 1960s Dress Sheath, Mad Men ... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/pintuckstyle" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> pintuckstyle </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $65.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92331835" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.182163794.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92331835" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> SAMPLE SALE Long Cable Cardi... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/knitsbyjessie" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> knitsbyjessie </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $150.00 </div> </td> <td style=" border:1px solid #ECECEC; padding: 6px; text-align:left; " height="170px" width="170px"> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92272020" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <img src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.310744538.jpg" style=" border:none; padding:0px; " width="170px"> <br> </a> <a style=" text-decoration: none; " href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/92272020" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> <span style=" color:#666666; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; "> Collectible Roberts R200 Tra... </span> </a> <br> <div style=" font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:left; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> <a style=" text-decoration: none; color:#B2B2B2; " href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/vintageandloved" onmouseover="this.style.textDecoration='underline'" onmouseout="this.style.textDecoration='none'"> vintageandlove... </a> </div> <div style=" color:#78C042; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; float:right; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; "> $65.00 </div> </td> </tr> </tbody></table> <p style=" color:#B2B2B2; font-size:10px; font-family:sans-serif; margin-left: 10px; "> <a href="http://redrowstudio.com/tools/treasury.php"> Treasury tool </a> by <a href="http://redrowstudio.com">Red Row Studio</a>. </p> <br /><br />Say 'Hi' to my cute 60's red dress with gold brocade belt, she's in the bottom row!<br /> <span style="font-style:italic;">(p.s. click on anything here to see its listing on Etsy)</span>

Mustard and Ketchup: an Etsy Treasury

'you and me are like mustard and ketchup.' by ...

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Dress Patterns for Beginners: EASY to SEW

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8-d5QrgehgWYGXGEpsS0SezVscHPCpsm_lCTbgi8-s3RZ-Qu6SYYyVwdKyzjeDfAGrL4sV0Ab1jQFs5B4SxBII4DtloTrF3hyphenhyphencHkozp9ozVhWz-D-0Wzk0pFn7nO0Kx_buQkHHtTmaPN/s1600/Slide4.JPG"><img alt="easy to sew McCalls 6117" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708310647804543106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid8-d5QrgehgWYGXGEpsS0SezVscHPCpsm_lCTbgi8-s3RZ-Qu6SYYyVwdKyzjeDfAGrL4sV0Ab1jQFs5B4SxBII4DtloTrF3hyphenhyphencHkozp9ozVhWz-D-0Wzk0pFn7nO0Kx_buQkHHtTmaPN/s400/Slide4.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a>This is the first is a short series on sewing patterns that are EASY to sew or EASY for new sewists (beginners). Because these styles tend to be shift dresses (loose with bust darts) or "A" line in shape, they are perfect for summer. This is the season to best sew for warm weather, the timing is right to make one of these styles.<br /><br />What I look for when choosing an easy pattern are several elements that need to come together:<br /><br />1) seam lines: few seam lines to sew - just the side seams please!<br /><br />2) pattern pieces: two main pattern pieces - front and back<br /><br />3) darts: few darts - bust darts are fine<br /><br />4) zipper: nope!<br /><br />5) sleeves: nada!<br /><br />6) neckline: simple and round, I think facing is easier than bias edge, but that's me<br /><br />7) hemline: machine sewn? yes please<br /><br />8) fabric: smooth, medium weight cottons: these are easiest to sew - quilter's cottons, cotton gingham checks, cotton shirting plaids and stripes.<br /><br />Here's a few patterns that would be EASY for a newbie, or FAST for those with experience.<br /><br />Top View, McCalls 6117: The pattern above is probably the most complicated with the neckline "V" slash in front. It also has a center back seamline which will aid in getting a smoother back fit. But overall, it's a simple style.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93Wgdcq6excBUenRSG7IhS6GneYKZdyXXxKU23v-seOBqlMJjcRj-ZMwKJkxBdbucOR2oSHJcPz2T-0SWXc_3y2wfkPSPKq0fHp31yLWXjIAz4DuPwxQXWjO5Uvmir78N2IuvMJ_kFpyX/s1600/Slide1.JPG"><img alt="easy to sew dress" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708310646323298242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93Wgdcq6excBUenRSG7IhS6GneYKZdyXXxKU23v-seOBqlMJjcRj-ZMwKJkxBdbucOR2oSHJcPz2T-0SWXc_3y2wfkPSPKq0fHp31yLWXjIAz4DuPwxQXWjO5Uvmir78N2IuvMJ_kFpyX/s400/Slide1.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a><br />McCall's 9172: View D is sleeveless, optional dart or no dart, ‘relaxed fit’, neckline facing, pull over, large size range<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLOpHckYfaCtAhpSunH0qKOm93XXvUnh5N391kja7CVmKC2mciHGMDDbWTuxoru8keJgTiJp1H0IRNPtMtkJqPnA1rbjSFcHS6n9QtkmU9hMI9z_IHBSBMVZ_vQreVsEy-FArg01dtadq/s1600/Slide11.JPG"><img alt="Easy Palmer Pletch McCalls 6355" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708310641780464562" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizLOpHckYfaCtAhpSunH0qKOm93XXvUnh5N391kja7CVmKC2mciHGMDDbWTuxoru8keJgTiJp1H0IRNPtMtkJqPnA1rbjSFcHS6n9QtkmU9hMI9z_IHBSBMVZ_vQreVsEy-FArg01dtadq/s400/Slide11.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a><br />McCall's 6355: basic shift pattern by Palmer/Pletch, neck binding, optional fitting darts. This pattern has options for creating a good fit.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOO_aENmQUehwxOLB_L2OFLbd0AR4B3dvUQoZwBw932ThJf7ksv3m8pJNdwpZ5u48lYRUnaWTNiodoItsojZpNmoBkj-AI93voSoJnKPX353bSHB48ew4eKT3rK52VtqGRjIdojdWs8ppV/s1600/Slide3.JPG"><img alt="easy to sew McCalls 6102" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708310633837460594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOO_aENmQUehwxOLB_L2OFLbd0AR4B3dvUQoZwBw932ThJf7ksv3m8pJNdwpZ5u48lYRUnaWTNiodoItsojZpNmoBkj-AI93voSoJnKPX353bSHB48ew4eKT3rK52VtqGRjIdojdWs8ppV/s400/Slide3.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a><br />McCalls 6102: View D, shift style, 2 bust darts, pull over, large size range, neckline facing<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bvn-WdPipcMykXIvsSggK80kdYAEdS9eCf4pd-YgTjDNgvmc_TeHGqJIbumfo82KiYtYgB5eF0GBR8IuJWjS4hk0vLkLXHqbPW3yIsvIIbi_ivo-JKlcHn2FOmYM11xqtcFEi2RioSSW/s1600/Slide5.JPG"><img alt="easy to sew McCalls 6465" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5708310636538557730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9bvn-WdPipcMykXIvsSggK80kdYAEdS9eCf4pd-YgTjDNgvmc_TeHGqJIbumfo82KiYtYgB5eF0GBR8IuJWjS4hk0vLkLXHqbPW3yIsvIIbi_ivo-JKlcHn2FOmYM11xqtcFEi2RioSSW/s400/Slide5.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 450px;" /></a><br />McCall's 6465: view E, slip over, sleeveless bias tape arm holes, loose A line shape<br /><br />Why Butterick and McCall's? I like their website format. At each pattern page, there is a clear, large view of the garment on a figure. Below this are line drawings (production flats) of the garment showing each seam line clearly. Fabric and notions are easy to read, and the yardage is there also. <br /><br />If you scroll down further, you will find the GARMENT MEASUREMENTS. This information can be compared with a similar garment you own and fit, so you know what the results will be. Use this to select hem width, hip and bustline ease (looseness). It is a great way to determine your pattern size, if you feel the size measurements may not be exactly your fit.

Dress Patterns for Beginners: EASY to SEW

This is the first is a short series on sewing patterns that are EASY to sew or EASY for new sewists (beginners). Because these styles tend ...

Read more »