Simplicity 6387: 1966 Sewing Pattern for Research & Inspiration

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23lVrU6PAJ0eBm_5mK_uxNxPn4eKnvrRvbrc7N0QUk2O5Uv5NhEYliHC3bAT-RosxECgzYSn9N8NNh3Q3ia0BKa_o9RKkS5QfLRN4PAKFO6BfFcKYWE1ZJmobiskrtTGQJMUyvpypySkm/s1600/IMG_4766.Simp.6387.pattern+cover..jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23lVrU6PAJ0eBm_5mK_uxNxPn4eKnvrRvbrc7N0QUk2O5Uv5NhEYliHC3bAT-RosxECgzYSn9N8NNh3Q3ia0BKa_o9RKkS5QfLRN4PAKFO6BfFcKYWE1ZJmobiskrtTGQJMUyvpypySkm/s640/IMG_4766.Simp.6387.pattern+cover..jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br /><br />Vintage Sewing Pattern: Simplicity 6387, date: 1966, item: Dress and Coat, size: half-size pattern <br /><br />This simple sewing pattern is the first in a series showing an historical or vintage commercial home sewing pattern envelope in detail. As part of an ongoing project of mine, I will be sharing pattern covers from my collection for research and design purposes. It is hoped that by posting these online, designers, collectors of vintage fashion, sewing patterns and periodicals may be able to use this information for dating apparel, photos and garments. The cover illustrations also provide examples of how this garment style would have been worn in its day, complete with accessories, makeup and hair style. <br /><br />BACK INFORMATION <br /><br />One-piece dress and coat in women's sizes and misses' and women's half-sizes: <br />Sleeveless dress with slightly lowered round neckline and back zipper has an A-line skirt. V.1 has self or purchased belt, Lined. V.2 has purchased belt, Lined coat with slightly lowered round neckline has below-elbow set-in sleeves. V.1 is top-stitched, V.2 has novelty braid trim. <br />Suggested fabric types--V.1 in cottons and blends: pique, linen, silks, synthetics and blends: brocades. V.1 coat also in lightweight wools and blends. V.2 dress and coat coat in lace, eyelet and sheers only. <br /><br />DETAIL PHOTOS <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeS8m4Wk7O9lBcd1SF0vsXoo60Boaa3ST2yvvMJG0-I82lxNNwaEoUSCpX4ptaCYAuI4qy5oz9nangjuKW-Dw0asccGaDoKJ9g2CAyOsMMsYW7Js3mf3J6YITyudE4HJjpR6CkQSxwfp7x/s1600/IMG_4767.Simp6387.CU.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="650" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeS8m4Wk7O9lBcd1SF0vsXoo60Boaa3ST2yvvMJG0-I82lxNNwaEoUSCpX4ptaCYAuI4qy5oz9nangjuKW-Dw0asccGaDoKJ9g2CAyOsMMsYW7Js3mf3J6YITyudE4HJjpR6CkQSxwfp7x/s640/IMG_4767.Simp6387.CU.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXQcCYDKd8MrZzNYvAEgmEZpzPQS4cBCyfdjvyT82iPGHv3Ysc7UNCyp9GEzWvZe_YsSDpXs_uWGDzJnN-qx4RCAqJ5TNRzJRKGXE8dOgsM7sC40DVXAK1gQEvigkPIGYXzkxZVWCRKgl/s1600/IMG_4768.Simp6387.coat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMXQcCYDKd8MrZzNYvAEgmEZpzPQS4cBCyfdjvyT82iPGHv3Ysc7UNCyp9GEzWvZe_YsSDpXs_uWGDzJnN-qx4RCAqJ5TNRzJRKGXE8dOgsM7sC40DVXAK1gQEvigkPIGYXzkxZVWCRKgl/s640/IMG_4768.Simp6387.coat.jpg" width="361" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvX1Burd-6bwcUdDxt79e7DofIY6a5ni7Sl-4pF3tBTV4fsbAtpe37cUy61xsmL4sxnzWVTVE3DFIjloQeBRvFU9eIRtU6JCrXfXa5Gr3qIF1qENbXmYadQNvUfwJi-mkhNhvOH7kYCDR6/s1600/IMG_4771.Simp6387.backflats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvX1Burd-6bwcUdDxt79e7DofIY6a5ni7Sl-4pF3tBTV4fsbAtpe37cUy61xsmL4sxnzWVTVE3DFIjloQeBRvFU9eIRtU6JCrXfXa5Gr3qIF1qENbXmYadQNvUfwJi-mkhNhvOH7kYCDR6/s640/IMG_4771.Simp6387.backflats.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xPMegxBsMbnOnpG7mYtMLX6W_3CCKTLF5dAYT7vZekjtvkbhfHGEUlgy3qa0CSwUFtomkbz9wmp6nD9WDyPpktO7mlhUXCGTWRBE8tUP_tXRktHdAcXt3XIGeoe44zIOfqHFTQCGKJeJ/s1600/IMG_4771.Simp6387.pattern+draft.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5xPMegxBsMbnOnpG7mYtMLX6W_3CCKTLF5dAYT7vZekjtvkbhfHGEUlgy3qa0CSwUFtomkbz9wmp6nD9WDyPpktO7mlhUXCGTWRBE8tUP_tXRktHdAcXt3XIGeoe44zIOfqHFTQCGKJeJ/s400/IMG_4771.Simp6387.pattern+draft.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><br />This pattern is available for purchase in my shop: <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/114494128/coat-dress-37-bust-easy-to-sew-pattern?ref=shop_home_active"><b>PintuckSew on Etsy</b></a>

Simplicity 6387: 1966 Sewing Pattern for Research & Inspiration

Vintage Sewing Pattern: Simplicity 6387, date: 1966, item: Dress and Coat, size: half-size pattern This simple sewing pattern is the first i...

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New Retro Dress Patterns from Butterick: 5920 & 5930

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEEpYN9dzGq6L5L1eny_MAMiTQPngf9EcRmTPlRgGOe6iiNK4ctiA1yKZltLOolR9FN1s0z4EXRAtjfYLQZbqnN46o7SUUS_NeaykS6O3xk2fJBB1U09a3-e8IYySG521rOd8t5wUKneQ/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheEEpYN9dzGq6L5L1eny_MAMiTQPngf9EcRmTPlRgGOe6iiNK4ctiA1yKZltLOolR9FN1s0z4EXRAtjfYLQZbqnN46o7SUUS_NeaykS6O3xk2fJBB1U09a3-e8IYySG521rOd8t5wUKneQ/s400/Butterick 5920" width="500" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBXrF0LiYpE2zjqGAEjndCNF04S8qH3_4c7aBE_yDDK7quT8j_9_x92RBw3g2sc_x7ufBFdPGphs9vAwTEE0_2Olhbjl4ZgQsaw9q5g6t-huEbxVtsD6l2IAKWewn95cH4FtN4dG1Czng/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="375" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqBXrF0LiYpE2zjqGAEjndCNF04S8qH3_4c7aBE_yDDK7quT8j_9_x92RBw3g2sc_x7ufBFdPGphs9vAwTEE0_2Olhbjl4ZgQsaw9q5g6t-huEbxVtsD6l2IAKWewn95cH4FtN4dG1Czng/s400/Butterick 5930" width="500" /></a> Have you seen the latest retro dress patterns from Butterick?  I especially love Butterick 5920 and 5930 for sewing vintage fashion styles .   These two dresses have great details and nice vintage silhouettes. What is even more fun? The model for pattern #5930 is a real girl with curves, so we get a chance to see what it will look like on many of us out here who sew for ourselves.<br /><br />When it comes to making alterations, I think that either bodice will modify easily without distorting the style.  Model #5920 is a very simple design with few pattern pieces.  The bodice is darted to fit, without sleeves or other details that might add more difficult details to the sewing process.  The skirt is 'A' line with a smooth back and gathers only in the front.  This is an easy skirt to modify into full gathers or other shapes.  This fitted bodice can be made to fit tight or loose, depending on your style.  I also think it would be adorable in a summer cotton such as gingham, cut short and sweet.<br /><br />The princess seamlines in the bodice of #5930 will help to create a great fit, regardless of the body type.  The gored skirt has fullness in the hem without the bulk of gathers at the waistline and hips, so it should be a very flattering design to wear. <br /><br />If you have an event this summer, these patterns could be what you are looking for!<br /><br /><br />

New Retro Dress Patterns from Butterick: 5920 & 5930

Have you seen the latest retro dress patterns from Butterick?  I especially love Butterick 5920 and 5930 for sewing vintage fashion styles...

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New Butterick Retro Patterns for Spring: 5748 and 5747

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrvu4PO5Wt7N-n5lSsnqp-QYKKwXDvFCbTFLLtOK2tOUO9WMd4XJI54AHitgTRjdAHhJs7_a3yDz_X7-57XmLTrlVp-IlTIWljFJMX4bcMv6AXFquQh8bWlwBaClpbhu-FyIe-aJm48u6/s1600/Butterick+5747.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716230179337642018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitrvu4PO5Wt7N-n5lSsnqp-QYKKwXDvFCbTFLLtOK2tOUO9WMd4XJI54AHitgTRjdAHhJs7_a3yDz_X7-57XmLTrlVp-IlTIWljFJMX4bcMv6AXFquQh8bWlwBaClpbhu-FyIe-aJm48u6/s400/Butterick+5747.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 470px; height: 500px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDVed9qBxaLlkWRSzWdoIW11wTPLmFbjLd0jEwDOW0mArjVhobhgJRG_-cf8i3yBBjrC9_KJsbTlZZDQB8LcUIef17HJVCVxnAqK6-xVcJ3ts2cPmDvaOYbPe2j-PQBwqg7KdjdF5in7R/s1600/Butterick+5747+pattern.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716230177971327698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDVed9qBxaLlkWRSzWdoIW11wTPLmFbjLd0jEwDOW0mArjVhobhgJRG_-cf8i3yBBjrC9_KJsbTlZZDQB8LcUIef17HJVCVxnAqK6-xVcJ3ts2cPmDvaOYbPe2j-PQBwqg7KdjdF5in7R/s400/Butterick+5747+pattern.gif" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 254px;" /></a>What we have here are the latest new "Retro" Butterick patterns out for spring. <br /><br />The first pattern, Butterick 5747, is from 1960, and has it comes with two great skirt options. We love the wide shawl collar with notches. This pattern should be easy to sew. It has only 4 main pattern pieces: bodice (front and back) and skirt (front and back). The simple bodice is darted for fit, and doesn't have set in sleeves. Either skirt is basic, and both styles button down the center front.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNz1Zz-D01kBTbgSB7N2UUMgTfzcEAoOYE3VcjZx1nJRxDSnPnCK9Buxp3X2t8Yy6dIP_eeVVrwNBJzyYaINMdxmdIgAqx4k2CaU0cssNf5cWSk9f4Y7a8Wdpw42nY_vlaepsAidfVF2nB/s1600/Butterick+5748+dress.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716230169928298194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNz1Zz-D01kBTbgSB7N2UUMgTfzcEAoOYE3VcjZx1nJRxDSnPnCK9Buxp3X2t8Yy6dIP_eeVVrwNBJzyYaINMdxmdIgAqx4k2CaU0cssNf5cWSk9f4Y7a8Wdpw42nY_vlaepsAidfVF2nB/s400/Butterick+5748+dress.jpg" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 479px; height: 500px;" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDQvdy0F_npLc5MU2dfodUvdqzMyK6kGblgEY6lfzvwyyFZO7bw8IA_iVZxJtZhP7aiP7UJG74KvCGX1qsRnajot1tI7AvvKPMSEPZ5xO5GgtR4pKwACNqxKmm_LhmKXYYdLT54cJXO1H/s1600/Butterick+5747.pattern+draft.gif"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716230172001042690" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaDQvdy0F_npLc5MU2dfodUvdqzMyK6kGblgEY6lfzvwyyFZO7bw8IA_iVZxJtZhP7aiP7UJG74KvCGX1qsRnajot1tI7AvvKPMSEPZ5xO5GgtR4pKwACNqxKmm_LhmKXYYdLT54cJXO1H/s400/Butterick+5747.pattern+draft.gif" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 250px;" /></a>This second pattern, Butterick 5748, is also dated 1960. Finally the "Retro" pattern series from Butterick has a classic fit bodice with circle skirt! It's about time. Nothing complicated about it, and there are so many ways this style can go. In the meantime, there's no reason why a narrow fit straight skirt couldn't replace that circle skirt that comes with the pattern, if that is what you want (or a simple gathered skirt as well).<br /><br />My blog post on <a href=" http://pintuckstyle.blogspot.com/2010/07/anatomy-of-dress-flat-lining-in-1960s.html">FLAT LINING</a> could come in handy when sewing these styles, since either dress would look great with flat lining.<br /><br />I have another blog post on <a href=" http://pintuckstyle.blogspot.com/2010/09/sewing-vintage-s-curve-darts-flat.html"><span style="font-weight:bold;">”S” DARTS AND FLAT LINING</span></a> that looks into flat lining in detail, and shows a technique for making well fit bodice darts. The demo dresses are similar to the #5748 dress pattern.<br /><br />I think you'll find these dresses a fun addition to your sewing stock. I look forward to trying these out soon myself!<br /><br />One last thing: the new Butterick "look book" is available online, <a href=" http://issuu.com/mccallpatterncompany/docs/butterick_early_summer_2012_lookbook"><span style="font-weight:bold;">HERE</span></a>.

New Butterick Retro Patterns for Spring: 5748 and 5747

What we have here are the latest new "Retro" Butterick patterns out for spring. The first pattern, Butterick 5747, is from 1960, ...

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Sewing Retro Sun Dresses: 1930s and 1940s Vintage Styles

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGx5AVv4eKq1S8HcrDdxUgQsSNN1AFtRmcpQ8j0I8Onk6SmaVme46N3odX7NYrqF04s560QhKgeij2tPYoX5PXiQ6iyvEOmSJQ3xLP77UvWb-OVRNxfIHuJyTWrA0FPFHIJSlZFBl4F9Xf/s1600/Slide5.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="retro sewing" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607007556472732498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGx5AVv4eKq1S8HcrDdxUgQsSNN1AFtRmcpQ8j0I8Onk6SmaVme46N3odX7NYrqF04s560QhKgeij2tPYoX5PXiQ6iyvEOmSJQ3xLP77UvWb-OVRNxfIHuJyTWrA0FPFHIJSlZFBl4F9Xf/s400/Slide5.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></a><br /><br />It is easy to sew a retro style sun dress. Vintage styles are sometimes hidden in modern patterns. Using contemporary commercial patterns has a few advantages: availability, fit, cost. For anyone who loves the 1930's and 1940's look, true vintage from that era can be fragile, valuable and difficult to fit. With some cute reproduction cotton prints, it's now possible to re-create similar styles to those sewn up and worn during the 30's and 40's.<br /><br />These sundress patterns have a 40's vibe, with the simple cut and soft skirt. At first glance, these may seem to be alot like dresses from the 1950's. Probably the biggest difference between 1940's and 1950's sundress patterns are the softer skirts and shorter lengths in the 40's. The knee length skirts look better with the wedgie sandals worn then. <br /><br />In revising these current patterns it's possible to get a cute retro look. The first style is ready to go, just shorten it to knee length. The center view could be made more retro looking with a simple white collar or adding bow where the little 'V' notch is in front. The third view has a 1930's vibe, with the higher waistline and flared skirt. By choosing a hem length appropriate to the time, you will have a sweet sun dress so like the ones you see in vintage movies.<br /><br />Fabric selection is a breeze with the great reproduction cotton prints for sale. Although produced for quilts, these fabrics are very similar to the affordable cottons women used in that earlier era. Quilting cottons are also a great fabric for new sewists because they don't slip, stretch or act funny. Pre-wash any cotton fabric a few times to be sure it has shrunk before you cut out your pattern. <br /><br />Trims such as contrast bias tape, bigger sized buttons and patch pockets are design features that can be added to really make these simple dresses unique and very retro. Try these trims and you will notice how vintage your dress can look.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">RETRO STYLE SEWING PATTERNS</span><br />Sun Dresses: <br />Simplicity 2174 - Princess seamline dress with pockets<br />Simplicity 3827 - Raised waistline with 'V' neckline<br />Vogue 8725 - Sweetheart neckline with halter neck tie<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/NauvooQuiltCo?ref=pr_shop_more"><span style="font-weight:bold;">NAUVOO QUILT COMPANY</span></a><br />Nearly all of these vintage style cotton prints are from WINDHAM FABRICS 1930's and 1940's collection of cottons.

Sewing Retro Sun Dresses: 1930s and 1940s Vintage Styles

It is easy to sew a retro style sun dress. Vintage styles are sometimes hidden in modern patterns. Using contemporary commercial patterns h...

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Sewing Retro: Vintage Shirt and Blouses

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vWkk-QxU5vkO-KPQ-XKk7VnXAiR8Zrd6USWbEcjs3Rz67Oc9rJ314aSfjcuBOI8PO-nyAmeA2F0Uq-NwhSo7d02Zw34IDYY0NhTX7d6cvSQs3TvxAKQNuCL-vREAoMSo6VSe3tLwTkp0/s1600/Slide1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="sewing retro" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606620847645209282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5vWkk-QxU5vkO-KPQ-XKk7VnXAiR8Zrd6USWbEcjs3Rz67Oc9rJ314aSfjcuBOI8PO-nyAmeA2F0Uq-NwhSo7d02Zw34IDYY0NhTX7d6cvSQs3TvxAKQNuCL-vREAoMSo6VSe3tLwTkp0/s400/Slide1.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 375px;" /></a><br />Wearing true vintage fashion can be difficult. Sometimes they just seem too costumey, and not casual enough for real life. Fit and availability are other issues. These problems can be solved nicely by sewing your own vintage looks. But this project can present another problem: where to find vintage styled patterns and fabric?<br />A good place to start are casual shirts with a 1950's or early 60's design style sewn up in fabrics that seem very vintage in look. Shirts and blouses fit easily into our modern lives, while capturing the essence of vintage fashion. They are also some of the easiest fashion sewing projects, and can be a great way to start sewing for yourself.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIvJzSZScrohJluSkQshMrmjIhGr1gUpY6x5TtoWywLR7a1WKSuB1-tq7i7A2fFtcs28MDHdBzSj5JgTEoFWdQVAZ2Jz-Z-FznBgOLtHpDFwZic-UkXlLyghe3r41zWU_ZS1ro7UG9KC_/s1600/Slide2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="retro fabric" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606620755839443490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIvJzSZScrohJluSkQshMrmjIhGr1gUpY6x5TtoWywLR7a1WKSuB1-tq7i7A2fFtcs28MDHdBzSj5JgTEoFWdQVAZ2Jz-Z-FznBgOLtHpDFwZic-UkXlLyghe3r41zWU_ZS1ro7UG9KC_/s400/Slide2.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 357px;" /></a><br />Button front blouses with a fitted silhouette are available from several of the big pattern companies. Keeping the fit close to the body provides the retro silhouette you want. Slim sleeves, worn short or long are classic. Note the details: collar shape and button fronts. <br />The best fit for a curvey body shape are the long princess seam lines that will make up a slender style. These are also easier to alter. <br />For more design details, the Vogue7003 blouse has several front darts, with is such a vintage look. This style also comes with French cuffs.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYiey59lkAAE095dFnHjFrzO36DTONBdz_IbL6VyHXFoM4PUeLMeYgttIYIZ3-DUrxrFXpNRBtIWc_yzol_JherPcfw-Yo-XkugEFHD1mXVjxJvdW3evsC4JRh6wdUHVq85e6XNSj2hxWo/s1600/Slide3.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="retro fabric" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606620680178278290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYiey59lkAAE095dFnHjFrzO36DTONBdz_IbL6VyHXFoM4PUeLMeYgttIYIZ3-DUrxrFXpNRBtIWc_yzol_JherPcfw-Yo-XkugEFHD1mXVjxJvdW3evsC4JRh6wdUHVq85e6XNSj2hxWo/s400/Slide3.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 500px; height: 350px;" /></a><br />Selecting the right printed fabric comes next. Three of the most popular themes are nature (top), pictorial (middle) and graphic (bottom). The 'all over' prints are easiest to lay out, since you won't need to match anything. These prints are a good choice when sewing a princess seam line style. The horizontal motifs in the bottom set are best in patterns that have simple bodice darts and only the center front needs to be aligned.<br /><br />So, consider making a blouse for summer (no sleeves, now that's easy!). <br /><br />All of the retro style fabrics shown here are from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bonbonatelier?ref=ss_profile"><span style="font-<br />weight:bold;">BonBonAtelier</span></a> on Etsy.<br />Fabrics:<br />CLOUD 9: POTS AND JUGS, PROTEAS, AVENUE, SHARDS<br />KOKKA: HOT AIR PARIS, RUSSIAN FAIR<br />LIZZIE HOUSE: PEEPS <br />ALEXANDER HENRY: DAGMAR PLAID<br /><br /><br />Blouse Patterns:<br />MCCALLS6285, MCCALLS6076, MCCALLS5138, MCCALLS2094, <br />UTTERICK5538, BUTTERICK5538, BUTTERICK5300<br />VOGUE 7903

Sewing Retro: Vintage Shirt and Blouses

Wearing true vintage fashion can be difficult. Sometimes they just seem too costumey, and not casual enough for real life. Fit and availab...

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Under Tuscan Sun: Sewing Retro Style Dresses

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd35knLLOK2LGnfr7mSeI-iZx5_p0WmPQtbzKA1RxqNEsDyie0blcj9I5MWKBXoOd3PKi-hrOfQabnJ9UKATW2-B3o0cn-dp0hu-t_QY5X-diMzeFHoi7fL6ZHJWwVFcgO5mh_xz9__wtq/s1600/Slide4.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583612153930612242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd35knLLOK2LGnfr7mSeI-iZx5_p0WmPQtbzKA1RxqNEsDyie0blcj9I5MWKBXoOd3PKi-hrOfQabnJ9UKATW2-B3o0cn-dp0hu-t_QY5X-diMzeFHoi7fL6ZHJWwVFcgO5mh_xz9__wtq/s400/Slide4.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 305px;" /></a><br />"Under Tuscan Sun" from 2003 remains a popular chick flick, in part due to the vintage styles worn by the lead characters, designed by veteran costume designer Nicoletta Ercole. The 'white dress' that the lead character Frances (Diane Lane) wears created quite a scene when the movie was shown. It was a mini trend at the time. Women everywhere wanted to find that white dress. <br /><br />Dresses featured in this film seem timeless: fitted bodice with longer tea length hemlines. This look couldn't be more current, as tea length styles are once again in fashion. I thought it might be fun to take a second glance at these costumes. <br /><br /><i>Three years have passed since I wrote this blog post. At the time, little did I know that it would become one of the most popular posts ever for this blog. Out of respect for those of you that come here looking for these wonderful dresses, I thought it would be a good time to update the sewing patterns that I listed here. I'll share some new patterns with you at the end of the original post.</i><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixoQiLjqeEKWQroXtQ2iUiMdDK1yCtNCFjOFbgNZNeEq-x65XSbB5Oy_ojrN2ne2ycePNvRupoajvvVZdHhy3IG48BHYrWokS8t4kekNMra43yr31Acn0IqiCxMZPJLpbuuuUmjnc5X4Xv/s1600/Slide6.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583612058378142130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixoQiLjqeEKWQroXtQ2iUiMdDK1yCtNCFjOFbgNZNeEq-x65XSbB5Oy_ojrN2ne2ycePNvRupoajvvVZdHhy3IG48BHYrWokS8t4kekNMra43yr31Acn0IqiCxMZPJLpbuuuUmjnc5X4Xv/s400/Slide6.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /></a><br />The white dress seen in a back view shows clearly the silhouette of this outfit. Below the neatly fitting surplice wrapped bodice, a semi-circle skirt is cut to a vintage 1950's 'ballet' or 'tea length' hem line.<br /><br />The bodice fit is accented by a black belt which is the perfect way to note a slim waistline. I show a close-up view of the wrapped bodice, which crosses over to the front darts. The facing is wide, completely covering the bodice center front. It's my guess that the inside fastens on the front left at the dart to keep this from draping open, as surplice tops often do. <br /><br />The sleeve is cut in a short kimono style to make this crepe dress look like it has short sleeves, but without a shoulder seam line. This gives it that late 1940's style. <br /><br />It is important to notice that this is a mock wrapped dress because the skirt is not wrapped, having a half circle skirt instead. To get that look this dress should have a side zipper.<br /><br />What makes this dress such a success is the fabric selection. I believe this is a quality crepe. During the late 1940's we see many similar dresses in this textile. At that time rayon, silk and wool were used to drape soft fold and body contoured silhouettes. Crepe would provide the necessary weight and hand to drape the front wrap, soft shoulder and graceful circle skirt. The bodice appears unlined, except for the facing. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rWDMD34E_WsqiptHvayt9dNLd3PVF8fWK1tPXZyrsr_LPl2mIQ_GZZpeeFvVE0dDrHgaA89lx5LzsJzhFiuy-0HOcha7RTznHNXOlkTdPxG90tHFsTqoTIpjKKTqQ2fyEwsyz5b-EUbi/s1600/Slide3.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583611963610913154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rWDMD34E_WsqiptHvayt9dNLd3PVF8fWK1tPXZyrsr_LPl2mIQ_GZZpeeFvVE0dDrHgaA89lx5LzsJzhFiuy-0HOcha7RTznHNXOlkTdPxG90tHFsTqoTIpjKKTqQ2fyEwsyz5b-EUbi/s400/Slide3.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 600px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 333px;" /></a><br />A wedding scene has Frances appearing in yet another captivating dress. This one is probably Thai silk in luminescent peach. It has a great circle skirt, looking similar to that on the white dress. <br /><br />The bodice of this dress is a classic cut: front and side darts create a smooth fit. This crisp fabric requires a set in sleeve, seen here with small cuffs. A narrow shawl collar and covered buttons on the front add soft, but not contrasting details. The one color accent is her wide belt. The skirt on this dress does not continue the center front buttons of the bodice. This would require a side zipper.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCnV2JV3XBWjyzseSJm7q39ijxM9Y3QhLFATlRQgnYKvITcT2VPRMB-clSZG5JIbaqIkUqKu1Z9pNLNpWgAOhB4LSHGKhi7lL-CIr-QcMja5_WTR7R8upngtcPMTPQaEqnWbLucH31MAR/s1600/Slide1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583608188720560434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitCnV2JV3XBWjyzseSJm7q39ijxM9Y3QhLFATlRQgnYKvITcT2VPRMB-clSZG5JIbaqIkUqKu1Z9pNLNpWgAOhB4LSHGKhi7lL-CIr-QcMja5_WTR7R8upngtcPMTPQaEqnWbLucH31MAR/s400/Slide1.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 500px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 375px;" /></a><br />Katherine, played by Lindsay Duncan is an fanciful character whose references to Fellini are underscored by her wardrobe. Some of these gowns appear to be true vintage, others are close copies. This red dress coat dress and hat serve to give this character the eccentric drama she requires. Wide lapel details enhance the monochromatic theme of her red on red outfit.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wFHq6sn7X2qM1hGpgBdWVD2BhrbV5EzsZ2WlBasok2RGtWx7BcvwytokVeL8llzyHfrLMF2vBEM8wmVzNCciMVAOR6fzsM62RyVD2sTG4SdxyhqIDsBKokyqGYKchiIsBFKOkH7wb_lY/s1600/Slide5.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583608101372189362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wFHq6sn7X2qM1hGpgBdWVD2BhrbV5EzsZ2WlBasok2RGtWx7BcvwytokVeL8llzyHfrLMF2vBEM8wmVzNCciMVAOR6fzsM62RyVD2sTG4SdxyhqIDsBKokyqGYKchiIsBFKOkH7wb_lY/s400/Slide5.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 450px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 600px;" /></a><br />In a Fellini moment, we see Katherine in the village fountain, wearing a dress very similar to Fellini's famous fountain scene. It is a slender strapless black sheath with a sheer overskirt lined in gray chiffon. Another black dinner dress with a lace overlay or yoke may be vintage, its delicate details certainly are classic for that era.<br /><br />Now, where to find or re-create these styles? I have found a few sewing patterns that could be altered to reproduce the same look. Actually, the dress styles here are not difficult to sew. The challenge is in the fit instead, so find a willing assistant to pin your fit may be required.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBH_DfwKPsqkZ1XoKpGLDRlaBHUlIXWLpobExBwJ1RSkjezaTub5m7qixeqExw7Dyg8GgOQYWLT2OTjRfxJWcMUXOkJ6EZMCEU45EAOx4wFm0_4IfkmYeLslXY8zc_jhbGDFTa1dlBhaB/s1600/Slide1.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583643605965857458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipBH_DfwKPsqkZ1XoKpGLDRlaBHUlIXWLpobExBwJ1RSkjezaTub5m7qixeqExw7Dyg8GgOQYWLT2OTjRfxJWcMUXOkJ6EZMCEU45EAOx4wFm0_4IfkmYeLslXY8zc_jhbGDFTa1dlBhaB/s400/Slide1.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />What both of Frances's dresses have in common is a circle or semi-circle skirt sewn at the waistline to a fitted bodice. In both cases that makes the front closures decorative, because the real dress opening will be a side zipper.<br /><br />These two wrap front sewing patterns have the essential bodice details of the white dress. The green style by Butterick 5030 is closest in cut (minus the collar and ruffled sleeves). The Butterick pattern has front bust darts and will fit a curvy body shape while the Vogue 6846 style is without darts, for a more slender figure. With both bodices, altering the pattern by drafting a wider shoulder cut from the bodice will create the type of sleeve seen on the white dress. <br /><br />Because this should be a mock wrap dress, a circle skirt should be sewn to the bodice instead of wrapping the front skirt. This skirt was probably cut in a 1/2 circle. <br /><br />When adding a circle skirt, completely fit the bodice first to get the waist measurement and skirt length. The skirt will be drafted from those measurements.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEajPUq152HIkAztwLOBAbKvl38UZ4RNZ_gdzTuMpSBkY6IXiIz2kgczqhiExjSNBlGEl-an4lFipkIogHNl5QLiFVsEtkekColo8L2zt0UQ3qdTyrCJhAqUEIO5T0mm6bKvWRGDMran7/s1600/Slide2.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583643525590844930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfEajPUq152HIkAztwLOBAbKvl38UZ4RNZ_gdzTuMpSBkY6IXiIz2kgczqhiExjSNBlGEl-an4lFipkIogHNl5QLiFVsEtkekColo8L2zt0UQ3qdTyrCJhAqUEIO5T0mm6bKvWRGDMran7/s400/Slide2.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />The slender shirtwaist dress by McCalls 4769 has the classic darts to make a fitted torso, as well as set in sleeves. The collar is a traditional notch style. It has a placket front that may be eliminated by taping those center front pattern pieces together on the seamline and cutting as one.<br /><br />The real style challenge is to capture the shirt silhouette. In the movie versions, both were full or semi-circle skirts that were sewn to the fitted bodices, requiring a side seam zipper. While a circle skirt pattern can be found for sale, it is not impossible to cut an original version to fit the bodice. <br /><br />When preparing to draft a circle skirt, the directions ask for a waist measurement. Use the bodice waistline measurement from a fitted garment. Be sure to draft a skirt with side seams. When doing this, I use an open floor space, chalk, yardsticks and even string to create the true arc. <br /><br />Hemming circle skirts is most easily done with a very narrow double fold that is hand sewn or machine stitched. When using softer fabrics like crepe, before hemming the finished dress will need to hang for a week or so to let the hem 'hang out'. After that, have the length measured while wearing the dress. This will even out what is probably an uneven skirt length.<br /><br />If you want more information on drafting circle skirts, the images I show here for the skirt draft are explained in full on the blog: <a href="http://makingthings.andreatung.com/2006/04/diy-circle-skirts.html">Making Things by Andrea Tung</a>.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGrQJH-KaKmVDI5qSGUdaFVTMe3iHwIG1REYHCSG4_JJ9WB3PfRixVVGhfLjTfcFeAnSMKb9DobHjUL8K-xlQrTzqKatuR5G42QaKQ4xBpXIKIQpvhlaBTwTBnJ9jhhZDwXSV0gJK0y1x/s1600/Slide3.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5583643412764887874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcGrQJH-KaKmVDI5qSGUdaFVTMe3iHwIG1REYHCSG4_JJ9WB3PfRixVVGhfLjTfcFeAnSMKb9DobHjUL8K-xlQrTzqKatuR5G42QaKQ4xBpXIKIQpvhlaBTwTBnJ9jhhZDwXSV0gJK0y1x/s400/Slide3.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br /><br />This concludes the original post. The sewing patterns shown above, Butterick 5030 and Vogue 8646 are still being sold. McCall's 4769 is now out of print, but seems to be available on the McCall's website, and other stores online. <br /><br />To add to the wrap dress collection above, I found several more patterns from Vogue 8896, 8784 and 8379. When looking to match a pattern with your fabric, take care to see if the pattern is designed for a woven or stretch textile, as both are available. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg7-hZSCSeF6PfgMrN-lgnrNYQasdVED1q60KQS8zQb7x0StcYA9fgOis2qOXNmZvHAH_yIkmBiYRgQ0e7BgZC2d-ojiDML258h9sNwYY3Nuj_BhSfog6knsJbrVdUEedkiGJV1-wnh3yz/s1600/Slide2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg7-hZSCSeF6PfgMrN-lgnrNYQasdVED1q60KQS8zQb7x0StcYA9fgOis2qOXNmZvHAH_yIkmBiYRgQ0e7BgZC2d-ojiDML258h9sNwYY3Nuj_BhSfog6knsJbrVdUEedkiGJV1-wnh3yz/s400/Slide2.JPG" /></a></div><br /><br />The simple, slim cut shirt dress pattern was more difficult to locate. McCall's has two dresses that might fit the bill: 6891 and 6696. McCall's 6891 comes the closest to the original dress design. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBatD6-ILuQkVjCPfLpY2yrQBhdtabPk-R6u1wT7xYwOnojTw1cd8yAeM0f557dOX-FdgU3P459dnGDVrdEKzCs6TM2XwHDPSGs9IKuPnSPz6LnqMp7HdcOphQdRUiwG2bfsQ5OtaEWd1v/s1600/Slide1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBatD6-ILuQkVjCPfLpY2yrQBhdtabPk-R6u1wT7xYwOnojTw1cd8yAeM0f557dOX-FdgU3P459dnGDVrdEKzCs6TM2XwHDPSGs9IKuPnSPz6LnqMp7HdcOphQdRUiwG2bfsQ5OtaEWd1v/s400/Slide1.JPG" /></a></div><br /><br />Simplicity 1880 has both dress styles in one pattern. While the shoulders have a slight 40's vibe with a wide shoulder yoke, overall either might sew up into the right look. A good belt would define the waistline too. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKYU9Qpw9mzdFAlpxUgfiKZUW-hX9tEzeJnkJ8ImgD0n71ZmakslPq9MVSu-3M7WkD7km2BDBV0zuRBJx7-aTUX_W_u5ByyaiauY2gjiUmGIvRi6KbERzlEMKceHXcq4E3jnIVbuMnrgM/s1600/Slide3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKYU9Qpw9mzdFAlpxUgfiKZUW-hX9tEzeJnkJ8ImgD0n71ZmakslPq9MVSu-3M7WkD7km2BDBV0zuRBJx7-aTUX_W_u5ByyaiauY2gjiUmGIvRi6KbERzlEMKceHXcq4E3jnIVbuMnrgM/s400/Slide3.JPG" /></a></div><br /><br />I want to thank everyone who has contacted me or left comments over the past few years. It has been alot of fun seeing how this post really fills a need that women who sew have. Beautiful dresses that fit well. That isn't too much to ask, is it? <br /><br />

Under Tuscan Sun: Sewing Retro Style Dresses

"Under Tuscan Sun" from 2003 remains a popular chick flick, in part due to the vintage styles worn by the lead characters, designe...

Read more »