News — 1940's

A little tour of this pattern as it is among the fist of my E-Pattern offerings (more on that next week as the collection grows!) and also just because it is fabulous!  I recently included a turban pattern to go with it so it went from being a 9-piece pattern to a 10-piece on that note! While this single-size pattern (for 38" bust) is hand-drafted for the dress or gown, the more recently added turban is digitally drafted and full instructions are included to create it within the dress construction details. A note about the dress, as shown it is...

A single-size pattern I drafted some time ago and did not yet make available (until now)! A 1940's panties & slip pattern in size 40" bust, 34" waist and 43" hip in which the single panties piece means the pair is cut in one with front and back, so there is no side seam.   The waistline of the panties is fitted down via pleats at front, the top edge is finished with a self-straight facing creating a casing in which a buttonhole opening for elastic insertion (across the back edge only) is created.     The gored slip is fitted...

Now available in sizes 32" to 46" bust, is Vogue's 1949 Ensemble.  Originally meant as lounge wear, the tunic and trousers could TOTALLY be worn as a casual outfit by today's standards!     The sash which ties around the waist and knots at left front was originally referred to as a 'gridle' and I chose to re-name the 'coat' a 'tunic' for Vogue being inconsistent with how they name that part of the ensemble in the original pattern. Per the text to describe the style, 'The flared lower section of tunic joins double-breasted top at waistline and has notched...

Simplicity originally designated this a dress & coat pattern.  I refer to the coat as a redingote as I feel its single-button-at-waist closing really aids in revealing the dress underneath (would also be smashing with trousers underneath)!   In testing this design, I found much more ease in the redingote sleeve cap than I prefer.  It may be advisable to reduce some of the sleeve cap height no matter what size you are sewing, but see what your muslin says about that (of course).  That goes ditto for the dress sleeve. The collarless redingote is clean, yet brimming with details.  Princess...

A little food for thought as you unwind for the holidays and prepare for the New Year, I have posted my next challenge well in advance as I have largely advertised it in print! Everything 40's fashion is-FABULOUS!  Suits were highly tailored for men AND women, drapery on an evening gown lent luxe details, even the humble and comfortable at-home house dress was loaded with interesting lines; everything was so well fitting. Projects may not be started earlier than 12:01 a.m. EST on February 1, 2017 although a muslin for fitting may be created any time before the challenge kick-off...