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Jan. 9 - Jan. 13 The Week in Patterning - 57, Christmas in January!
1920s 1930s EvaDress Patterns McCall 5315 The Week in Patterning Storyboard Vintage Patterns
Alexandra ReynoldsWell not exactly Christmas, but it can feel a little that way when I receive patterns from some generous person who offers vintage pattern styles to make available via my services. These are four of many AMAZING patterns in Alyssa's collection (see her here at VintageorBust). A little run down on why I chose each one (click images for a larger view): Knowing I want to fill in my 1920's offerings (pre-1929) I asked for this 1928 McCall. I saw in this one an opportunity for flattering and interesting lines packaged in a simple sheath style great for any sewing...
Dec. 29 - Jan. 6 The Week in Patterning - 56, Raven Takes Flight this Year
1930s Cos30-607 costume crinoline DuBarry 607 EvaDress Patterns raven The Week in Patterning Storyboard Vintage Patterns
Alexandra ReynoldsI posted a couple weeks ago about developing the crinoline costume from a 1930's DuBarry original. I am doing a raven version after modifying the pattern a bit for my purpose and will make a multi-size pattern of the original design late this summer. I just finished the panniers to go under it and it is soon to unveil! I wanted to give a word here about the process of building the panniers as there are no pieces for it included with the pattern. Matter of fact, all DuBarry originally gave is a small crinoline to be worn at the...
Dec. 26 - Dec. 30 The Week in Patterning - 55, Pattern Tour 1943 Dress & Redingote
1940's coat D40-4662 dress EvaDress Patterns redingote shirtwaist dress The Week in Patterning Storyboard Vintage Patterns
Alexandra ReynoldsSimplicity 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...
Dec. 19 - Dec. 23 The Week in Patterning - 54, EvaDress fabulous 40's Pattern Challenge!
1940's coat dress EvaDress Patterns Pattern Challenge redingote The Week in Patterning Storyboard
Alexandra ReynoldsA 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...
Dec. 12 - Dec. 16 The Week in Patterning - 53, Developing a Raven
1930's costume crinoline EvaDress Patterns faux fur raven The Week in Patterning Storyboard Vintage Patterns
Alexandra Reynolds...an 18th Century-esque raven, that is. Actually, a costume pattern from the 30's as a retrospective on a crinoline costume per The DuBarry Pattern Co. I modified this design to come up with a raven costume and now it is in the finishing stretch! Just a few 'teaser' (throwback process) photos until I have it all together and share it for The New Year! I plan to make the pattern available in multi-sizes in 2017. (Funny enough, my muse perched atop a pine outside my window and 'sang' as I worked up the costume!)