Capes

My facination with fashion cape wear

Its such a shame that the fashion cape is not worn anymore. Its quite a practical item, keeping you warm and allowing you to either tuck away your arms or having them through the cape slots. I have only once seen them in streetwear in my time, in cold winter Canberra ACT a woman in a three quarter brown cape, on her way to work. Here in this country town of NSW it would surely look out of place.

They can be for warmth or for rain & wind protection. I have added a few nice patterns I have found to demonstrate their appeal.

Beautiful cream double breasted buttoning with boots.

Although this is a knitted pattern, its still is a great look with the hat &and gloves.

More of an office look with a suit set of the 1960's.

I think the Simplicity 8504 button detail is adorable on the red front chest, with the high collar.

Simple, street wear cape for the young lady. Also could be Nurses uniform, of days gone by. Here this cape is worn not for winter, but with a summer dress, to cover the shoulders from those cool evenings.

I found this reproduction 1948 pattern and could not go past it. Variation in cape styles from medium to capelette. I look forward to trying out these. The white hooded one is so sweet, ideal for a winter wedding.

Princess For A Day

Vogue Paris Original 1897.

Yves Saint Laurent

Circa 1960.

I found this 'Princess' pattern on Ebay & initially thought it was a bit over the top, but I couldn't look away. Then I thought why not, everyone deserves to be a Princess even if only for a day. So I bought it. It's currently flying first class (of course) to me and I am going to make up this cape. I will try the tamer version also, eventually.

A line cape, lined to edge in evening or street length, with or without fur trim. High waisted dress in evening or street length, sleeves or sleeveless.

McCalls by Givenchy

McCalls 3625 by Givenchy

I found this absolute rare Givenchy designed pattern on a popular vintage pattern sellers site, but sadly it had already sold for $95.00

I have to say it is one of a kind and at the end of the day, worth it in many ways.

I love the Audrey look alike and her whole pose.

I have never seen another like it.

Beautiful Parisian style...

McCall's 9099 (1967)

I will try any cute or unusual pattern fashion. This I thought suitable for the start of my Autumn fashion 2010. It may be Barbie, but she is a fashion girl after all. I just loved the rain wear and sou' wester. So for a quick afternoon of sewing this is what im going to whip up for fun.

I did purchase the pattern on Ebay specifically for the rain cape & hat only to find the cape pattern missing, so had to design the pattern myself.

Circa 1967.

Simplicity 6060 Caftan (1974)

Here is one for all the Groovers... Yes its a caftan. I have made it a little different to the traditional fabrics used. I guess its turned out a little more Goth/ Medieval. Traditional fabrics of the time are suggested as Terrycloth (Mmmm), Velveteen (defiantely medieval), Muslin or Linen.

Circa 1974.

Simplicity 8541 Dress (1969)

Described as a "Jiffy" dress, this is a button trimmed number with back zipper entry. This has a pleat, simulating an opening. Short set in sleeves. Very cute !

Circa 1969.

Yesterday Vs Today

Fashion is a cycle and what was once the latest, is put in the closet and one day again, sees the light of day.
I really enjoy the fashion from the past. That is, not to say there isn't some beautiful modern designs today, but they really aren't worn anymore in day to day living. Sure its not practical in this busy day, but you can fantasise !
I want to explore unique fashion styles from the past, no matter how impractical, but to be adored for their style, and beauty.
I aim to post gorgeous pattern designs and share with others their choices too। I will be also posting pics of garments I have made from my favorite patterns.