This site is dedicated to the love of patterns from the past. I enjoy the styles, history, artwork and unique fashion.

Sunday, 21 November 2010

Simplicity 7897 & Simplicity 6733


Simplicity 7897
Misses' Jiffy Dress - Circa 1968

A - line dres with set in sleeve, back zipper and mandarin collar. Long Bell shaped sleeve. Optional back waistline darts.

I liked this "Mod" very 1960's dress. It brought back the era, with its bell sleeve and short hemline. I put in the optional back and front waistline darts to make it more figure shaping. This was made in a polyester - satin of which the patterning took a while to find, that looked "psychedelic". It calls for bias seam binding for the sleeve trim and I used white. I have never finished a sleeve this way, but I do like it for this particular style and look. Its the first time I have had to match the patterned fabric which was successful, at the back of the dress where the invisible zipper is inserted.

 With this pattern I made a very 60's glossy hat. I have not made a hat before and thought I'd give it a try and I'm pretty happy with it. Its a "sou' wester" style but with some glossy PVC it can look Mod. The hat was really easy to make and now I'll have to make myself some sun hats for this summer.






Simplicity 6733
Misses' Rain Coat & Hat.


Saturday, 23 October 2010

Far Out Man !

Inspired by an episode of 1969 Bewitched, I had to bring out the Jumpsuit ! I'm sure many are still hidden in the wardrobe just waiting for the revival...if it may come. I just can't see where they were flattering. Sure is brave though !

Simplicity 7909.

For the Hip Chick of the times in long or short pant. Great with your roman sandals or court shoes for the more conservative look (you wouldn't think conservative is possible!)

Simplicty 6793.

A more tailored leg here, in contrast to the bell bottoms. If you really want to Razz it up try the layered frill at ankle and collar (in pink). So much more romantically feminine.

Simplicity 7445.

You might just need an extra 2 metres on this one just for the pants. Super flared leg available in long or short. WOW.

Friday, 22 October 2010

New York 1967 Designer Dress


1967 Bill Blass - McCalls 8927

I found this gem on Ebay. A gorgeous, stylish, very 60's front  pleated designer dress. A sleeveless four section dress with inverted pleat on the left side. I really like the pleat being to one side and also a sash pocket concealed under pleat. So very modern, but it is really not in time scale. Neck detail has inerfaced bands in neck facing seam. Rear entry zip.
Its so crisp looking and I'm really into the front pleat thing at the moment. Not sure what fabric I will use : Crepe probably, but i like the idea of Linen, but practically I won't as it just crushes harshly, taking away from the perfect crisp look to it.

Monday, 6 September 2010

Welcome Spring !

Yipee its here again...Spring ! This is my favorite time of year. The flowers are blooming and I can smell the scents. I can hear the birds singing again and just love to feel the warmth again. Away goes the flannel bed sheets and put away the jumpers. Something special is in the air.

Butterick 9372.

Cross back button affix, full skirted 1950's dress.
Feeling Spring in this one. Can be worn with a small jacket (Bolero style) to keep the fresh air chill off the shoulders.

This is a Vogue Reproduction of a 1957 design.
Similar in its large skirt but top is more classical and could be for evening or cocktail affairs.
I can hear the rustling fold in this skirt. Crisp cotton blends or for a more seductive dress, satin or taffita.


This Vogue pattern book says it all..."Spring Starts Here!"
For 60 cents you could have had the whole book to view.
I do like the three-quarter sleeve dresses and coat dresses. They are perfect for the warm/ can be cool spring weather.





Simplicity 1970 Pattern Book.
Check out the Groovy scarf and modern independent chick haircut !
Oh that daisy pattern is a classic.


Tuesday, 24 August 2010

Lets go Back to Mod !

Who was the wise guy who was right in saying "youth is wasted on the young"? How very true ! I want to play dress ups in some Mod gear and not feel silly *pout*. I missed the Mod 1960's thing, but now its made a bit of a return, I'm probably too old ! Well we can always daydream...



                                          
Vogue Paris Original ~ Balmain 1529.

When I first saw this, I thought it looked like leather. Now that would be Mod. Its a smart suit set but really Mod to me.

McCalls 8126 .

This block dress could be worn with the sensible shoes or could be with some white Knee highs. What about a white cap?

A scene from "Man From Uncle"

How cute is the zip front dress (to hemline) matching colour knee highs and hat. Note the white segmented detail along the long sleeve arm.

"Bewitched" Serena in her Groovy gear.

Its really hard to find stills from Bewitched and there is some amazingly great time pieces of fashion in it that, some, I have managed to find patterns for. I'd love to bring in some more Bewitched stills and match to patterns, so if anyone knows a good site, do tell.

"I Dream of Jeanie"

I see that Roger has fallen for Jeanie this time in her Mod gear. A sweet pale blue suit with her cute white boots. You would have to match with a white clasp top handbag, surely ?

"The Avengers"

WOW how bold, however I think its more bold today than it was then. Why is that? Why is leather deemed naughty? Well she does have her sensible flat rider type boot on ! The top and pants actually look really comfortable to wear.


Gosh my Mum had a mini as short as this in suede and I still have it. I have not worn it as the waist is way too small. She wore it even after 6 kids and looked really great.


Just love this magazine spread. It captures some of the great fabrics, poses, style and youth of the time.

Saturday, 12 June 2010

It's Cold Outside !

The cold is finally here with icy air and "I dont want to get out of bed" feeling. Although this region is warmer than the southern areas of NSW, I still feel the cold these last few days. I found the perfect pattern for keeping so, sooo warm.


Vogue Paris Original 2484 Givenchy.
Circa 1970's

Long sleeve tunic top with straight legged pants and front zip closure.Tunic is semi fitted with back button closure & front side slits and collar. There is a detached  hood with snap closure.

I'd add those gloves in this climate with a nice pair of warm boots.

Friday, 14 May 2010

Retro reproduction pattern 1950's

I bought this reproduction pattern of 1950's styled garments. Originally I loved the three- quarter sleeve swing coat, so cute! I have nearly completed the three - quarter pinstripe pants and want to make the white cotton top to go with it.

Thank you Simplicity for a reproduction series...I only want them all !