I had mixed feelings when I first saw this challenge. 1920s patterns are notoriously unflattering on curvy girls with their dropped waists and rectangular shape. I decided I'd spend a bit of time looking for something, and if I didn't find it, I'd call it a day. Here were my criteria:
1. It needed to be from the 1920s to fit with the theme.
2. It had to be flattering, so likely something with a seam at the waist or I could tie at the waist.
3. I wanted to be able to wear it for more than just watching the movie. I love a good costume as much as the next gal, but I wanted to make something I could wear more than once. So likely not something fitting for a Gatsby soiree!
Pattern
Past Patterns 8340
I found the pattern through Past Patterns, which is a fun little company I haven't bought from before. Here's the pattern description from the original, "Ladies' house dress, closing at left side of front, with sleeves in long or short length and a three-piece gathered skirt in slightly raised waistline; pocket and separate belt."
It meets my criteria perfectly, and I love the sailor-esque collar. Plus, I get to do fabric-covered buttons!
Construction should be interesting for two reasons:
1. I was warned before buying that the pattern had "minimal instructions", and they weren't lying! Nothing like a bit of fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants sewing to make things exciting.
2. The measurements are a bit crazy, and definitely don't match my proportions. 38" bust, 26-1/2" waist, and 42-1/2" hip. Definitely not the standard. So I'll be making some changes to the pattern for sure!
Construction should be interesting for two reasons:
1. I was warned before buying that the pattern had "minimal instructions", and they weren't lying! Nothing like a bit of fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants sewing to make things exciting.
2. The measurements are a bit crazy, and definitely don't match my proportions. 38" bust, 26-1/2" waist, and 42-1/2" hip. Definitely not the standard. So I'll be making some changes to the pattern for sure!
Fabric
I decided to go with a cotton fabric so it would be light and comfortable for spring/summer. I also wanted something a bit geometrical and a print that was a bit more subdued.
Black fabric will be used as contrast.
I actually had a hard time getting the fabric for this. The pattern requires 5-1/2 yds of 36" fabric, so even with translating it to larger widths, it's quite a bit of fabric. I though I had found something perfect online at Hart's, but they called me to say they were short on fabric, so I had to start over. I'm pretty happy with it in the end!
Are you going to see the movie this weekend? I was an English major, but I'm kind of apathetic about the book. It just doesn't tickle my fancy for some reason. I'm looking forward to seeing the film, but I'm definitely not one of the avid fans!
Are you going to see the movie this weekend? I was an English major, but I'm kind of apathetic about the book. It just doesn't tickle my fancy for some reason. I'm looking forward to seeing the film, but I'm definitely not one of the avid fans!
Good luck with the dress! Can't wait to see it.
ReplyDeleteI didn't love The Great Gatsby. Tender Is The Night is definitely my favourite Fitzgerald novel!
Thanks Natasha! You know, I haven't read Tender is the Night. I'll have to add it to my reading list. Thanks for the tip!
Deletei also enjoy vintage looks, never thought about seeking patterns. maybe I need a break from quilting.
ReplyDeleteHI Nancy! It's very fun. A lot of the big sewing companies, like Vogue and Butterick, do reproduction patterns so you don't have to mess with partial instructions or any of those things. Happy sewing!
DeleteHi Lauren,
ReplyDeleteI'm new to your blog, can't wait for more newsletters! I'm developing a real interest in pattern drafting so I can get a good fit. Also, I can choose the details I want - part vintage, part modern if that looks right. That being said, judging from the measurements of the dress that you quoted, I think the original was intended to be worn over a corset. My guess is that there were ladies in the 1920s who chose to wear corsets just as there were women in the 1960s who chose not to burn their bras! I'm looking forward to reading more about your adventures.
Hi Vintageer! Yes, I think you're right. Past Patterns actually has a note to remind us ladies that the under garments of the past are quite different than the ones of today. It sounds like you have a neat since of style! Thanks for stopping by.
Delete