Harrods Spring Fashions Catalogue c. 1940
The “Lily the Pink” Dress
This was actually my first (successful) version of the boat-neck bodice from Gertie’s Ultimate Dress Book – a pattern I’ve now used multiple times in different variations. I made this one with fitting advice from Gertie herself at one of her dressmaking retreats in Beacon, NY, back in June last year. This is the dress I wore for my Masters graduation ceremony in July.
How to choose colour for your home (1956)
Free download: This tear-out supplement in Woman magazine 24 March 1956, How to choose colour for your home, provides “sound practical advice with many colour-scheme suggestions, guides to measuring and up-to-the-minute information, to help all homemakers achieve a happy, good-looking, well-planned home”. As the name suggests, it offers tips on choosing colour, but it actually covers more than that, including advice on texture and painting as well.
Giant Bow Pockets
The giant bow pockets I added to my "Bow-dacious" dress are such a fun touch, and they're so simple to sew, but make a big impact!
Fabric design process: Santorini
My entry to this week’s spoonflower design challenge is directly inspired by an original vintage skirt I saw on Pinterest and the Greek island of Santorini.
The "Bow-dacious" Dress
How long does it take to plan a sewing project? In the first picture I ever saw of Dita von Teese back in 2001, she wore a black vintage dress with enormous bows on the pockets and neckline - I’m guessing it’s a cusp late 30s - early 40s number. I fell in love with it instantly. Years later I came across the dress again on Pinterest, and saved it to my sewing inspiration file.
Vogue's Spring Colour Schemes 1955
Pattern hack: Draft a faux-wrap midriff
DIY Love letters Dangle Brooch
I love the novelty 'dangler' brooch styles of the 1940s and 50s - you often see them in Bakelite, celluloid and other old plastics, and in any and all kitschy themes you can think of. I decided to go with love letters as it seemed appropriate for February, but as far as I'm concerned hearts and love letters are year-round motifs.