1940's Retro

I wasn't excited about getting on the peplum bandwagon until I saw Simplicity 1590. To me, it's the true essence of the retro peplum of the 40's and 50's. I love its simple lines, flattering neckline, cap sleeve, cinched in waist and full skirted peplum.

 

Are these adorable or what?

And there is an interesting fashion history story on the instruction page that I thought was very enlightening:

 

"Social trends always had a certain amount of influence over fashion. With the onset of WW II, the United States experienced the largest change in fashion to date. Prior to the war, the American designers were traveling abroad for inspiration for their designs. 1941 changed all that and laid the foundation for the United States to become the sportswear capital of the world.

 

American designers went from full to slim in all silhouettes. Skirts were shortened and were topped with above hip length jackets. Evening wear went from long, flowing gowns to slim fitted sheaths. Designers created separates and coordinating pieces as they were guided by the War Production Board to design fashions that would remain stylish and wearable through the seasons. The American fashion staple of mix and match pieces, or coordinated separates and wardrobes was born."

 

Here are a couple more photos:

 

 

And side view:

 

 

I love my blouse! And the polka dots, too.

A Dress to Love

I think Rachel Comey has outdone herself with the simplicity and elegance of Vogue 1350. The hidden snap closure down the front gives a clean and classic look. I am simply in love with it! It is easy to wear, fits like a glove and I think it will have lots of versatility when made with different fabrics and then accessorized. I can't wait to make a more casual version in a soft cotton.

 

Here is a closer look at the front bodice:

 

 

And I adore the back neckline!

Completely lined, it just has that nice weight of  an upscale RTW garment:

I need to put Maggie on a diet so my clothes fit her! Back lining:

Here is my complete Pattern Review:

Pattern Description:

Lined dress has yoke fronts extending into sleeves, close-fitting bodice with side back seams, raised waist, semi-fitted skirt, side front extends to lower side back, no side seams, mock front bands, and concealed snap closure.

Pattern Sizing:

6-14 in my envelope. I made my usual size 12

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing it?

Yes!

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Okay. I have to give the instructions a C-. There is some very intricate work in the bodice around the yoke, front and side front pieces. These same pieces are lined, doubling your pleasure. I just think they could have done a better job with descriptions and made the illustrations less confusing. Once you get through that portion of the bodice, the rest is easy as pie. If I didn't love the finished result so much I might rant a little more, but I have to forgive BVM.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I love the style of this dress and the clean, simple front with the hidden snap closure. The fit is great and it can be made dressy or casual depending on fabric and accessories. My only dislike was the instruction issue described above.

Fabric Used:

A linen/cotton blend. Polyester lining that I regret using now. If I'd known how I was going to love this dress I would have used Ambience or something nicer.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

None needed.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I will absolutely sew this again and very highly recommend.

Conclusion:

Because of my frustration with the bodice instruction this one was in close danger of being a wadder. I'm so happy I persevered because I adore this dress!

Can you tell?