Despite a rather late announcement of #VintagePledge 2017, I want to thank you SO much for your enthusiasm. Many of you have already made a wonderful start to the pledge and I'm loving reading your plans - from using a vintage drafting book and tackling your first ever vintage pattern to knitting along and sewing a garment for each season!
Given that my pledge is to sew at least one pattern in my stash from the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, I thought I'd show you some of my favourite patterns from each decade. But before that, there are a couple of related things you might find interesting. Allie J has published a helpful guide to buying your first vintage pattern (with the chance to win a $25 Etsy voucher to help you on your way) and Mrs Hughes is hosting an awesome #DressLikeYourGrandma challenge until 17 April!
1930s
The 1930s just oozed glamour and I've managed to get my mitts on some stunning sewing patterns over the years. I seldom have the occasion to wear anything quite so lovely, so the challenge I'll face is tailoring this decade to my lifestyle.
1940s
Despite times being tough for many people during the 1940s, even the more modest fashions were full of beautiful detail. I'm actually surprised by how contemporary the Hollywood and McCall patterns look, which is a reminder of how much recent styles are still influenced by vintage designs.
1950s
The 1950s are so very classic and sometimes downright extravagant. Controversially, it's the simpler designs of the decade that I'm drawn to, as I feel my frame could easily be swamped by oodles of fabric.
1960s
A lot of exciting fashion developments took place in the 1960s, but lacking the figure for wiggle skirts and mod styles, I'm mostly attracted to the fashion of the earlier part of the decade. I actually attempted the Vogue pattern seven years ago and ended up abandoning it as I wasn't skilled enough to tackle fitting issues. I still have the lovely monochrome cotton lawn, so I'm tempted to give it another go this year!
Until recently, I swore I hated 1970s fashion. Yet I'm finding myself increasingly attracted to it and it's ALL YOUR FAULT for sewing up super cool things like this! I've definitely warmed to the fuss-free and wearable sewing patterns out there.
The real challenge, of course, will be finding/making time to sew everything I want to this year. As well as my #VintagePledge I also have big contemporary sewing plans with new patterns sneaking in every week!
I imagine lots of you feel the same way, but I do hope you can join me for a spot vintage sewing...
Some 30s and 40s patterns look totally contemporary when made up! I have a late 30s sundress pattern with a crossover back and full gathered skirt that looks perfectly modern. Also my 40's wrap dresses (that I love so much!) don't look overly vintage unless you style them that way.
ReplyDeleteThat 30s tunic of yours could easily be worn as a dress too! And I also have that Simplicity 3931 which is an excellent pattern - Ive made it in grey bamboo twill and its very comfy.
Hi Marie, I would so totally wear this 1930s dresses (not the halter) to work. I am excited about you making them. I just like to see them on after the sewing process. AllieJ's piece about buying vintage is so on point. Happy sewing.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely gorgeous and special patterns in your collection - I can't decide what my pledge would be (a good excuse to pull out my pattern box and go through it I suppose! ;o)
ReplyDeleteWould love to join you Marie. I would like to make a vintage jacket slowly with care and learning. Anything else this year would be a bonus! Jo xxx
ReplyDeleteThe 1940s McCalls blouses, 7844 particularly, hover at the top of my pile but keep getting bumped down the road for resizing needs. I did work a muslin out of one of them, and then the weather turned and it was too cold to consider wearing it. I suspect in June I'll revisit it.
ReplyDeleteI have the last Butterick 5428 that I have sewn for lots of people over the years but never for me (just not my style). It does look really really cute with the stripes.
I am so envious of your pattern collection and am looking forward to seeing your plans coming to fruition!
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful pledge!
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to get started on mine! :) x
1930s and 40s stuff is very easy to make contemporary - honestly, just shorten the length to knee rather than mid calf and you're done! But it really shows how good styling and details look great no matter what decade it is.
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