Scraps from the Past: Playwear in Stripes

The pattern: Simplicity 2444, 1940s

Now is the time we start thinking seriously of summer and great vintage summer fashion. This pattern is the perfect ensemble for a summer day of outdoor play - a picnic, a day in the park or at the beach. The skirt wraps around the step-in playsuit - it's great 40s style!

The scrap: This red-and-white striped piece of fabric was the collar piece, and was tucked in the pattern envelope. This piece of soft cotton looks like it would make a fresh and comfortable ensemble for summer sport and play. Although can you picture the entire outfit in red-and-white stripes? Perhaps this was a contrast fabric piece?

Jumpsuits - The New Hot Thing?

I was reading in the "Style & Travel" section of the October 16, 2014 edition of The Wall Street Journal that jumpsuits are becoming a "must buy" fashion, from casual to tailored! I know, I know - The Wall Street Journal as a source for fashion news? Well, they always cover fashion on Thursdays, and it is newspaper that is available at work, so I try to pay attention to it, at least on Thursdays. ;)

So, jumpsuits? Well, if you want to find really cute jumpsuits, you can't do better than vintage! For best fit and preferred fabric, sewing your own seems like a no-brainer.

Jumpsuits become regular wardrobe items in the 1940s, especially (though not exclusively) as work apparel for women working in manufacturing plants that supported the war effort.

1950s

In the 1950s, the jumpsuit emerged as a trending sportswear (and so cute!), but not common. 

1960s & 1970s

The most popular decades for the jumpsuit were the 1960s and the 1970s.  Hip and groovy, they expanded to include a wide range of styles, suitable for both casual and formal wear: from the uber-slim "cat suit" to the delicious fullness of palazzo pants. 

   1980s

Jumpsuits lingered in the 1980s, but definitely not as popular an item as in the 1970s. 

 So what do you think? Do jumpsuits in general have appeal? Would you sew one for yourself? Do any of the patterns above appeal to you?

A Salute to Boating Season!

The first Saturday of May is coming up soon and it's the official First Day of Boating. Port cities (like Seattle) usually have a parade of boats all tricked out with banners and pennants to celebrate the occasion. In honor of this annual event, I am beginning to post nautical-styled patterns in my shop. Here are just a few patterns for ladies and children, from the 1940s to the 1970s, to pique your interest:

Aye, aye, mates! Enjoy some timelessly great nautical fashion!

1938 Playsuit for Summer Fun

With a bare midriff and flared culottes, this charming two-piece playsuit can be slipped over a bathing suit or worn for leisurely sunning. Such charming style from 1938!