The Hope Chest

If you have been following the Boyer Family Singers blog, you know that Jessica has been working on the contents for her hope chest.

This post is dedicated to you, Jessica! The Lane Cedar Chest was the hope chest of choice for many a bride-want-to-be in the 1950s (as well as decades before and after ;)). What a perfectly beautiful bridal gown, yes?

I purchased a Lane Cedar Chest myself (as my hope chest) after high school, although I have to admit I was not as diligent as Jessica in collecting my "trousseau" items. ;) But it was great for storing wool clothing, as the cedar naturally repels moths. And I still have it!

Scraps from the Past - Summer Pajamas in White Seersucker

The Pattern: Simplicity 4006 (1961)

These cute pajamas are 60s slim! I especially like the short summer length, with their "cabin boy" or "clam digger" length pants. It's inspiring sleepwear fashion!

 

The Scrap: Still attached to the pocket pattern piece, and tucked in the pattern envelope, was this fabric scrap. Although stained with age, this square bit of white seersucker is still soft and feels perfectly light and comfortable for summer.

I can picture it! :)

Home Sewing Tips from the 1920s - Bridal Tips on Informal Evening Frocks

Will Edith ever get to marry? Do we trust that man of hers? As far as that goes, now Mary has another beau! Downtown Abbey continues to hold our close attention.

In this tip from the 1920s, Ruth Wyeth Spears gives tips on choosing the appropriate style evening frock for the figure - what an interesting concept. Do you think the frock on the right is too "youthful"? Both would look perfectly lovely on Lady Rose, I think. :)

Resort Fashion - A Swirl of 1951 Summer Style

This fine summer dress is a swirl of color. Fabulous with off-shoulder neckline and a beautifully flared skirt, this cotton dress is also easy to care for! Just step through the door, and I am transported. :)

Resort Fashion - 1950s Strapless Suit and "Sandwig"

I love the mauve colors in this picture - so peaceful. :)

That is a terry cloth "Sandwig" on her head, worn to cover wet hair after swimming. Rather jaunty looking  - what do you think? And the fabulous strapless suit is embroidered piqué.

Home Sewing Tips from the 1920s - Satin Flowers for the Bride's Gown

In this wonderful tip, Ruth Wyeth Spears describes a lovely decoration for a bridal gown. She provides an actual size template, which you use to cut flower appliques from satin. You trim along the edges of each flower with pearl beads. The satin flowers are then applied to bands of sheer georgette, which trim the dress (along with side drapes of georgette). Such graceful 1920s wedding fashion!

Resort Fashion - A 1950s Duster is a Must!

Looking exotic and in such a dramatic pose, this model is wearing a black terry cloth duster (complete with rhinestone buttons!). The duster is versatile - slip it on over a bathing suit, or wear it as a coat or as a casual dress. Columns not required. ;)