Introduction

Peggy. I think.

September 14, 2009

Hello All!


My name is Jo and I’m making my first Sew Retro post by tossing this dress into the Mad Men contest ring. 


Here is the 1955 cheongsam pattern I used.


Try as I might, I couldn’t quite match the smug expression of the model on the envelope. I’m beaming because I finally used the Waverly Toile I scored for $3 a yard that was languishing in a storage bin. And I tied those frogs myself. If you’d like to read more about this dress please check this post on my blog. I’m a big fan of the sheath dress and this is my first attempt at one. I see more in my future.

Now when I asked my mom what character she thought would wear this and she said, “It’s a sheath so Joan.” Joan? Really? “Well maybe Betty.” Hmm. I think this is Peggy at her most sophisticated. The buttoned up-ness of it all, the not bold print, and it has a collar. It seems Peggy is all about the collar. But I’m open to suggestions. If not Peggy, then who do you think would wear this?
19 Comments

  1. Definitely Peggy. Joan would never wear something with that high of a neckline. Your hair is very Peggy too. That is a wonderful pattern. Great job!

    Reply

  5. I see you on the coller, but I definately think that this is Joan. Peggy wouldn't dream of anything Oriental (is that the PC word?)

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  6. I agree with the above commentor…Peggy is too girl-next-door, all-american gre up on a farm type for something so exotic. That said, I really like it!

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  8. Ooo! I have almost bought this pattern several times, and you have convinced me to take the plunge. Your dress turned out beautifully! I love your choice of fabric, and way to go for tying your own frogs!

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  11. Hi Jo – first up wow! I love that dress, and you've also inspired me to paint my sewing room sky blue! Second, welcome and I've added your name to the sewers list (sorry for the delay!). Take care.

    – Angela

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  12. Thanks for the compliments! The whole exotic mandarin-ness of the dress was what was causing the which character questions. I agree, it's a bit worldly for Peggy, but the image link Oldpatterns posted assures me that every now and then Peggy steps out of her box and shines.

    Reply

  14. Fabulous dress! I think this is something Rachel (from season 1) would have worn. I vaguely recall someone(Betty?) wearing a dress with a mandarian collar, but I can't for the life of me remember when!

    Reply

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