Every now and again you come across a truly beautiful piece of original vintage fabric. You carefully unfold it, hoping and praying that it’s in good condition. You check it over thoroughly, measure it and finally take the very brave step of washing it. At this point you’re on tenterhooks, will it fall apart the second the water hits it? It survives the wash, it dries well and then you press it, checking thoroughly once again for any holes, tears or marks. And finally, you realise you have one incredible pristine piece of 1930s/1940s fabric that’s long enough to make an entire dress. You, or indeed me at this point, then do one hell of a happy dance!
As you can imagine, I was terrified to cut into the fabric, but I truly believed that this fabric had found its way to me for a reason. I’m very much someone who believes in buying vintage and using it. Every piece of vintage clothing I buy gets worn, I don’t store things away in a dark cupboard but, rather, enjoy it as it was meant to be enjoyed. That was how I felt about this fabric. It needed to be made into something and not waste away unloved and unappreciated. And it deserved to be made into something authentic.
I used an original 1930s sewing pattern and original 1930s sewing techniques from both the pattern and a 1930s dressmaking book. The trimmings, such as the rayon hemming tape, were also vintage. The only modern parts of the dress are the white crepe I used for the yoke section and the metal button blanks for the self-cover buttons. That’s why I call this my brand new almost-vintage dress!
You can see more detail photos and find out more about the fabric, pattern and techniques I used on my blog here.
This is so wonderful. I agree that vintage fabrics should be used. And it looks like you chose the perfect pattern to bring the fabric to life! I love the fluttery sleeves and the buttons in the back.
Thank you Datura. Yes, I would hate to see a vintage fabric wasting away on someone’s shelf, or worse still being thrown away because the owner thinks it’s not worth keeping!
beautiful detailing – and such lovely fabric, can understand how you were nervous of the cut- it paid off wonderfully
Thanks Eimear! Yes, it took me a few goes before I actually made that first cut!
This is fabulous. It looks amazing on you. I would wear that dancing any day and the sleeves are perfect for it. Well done and congratulations. WOW!
Thanks Tam! Yes, the sleeves do fly out rather well when you twirl around. They’re definitely my favourite bit.
this is beautiful, i love the elegance of the era but you pull it off with so much style.
Wow, thank you Heather, that’s much appreciated!
This is lovely. It is the best vintage adaptation I have seen for a long time. And it suits you so well 🙂
Wow, thank you so much Rivka! That’s so sweet of you.