Thursday, December 12, 2013

In Progress: a 1940s Marian Martin Housecoat

Lest you think I gave up on my vintage Vogue 1930s dress, let me assure you that I persevered and finished it yesterday afternoon. At last! :) It finished without a hitch. The details of the pattern is what makes the dress, otherwise it would be quite drab considering the solid fabric. In fact, my sister commented that the fabric looked Amish.

::ahem:: Not exactly the look I was going for!

I went with the vintage rhinestone-studded button from my stash (my camera refused to pick up its clarity, so I apologize). This way I can wear silver, black, or even pearled accessories with the dress if needed.
 

 
I can hardly wait to slip into it for photos! I have a few ideas in mine for a photoshoot, and if possible, I hope to make that happen this weekend if one of my siblings are willing to take the pictures. Stay tuned!


After I put away my pattern, teal threads, and whatnot, I pulled out my new-to-me 1940s housecoat pattern. If you've been a longtime reader, you may remember this long sleeved flannel robe I made from the same pattern (though a size smaller). My older sister now owns it, and apparently I sold it to her for $14. ::blink:: You can barely buy 2 yards of flannel for that price, let alone 5 yards!!


I'm making the short sleeved version this time around and shorting the skirt by a good 13" or so. Part of the reason is because of the vintage fabric I chose for it (an antique store find for $3) was measuring about 3 yards. But I thought it'd make an excellent robe/housecoat for spring, summer, and autumn wear.


I was hoping to use some vintage lace for the collar, sleeves, and pocket, but I didn't have enough of what I had on hand. My next consideration was white piping, but I don't have any on hand, so I chose some vintage rick rack. One can never go wrong with using it! ;) In fact, I think I almost like the idea of the subtle touch rather than a glaring white piping or lace.


Have a happy Thursday!

7 comments:

MrsSM said...

What a beautiful pattern--I can't wait to see what you have done with it.

I also wanted to say that I really liked your reasoning for choosing the buttons for your dress--the way they will enable you to accessorize will make the dress so much more versatile. I can't wait to see that, either.

Cheri said...

MrsSM,

Thanks so much for your kind comment. :) I'm still working on the robe/housecoat, but hopefully will be able to squeeze in some sewing time before the week is over. Having sewn with the pattern once before, a 2nd time around is a little bit easier/faster.

Glad you liked my button choice! I was leaning towards that from the start and am glad I stayed with it. I'll share pictures as soon as I get get them taken! :)

Laura said...

Oooh, I'm sure that teal will look smashing on you! I'm glad it finished up well. I haven't gotten a chance to get started on anything for myself but I made the bodice for a little Christmas dress for Lavinia last night. It's "Nutcracker"/ballet-inspired. :)

The housecoat looks like fun sewing, and yes I think I do remember your first version!

Cheri said...

Laura,

Your sewing for Lavinia sounds really cute! Will you post pictures on your blog? :) When I was little I always wanted to be in ballet (Gymnastics was close enough I guess) and to this day I still haven't seen the Nutcracker. Someday... :)

~ Shannon said...

The sneak peek looks very promising, Cheri! I love the button -- very 30's and very glamorous. I can't wait to see more!

Also, that is the most marvelous robe/housecoat pattern I've ever seen! The pointed waist is just perfect!

Blessings,
Shannon

Cheri said...

Shannon,

Aww, thanks so much. It's always a help to hear words of affirmation from other gifted seamstresses. :)

Lily said...

I really love the understated ric-rac, can't wait to see the finished product! :-)