1939 Vintage Simplicity Dress

There’s something so magical about creating a dress from an original vintage pattern. Especially when it is 75 years old! This is Vintage Simplicity dress pattern number 3302. And when I came to open the envelope the pieces were not only all present but in pristine condition too!.

I just fell in love with the sweetheart neckline and the elegant shape of the skirt. I don’t quite shape up to the lovely svelte ladies on the packet but then I guess they had slightly less food on the table in those days!

The sleeves are quite something. They are gathered and stiffened with silk organza and have an inverted pleat at the hemline. Pressing the seam onto the sleeve is very important. You wouldn’t believe how high they stick up on the shoulder otherwise!

I have a feeling the fabric might be vintage too. I scored it at my local charity shop for a fiver! It’s quite soft and far more drapey than I would expect cotton to behave. And it was only 35 inches wide. Possibly rayon?

More detail and pics over at ooobop!