Pattern Patter : DesignRewindFashions

Wednesday, May 7, 2014

Neckline Styles Part I

By Mary Beth, RetroMonkeys

When choosing a pattern, there are many variables to consider. Necklines are one. We all hear the different terms for neckline styles. Some we have never heard of at all. Below are some sketches and descriptions of several necklines that you might choose for work, play, or evening wear along with some patterns showing the featured necklines.

This first selection includes some of the most basic necklines. The jewel neckline was very widely used in the 1950's and 1960's. It was an essential element of the demure dress.

Here are a few examples of the Jewel Neckline

Left to Right:

Simplicity 5702 by McCall's 7001 by ViennasGrace Vogue 7611 by AllThePreciousThings

Next is the V Neckline. From dresses to tops, the V neck Can be plain, ruffled, high or deep.

Left to Right:

Butterick 3731 by MBChills McCall's 3045 by Virtual Vintage Butterick 4456 by HeyChica

Cardigan Necklines can be found on some shirtwaist dresses as well as, to state the obvious, cardigan sweaters.

Left to Right:

McCall 6008 by DesignRewind McCall's 6583 by PatternShop Advance 8645 by Jantiki

Slit Neckline A popular alternative for decades! Especially popular during the 1970's on Caftans, Dashikis and Tunics.

Simplicity 1375 Simplicity 5043 Advance 9336 Vogue 7808
by RetroMonkeys by ErikaWithaK by Paneenjerez by CaliforniaSunset

U Neckline A basic fashion. The U can be deep or shallow. Deep U necklines are seen in jumpers.

Butterick 6009 Simplicity 2948 DuBarry 5793 Simplicity 8626
MaddieMod MonkeyandFriends SewBettyandDot AdeleBeeAnn

Stay tuned for more neckline styles!

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Swing Love

By Ally B. of DesignRewindFashions

Last year I went to my first fashion show, where I sat in a fancy room, drinking a sparkly drink and eating delicious food. The fashion show showcased local designers and one high-end vintage clothing shop here in Portland, Oregon. I was having a fantastic time when everything came to a screeching halt. On stage was a stunning, 1950s hot pink, satin opera swing coat with ivory lining. I always thought love at first sight was for the fool-hearted but here I was, eyeball deep in hot pink love…. Alas, my Neiman-Marcus coat was $500. But not one to relinquish my love so easily, I decided I would make my own.

McCall's 3836

I’ve sewn many things but never a coat. Using the colors of the opera coat as my inspiration, I found a vintage McCall’s 3836 coat that I thought could be a good beginner coat. Also, it would keep me warm and I could dress it up a bit with the right fabric choice. Though I loved the satin fabric in the Neiman-Marcus coat, I live where it rains a lot and I wanted a coat I could wear more often. My belief is a great coat hides a multitude of sins. Need to cover up that ratty t-shirt before you go to the grocery, no problem. Bad hair day? Pull your hair back and everyone will be looking at your coat. Ate a bit too much this past week – Its all good because you have A GREAT COAT! And what is so nice about a basic swing coat is it really can go anywhere at anytime - day or night. It should be a staple in every woman’s closet.

I am lucky to live by Mill End Fabrics. A fantastic fabric store that gets garment district fabrics at some very fair prices. I found this nude color wool that has a hint of pink and decided to line it with a nice quality, incredible hot pink satin.

Here is how mine turned out.

I’m really happy with the cut and the hot pink lined pockets make me smile.

Swing coats began in the 1940s as a way to work with the wider skirts that were in fashion at the time. They continue to be popular today though they have been modified a bit over time. Feeling a little daring? Make your own swing coat and just wait and see how versatile this piece of clothing really is. Here are some of my favorites. To find your own favorites, search PatternPatter Swing Coats on Etsy to see the great selection out there.