Most of my sewing projects end up not being terribly practical. I wear them a few times a year. But this robe definitely is practical, filling a need, and is a much used part of my wardrobe.
I needed something fitted, with fullness in the front, and not see-through. This robe fit the bill.
It's one of my earliest sewing projects, so it has plenty of problems, including unfinished and untidy seams, and slap-dash assembly. However, we all have to start somewhere!
Judging from the pattern graphics, it's late '30s - early '40s. One of my favorite fashion eras.
As you'll notice, I changed it around a bit, doing short sleeves and skipping the ruffle.
I usually pin it at the top, but even still since it just wraps on the front it needs to be worn over something. It could easily be altered to close up the front if desired - and was a good early sewing project since it was quite easy to put together with the long princess lines and lined yoke which eliminated facings.
I used a thrifted sheet, and cut the straight front panels and the sleeves on the border, which accounts for the decorative inserts. Just for fun.
I realized later the border adds a somewhat Art Deco touch, making it even more '30s style. Perfect!
On the sewing queue is another vintage robe pattern in flannel with long sleeves for winter, but for warm weather this is the perfect comfortable vintage-style wrap to wear over a nightgown and still be dressed adequately and not too informally in case a neighbor drops in unexpectedly!
Hi Kristen!!
I just started following your blog today - I don't know why I didn't sooner! I found you via the Vintage Visions Photo Contest, and I LOVE the garments you make! This robe is just gorgeous. I need to make something like this!
Looking forward to following along with your new projects, and checking out your past projects too! :)
Esther
www.dollycreates.blogspot.com
Posted by: Esther | 10/20/2015 at 07:16 AM
Hi Esther - so glad you found me! I've been reading your blog too for a while but probably never commented so you didn't know I was there. :-)
Posted by: Kristen Stoltzfus Clay | 10/20/2015 at 08:38 AM
Hi Kristen! I'm so glad too! And yay! I'm so glad to hear you follow my blog! :)
I was so excited to see a picture of the Pearl Harbor Pillbox Hat on here and realize that you're the inventor of that pattern! So neat! I love that pattern.
Posted by: Esther | 10/20/2015 at 10:10 AM
I'm glad you like the hat pattern! I designed that hat quite a few years ago and now would probably do a lot better with 1940s styling for the model, but we all have to start somewhere. Did you actually make a hat from the pattern?
Posted by: Kristen Stoltzfus Clay | 10/21/2015 at 05:47 PM
Yes, I did make one! The photos of it are from when I first started sewing and dressing vintage, so the styling isn't the most superb, but here it is: http://dollycreates.blogspot.com/2014/04/pearl-harbor-pillbox-hat.html
I should do another photo shoot with it soon! :) Maybe add some veiling or flowers.... And I would love to make it in wool!
Posted by: Esther | 11/04/2015 at 12:53 PM
Looks good! If you do another version, let me know so I can link to it.
Posted by: Kristen Stoltzfus Clay | 11/04/2015 at 08:47 PM