Bluebird Blue 1930s Housedress

A little while ago I found a vintage pattern on eBay that I was so happy to get. It was very similar to another pattern I've owned for a while, but have not been able to make because it doesn't open down the front and I didn't feel like altering it so significantly. This one had the same features - pointed yoke with triple darts & little fold down collar with a plain neck option - but had a button front! Once it arrived, it quickly jumped to the top of my queue. 

 

I picked a favorite quilting cotton print in my stash to pair it with. I love this fabric so much - the blue is so vibrant, and the little coral and pink roses make it a bit different color scheme than most of my blue dresses. 

 

It does hide the details a bit (though they are more noticeable in person). I should make this pattern again in a solid color, maybe a jeweltone wool for fall so you can actually see the design elements. But meanwhile I am still happy with this dress.

 

 

It was pretty easy and quick to put together. My only trouble with fit is the back of the neckline gapes a bit, so next time I will adjust that. 

 

I have had these lovely peach buttons in my stash for a long time, always wondering what I could use them on, since they are so pretty but not a color I often wear. Once I was auditioning choices for this dress, I promptly settled on these since they are the same shade as the roses. I'm so happy to finally have the perfect use for them!

 

There is still enough white in the print to wear a white belt with it, though, and I tied that in by deciding at the last minute to add a rick rack insert to the sleeves, just for fun. I really like how it turned out! I used to think rick rack was only used for top stitching, but since I've found other creative ways to use it, it has risen in my estimation. Inserting it this way is a different way to add trim than just tacking something on at the hem all the time.

 

I really like how the triple darts shape the front, and also the dart fitted sleeves are a favorite detail. Again, they are hidden a bit by the print, but I know they are there. :-)

 

 

It's an easy to wear house dress, comfortable and cheery, suitable for various seasons. It doesn't show dirt easily, and doesn't need an extra layer on top. 

 

I'm happy to add this pattern and this fabric into my weekly everyday wardrobe rotation!

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Comments

[Sarah Rogers]

Very nice! What was the pattern name/number, and what size did you get? I think the late 1930's are wonderful for styles. I own two patterns from that time, but am very intrigued by this one as well!

[Kristen Stoltzfus Clay]

It was Advance 2454, and my pattern was size 16, so I sized it up a tad.
Yes, the late '30s/early '40s is my favorite sub-genre of the era.

[Rhonda]

I love the rick rack on the sleeves and the modest neckline!