The other day I was flipping through a 1947 magazine (remember I mentioned I’m obsessed right now?), and this ad caught my eye. Between my natural affinity towards stripes (and polka dots; both are sure winners in my book!), the high waist and jaunty ruffle, I knew I had to make a version for my springtime wardrobe!
The fabric was a tiny piece leftover from 10 yards I purchased about four years ago from WalMart. At the time, I was heavily into historic costuming, and determined to make a late 18th century polonaise gown. Alas, that never happened, so this is what was left. I’m glad I held on to it during the Great Fabric Destash of 2008 (packing up to move to Florida!). I should trust my intuition more often about what I might use. lol! The skirt is a basic a-line that I drafted from a skirt sloper and added just a touch of fullness to gather to the waistband. Everything else was fairly easy to draft and make up. The only thing I did different from the original inspiration was attach a band of fabric at the hem, rather than ruffles. I didn’t have quite enough fabric to pull that off!
I haven’t worn it yet, but I think I’ll pair it with my favorite red sweater and my new heels. Classic with a twist! I just love these quick and easy weekend projects…
I like this! I can’t wait to see it paired with that sweater – one of my favorites
Oh, do show us the full outfit soon, lady.
Oooh, can’t wait to see! I love stripes as well, especially white & navy.
Ooh – it looks wonderful! Can’t wait to see the skirt when you wear it. That sweater is fabulous. Looks a little like Anthro.
I love it, casey! stripes are awesome.
So cute! Im such a stripes kinda of girl!
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Love, love love! I can’t wait to see it on you!
And one must ask, what happened to the rest of that 10 yards?
Oh that looks so cute, I know it’ll look great on you; I just love your style
I can’t wait to see it, too. Very smart, lady!
I love this, and cannot wait to see it on
I so want my sewing machine back, it keeps mucking up and seeing all these lovely things everyone seems to be making is just making my longing all the more!
Oh I wish I could sew! I can’t wait to see it on either!
Can’t wait to see the finished project on you! I love the inspiration!
What a fantastic thing to recreate a vintage item dirctly from your inspiration! I can’t wait to see the finished outfit!
So cute! Doesn’t it feel great to use up your stash?
My boss wears black and white stripes and red or acid green *every day* — she has a signature look and it really works for her.
Black & white stripes with a splash of red seems very Coleen Atwood to me, so you’re still kinda using this fabric for historical costuming. Sort of. I seem to be too tired to form a coherent thought, so I’ll just say I love stripes and looking forward to a picture!
It looks fantastic Casey! Thanks for participating in my giveaway
xxxx
i love it!
add.
I’m loving all your posts lately! Seeing the wedding, the new layout – all these terrific clothing inspirations and a rescue bunny (those are always dear to my heart). Good stuff!
Wow, very impressive. I agree – you have to show us the full outfit!
What a lovely and beautiful outfit! I too love taking classics and giving them a modern twist.
I’m delighted to have found your charming blog and look forward to visiting regularly