At some point during re-taking this batch, the sun went behind a cloud. Bear with me for the shoddy lighting.

Shoddy lighting yet again.

Closeup of collar.

Closeup of saddle shoulder.

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Dress pattern, Simplicity 2123, circa 1940s:

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Simplicity 2123 Pattern Review

Pattern Review: Simplicity 2123, circa 1940s

Pattern Description: Sharp 1940s dress with cap or three-quarter length-sleeves (as shown on back of envelope). Shoulder yokes are cut in one with the sleeves; these are made in contrast in style two.

Pattern Sizing: This was a 34 bust, which was way too large.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Sort of. I made alterations to the bodice (see below).

Were the instructions easy to follow? I ignored the directions and constructed the dress as I usually do.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I really like the interesting shoulder detail.

Fabric Used: Leftover cotton/polyester blend from another project for the shoulder, teal linen for the body.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I bought a pattern size which I thought would fit me but it was way too large or the pattern had way too much ease. The armhole was also too low — to the point of being indecent! I’m not sure if the low armhole is part of the style back then, but I drafted the bodice pattern again based on a bodice sloper. In my first draft, I saw that the gathers were too poofy in the linen. I removed the gathers and replaced it with tucks. When I was about done, I thought the green v-neck looked like a hospital scrub suit so I added some embroidery by the collar. I also drafted the belt based on the pictures. I waffled on this project for about a week. The skirt was cut, and the bodice was drafted, but I wasn’t sure if the dress was flattering enough to continue the project. There’s also a mistake with one of the tucks — I tried to lower it but it still came out too prominent. It doesn’t look that bad in reality, though.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes. I think I will have to draft the bodice again since the shoulder looks a little too high (when compared with the pattern), and it affects the way the cap sleeves look. I think I will also put the gathers back the way they are supposed to be, since it affects the silhouette of the bodice. I will also either interface the belt, or try to use a covered belt buckle (or any belt buckle) as opposed to the tie belt. The tie belt is cute, but it might get lost in the laundry.

Conclusion: This is a very unique project. I like the shoulder detail and the embroidery on the collar. I didn’t think this project would be wearable, but it surprisingly is.