Vintage Pinafore Dress
Posted by The Tall Mama
A big trend is at the moment is the apron dress, pinafore, dungaree dress...what you call it seems to depend on where you live! There are many variations in skirt style and also in fastening, some have hardware which clip the straps to the bib, others zip or button or simply slip on over your head.
It’s a trend I’ve been a bit on the fence about. My style is fairly classic and I don’t really embrace very trendy items. That said, I had this pattern in my stash (I have a big collection of vintage sewing patterns that I pick up from op shops) and I kept taking it out and looking at it. I was really drawn to it and I wasn’t exactly sure why, so decided to make it up.
To make this 1973 pattern work for me I shortened the maxi length to be mid calf. I added 3 cm to the bid to improve the proportions but then had to take 3 cm out of the width of the waistband so it would sit at my waist. Once I had basted in the zipper I discovered that I could get it on and off with the zip done up (yay!) thanks to the stretch woven fabric so I omitted the zip.
I added 2 big patch pockets to the dress. I love pockets and add them to everything! To put my own special spin on the dress I monogrammed one of the pockets. I used black embroidery thread so it is a very subtle detail, but I love it!! Adding embroidery to a garment doesn’t always have to be a colourful statement!
One of the dresses on the pattern cover has an embroidered yoke, however I thought it was a little too 70’s looking for my taste. I love making vintage patterns, and fashion is cyclical so trends always go in & out of fashion, however I don’t like to look like I’m playing dress up. I want a modern take on the vintage style.
This dress has top stitching around the yokes and the waistband. I used the left edge top stitch foot (Item #: 412784245 ), which is an accessory foot you can buy for the Designer Jade 35 machine. Where has this foot been all my life?!! I was a little skeptical about it at first glance, but the moment I started sewing it was true love!! It is remarkable the difference it makes to your top stitching and hemming.
I am really happy that I took a chance on this vintage pattern and tried a style that was outside of my comfort zone. Of course, the Designer Jade 35 made it a pleasure to sew and personalize it with a monogram!
Happy Sewing!
Xox Allison