Monday 28 December 2015

The Strawberry Girl



I'm going way back to the 40's for my next Vintage Pattern Pledge make with Butterick 5209 which is a 1947 reproduction. There are 2 views: halter neck or with capped sleeves. I made view B with the sleeves and I have to say I love it!


This was a bit of a drawn out project though from toile to finish. I had to adjust each pattern piece because I seemed to be a different size for every one of them. The bodice was size 8, midriff size 10 and the skirt was pretty much size 6 because I didn't want as much fullness - too many gathers is not a good look for me, I'm just not tall enough.


I used a black bemberg rayon lining instead of self lining as I just managed to squeeze this out of 2.5 metres of this cute strawberry polka dot quilting cotton which has been in my stash for ages waiting for the right project to come along. I know sewing garments out of quilting cotton is a big no-no for some people but I think it worked out really well for this dress, particularly with the fuller skirt.


The construction part of the pattern was pretty easy to follow although I did find the lining a bit fiddly but then again, I often do!


Overall, I'm super pleased with this dress ... and ... I've managed 3 Vintage Pattern Pledge garments this year!


I'm leaving you with this song (one of my favourites) 'cos I can't get it out of my head - Christine, the Strawberry Girl ...


8 comments:

  1. You never cease to amaze me! A beautiful fabric, a beautiful pattern and a beautiful dress. And phooey to those who have fabric rules...it's a bit like wine rules. They only apply to those who can't color outside the lines. And you can definitely color outside the lines!
    Happy New Year!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you so much! Yes, I've never really been one to stick to the rules - life's much more fun that way :) Happy New Year to you too.

      Delete
  2. Oh, this is beautiful! What an absolutely lovely silhouette, gorgeous design details and excellent fit! It's clear you put a lot of work into it and what a lovely dress you have ended up with! Do you think you'll make more of this pattern? x

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Ree! I think I will make it again some time, it's a really pretty pattern. The halter neck version would be nice except the back comes down really low which would make it impossible to wear a bra so I don't think I'll be doing that one.

      Delete
  3. This is gorgeous! I love the fabric, and its a perfect summer dress. Another pattern for the queue!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Lynne! Yes, the endless queue - it was on mine for a few years before I got round to making it! :)

      Delete
  4. Oh my! This is adorable! The style really, really suits you!

    ReplyDelete