1950s Dresses Patterns Make A Nice Sewing Project

By Frances Miller


If a person wants to create something different, often vintage fashions are worth a try. Some of these have atypical cuts or details not found in modern apparel. One thing that is certain is the fact that if a person were to buy original clothing from a specialty retailer, they would find themselves paying a small fortune for a complete outfit. This is why some sewers find 1950s dresses patterns to be a more affordable option.

One thing that made I Love Lucy popular with women were the glamorous dresses Lucille Ball wore in many episodes. Most of the clothes the character wore came from top designers of the time, like Don Loper. Back then, clothes were made to fit the silhouette of the average woman who may have some ample curves.

While most of her wardrobe was full skirts and dresses with a petticoat for dramatic emphasis on the design. During this time, younger women wore the same style skirt but some had an image of a poodle near the bottom hem.

This period in fashion also brought the pencil skirt and mermaid dresses. Modern versions seen in stores are either made from a stretchy fabric or intended for those with a leaner body type. Having a pattern allows for minor adjustments, such as making extra room at the bottom or adding a waist control fabric. However, these are best when done by an experienced sewer or someone with pattern making experience.

For those with a fun side, making a poodle skirt to be worn with a cashmere sweater or short denim jacket is great for hanging out with friends. If finding a pattern is impossible, then make a full skirt as directed but using a clip art image can offer many possibilities. Either doing a direct transfer or creating an applique using fabric or rocaille beads is sure to catch the eye of others.

What is also fund were some of the hairdos. Pin curls are not only easy to do but a lot more comfortable than sleeping in rollers. These are also easy maintenance since the longer bobby pins remain in the hair, the more lasting the curl. Anyone who needs to run a quick errand can just put on a large knit cap or wrap head in a scarf.

Most women who wore a scarf outdoors tied it to the front with a bang underneath. Although this style is actually from the previous decade, some who are into retro styles may include this in their vintage wardrobe. Singer Andra O Day is known for wearing a scarf or headwrap in this style.

Any woman that wanted to up their fashion game wore seamed silk stockings before leaving home. Although most dresses were fairly long, pencil skirts and mermaid style dresses usually had a slit or opening that allowed a woman to show off her shapely calves. While some women may have worn ballerina style flats in casual situations, this type of hosiery looked best with stiletto heels.




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