Edelweiss Patterns This last month we’ve been busy filming a video tutorial which demonstrates how to sew a 1950s dress using our Liesl’s Party Dress pattern. With a few quick adjustments, the pattern easily transitions from early-1940s to mid-1950s by simply omitting the lower sleeve puffing, and cutting the gathered neck band out of your fashion fabric (instead of a sheer fabric).
A lovely ruched band of puffing lends an heirloom quality to this chintz cotton print dress. It would look just as charming in a bolder color print, or in taffeta or satin for a party dress. I share several photos from the 1950s that demonstrate similar frocks from that decade in the video below.
This style works so well with the self-fabric puffing at the neckline that I feel it’s almost a bit more flattering than the original. It’s closer to a bateau neckline, with tiny cap sleeves, a fitted bodice with trim waistline, and gathered gored skirt perfect for the last days of summer. I hope you all enjoy the video tutorial below! (In case you’re not able to view it below on your browser, the direct link is here.)
Supplies required:
Liesl’s Party Dress Pattern (paper or digital version)
Fabric: 45″: 5 1/2 yds. for Sizes 6-14 or 6 1/2 yds. for Sizes 16-20 or 60″= 3 yds. for all sizes
(You can purchase the same amount called for in the “Fashion Fabric” yardage requirements and ignore the sheer yardage completely – no need to purchase more, as you can fit the neck front & back bands into the extra width left next to the selvages)
1 yard of 45″ fabric for lining (I used a cotton solid for this dress)
Thread to match, 22″ zipper, & basic sewing supplies
1 package of 1/4″ double fold bias binding (usually 3-4 yds. in a package)
Satin ribbon for the waist sash, or a cinch belt if you prefer.
Helpful but not required: Tailor’s ham
Petticoat for 1950s silhouette (highly recommended for the correct silhouette)
Products/articles also shown in the video:
Wedding Tea by Harney & Sons
Maria von Trapp’s book
Five-Step Pressing Method Tutorial
Couture Rose Pattern for the fabric flowers worn in the video
This dress came out so wonderfully well in a summer cotton that now I’m dreaming of making it up in brown linen for fall – to wear on its own with high heel sandals on warmer days, or with a cardigan & ballet flats for blustery autumn weather…
Till next time, Happy Sewing!
Katrina Holte
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