Miss Dandy

Completed Project: 1970s Betsey Johnson High Waist Pants

2012-01-26T14:49:00.006-06:00

When I moved back to North Carolina almost 9 months ago, I unintentionally lost a lot of weight due to stress and other factors. I found that all of the pants and trousers that I'd put so much time into making no longer fit, which left me without a few essential wardrobe basics. So now, along with looking for thrifted vintage pieces, I'm trying to sew and build up my wardrobe again (with a 1970s slant, of course)! I used Butterick #3846 (a "Young Designer" pattern by Betsey Johnson) to make this pair of simple high waist pants:

Do forgive the dark and pixelated photos! I am well in need of a new camera (and some natural sunlight)!

I omitted quite a few details from the original design and opted to keep these pants extremely basic. I thought the extreme high waist fit and wide legs made enough of a statement. The original pattern design included huge patch pockets over the hips, round applique patches at the knees and a detachable bib.

I wore these out to lunch today and received a few nice compliments. The fabric that I used is a lightly slubbed medium weight denim-look cotton that I purchased with a huge lot of patterns at a local sale. I thought this type of fabric would be perfect for the transition from winter to spring - not too heavy or too light. The pants have a front zipper, wider than usual waistband and button closure.

I will definitely be wearing these often and I'm so glad to have a basic pair of high waist pants in my wardrobe again!

TOTAL PROJECT COST:

Fabric - approximately $1.00

Zipper - approximately $2.00

Pattern - $6.49 from Granni Gert's Attic @ Etsy

____________

$9.49

Sewing....How I've Missed You!

2012-01-11T14:53:00.003-06:00

I can't believe this, but it's been almost 10 months since I've posted anything here on my sewing blog. Without going into specific details, let's just say that I've been going though a major life change and I'm now a single mom working full-time. It's been extremely difficult and sewing (sadly) hasn't been a major part of my life recently. I feel like I've missed out on so many possible sewing projects and not being able to sew as much as I used to has been like suffering a huge loss....like I've had a creative hole in my life for the past 10 months.

Things are looking up, though! I have a new project in the works and my goal is to start sewing and posting here regularly again. Here's the pattern I'll be using, an amazing Betsey Johnson of Alley Cat pattern, circa 1974:

I'll be making the high waist pants, without the detachable bib, from a nice lightweight dark denim chambray, perfect for the transition from winter to spring. Definitely time to start thinking about a home sewn spring wardrobe!

Completed Project: Waves Print Dress

2011-03-23T20:34:00.003-05:00

This was a relatively speedy project for me! The total time spent cutting out and constructing was a little over 2 hours....because I didn't have to construct or hem the skirt!

I used an early 1980s pattern for the bodice, which is made from black ponte knit (the best knit fabric in the whole wide world to work with, by the way!). It has puff petal sleeves and I added a white embroidered floral collar to brighten up the bodice. The skirt is actually an upcycled vintage 1980s rayon skirt that I thrifted a while back. I love the crazy squiggly waves print and the bright primary colors! Altogether, a quite satisfying project for a very time-strapped person like myself!

Completed Project: 1970s Wide Leg Trousers

2011-02-10T19:08:00.005-06:00

So I've finally resigned myself to the fact that I will probably only be updating this blog whenever I complete sewing projects which, at my current sewing rate, will be about 1x per week. I'm just in love with posting on my Tumblr blog, which I actually do daily, so check me out over there if you'd like!

My latest completed project is a pair of wide leg trousers that I made from an early 1970s Butterick pattern designed by Betsey Johnson. I think the design was actually inspired by 1940s-style trousers but with a much more exaggerated silhouette for stylin' 1970s seamstresses. :) These were really simple to make: several top stitched pleats at the front, a 7" zipper at the back, and a wide waistband with a button closure. I used a slubbed black and white rayon/linen blend fabric that I scored from a local thrift store for $4.00.

I'm really happy with how they came together. I'm obsessed with high waist, wide leg trousers (just as I'm obsessed with 1970s fashion in general) so I have 3 more (different) pair in my sewing queue waiting to be made. They are so comfy and breezy and perfect to wear up until it gets really hot during the summer!

1960s Fashion Inspiration: Who Are You Polly Maggoo?

2011-01-31T21:42:00.007-06:00

From Criterion: After nearly a decade as American Vogue‘s most subversive fashion photographer, William Klein made this wild, pseudovérité incursion into the world of Parisian haute couture. Elegant, scathing humor ties together the various strands of this alternately glamorous and grotesque portrait of American in Paris Polly Maggoo (Dorothy MacGowan), an Alice in Wonderland supermodel who becomes the pinup plaything of media hounds and the fragmented fantasy of haunted Prince Igor (Sami Frey). Klein’s first fiction film is a daring deflation of cultural pretensions and institutions, dressed up in brilliant black and white.

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This is one of the penultimate fashion movies of the 1960s. According to William Klein, Dorothy MacGowan retired from modeling after this movie was released. The amazing Peggy Moffitt also puts in a few cameos (see below). All screen caps were done by me - please enjoy! Please click on the images for a closer view - it's worth it!

Miss Dandy @ iNDie Boutique - Downtown Springfield

2011-01-26T16:26:00.005-06:00

For those of you who live in Springfield, I dropped off a few new designs at iNDdie today:

Dress made from the unholy union between an upcycled 1980s "bedazzled" t-shirt and 1970s Holly Hobbie fabric.

Simple vintage floral print blouse with silk dupioni bias binding around the neckline.

1970s-style top made from argyle print knit fabric and raspberry ribbed knit.

1980s wrap skirt that I didn't make, but I did applique the 1960s screen printed doll illustration onto the front!

French New Wave Treasury @ Etsy

2011-01-19T09:38:00.004-06:00

I've been using Etsy since 2006 and finally got around the creating a treasury this morning. The theme is French New Wave cinema:

Be sure to click on the screen capture to see it full-size. Also, here's the link to the actual treasury!

Images from Collection Elegance Paris, 1966

2011-01-17T12:12:00.003-06:00

Here are a few images that I've scanned from Collection Elegance Paris - an amazing fabric catalog from 1966 which features all sorts of gorgeous designer clothes. What's really neat is that there are swatches for every single piece of fabric shown in the catalog - everything from Irish linen to Italian wool! And these fabrics were insanely expensive for the time - $12.50 per yard for Italian wool in 1966!

Model striking an iconic 1960s pose.

Lovely suit in teal linen with a polka dot blouse.

The scalloped collar on this jacket is to die for!

I love the matching green hat, large green glasses and floral brooch.

Such a pretty pink pleated dress!

White double-breasted coat with green piping = LOVE.

On the sewing front, I've been busy finishing up a few UFOs (unfinished objects). Most of them are projects that I just lost interest in halfway through, but I'm tired of the clutter so my goal is to finish them by the end of the month! There is a blouse from a Simplicity Cynthia Rowley pattern, a 4-panel skirt from a 1970s pattern, and a 1940s blouse with a bow collar. I will be posting them as I finish!

Completed Project: 1970s Floral Brushstroke Dress

2011-01-12T15:03:00.005-06:00

Here it is: my first completed sewing project of the year! I used Butterick #4393 (a 1970s Jane Tise young designer pattern) to make this dress which has a shaped yokes, a casual, flared silhouette and 3/4 length puffy sleeves.

I was originally going to make the blouse, but I decided to make the dress since my wardrobe is severely lacking in them. For the yokes, collar, front tab and cuffs, I used grey cotton shirting from Jo-Ann's. The sleeves and body are made from lovely vintage 1960s floral brushstroke print cotton fabric that I found at a local thrift store for a mere $2.00! I used a fabric-covered button for the front buttoned tab.

Although it has a pretty unstructured fit, this was quite complicated to make, mainly due to the self-lined yokes, puffy sleeves (TONS of gathering), side seam pockets and topstitching. The construction put many of my sewing skills to good use.

Here is a scan of the pattern - it is definitely a keeper!

New Year, New Sewing Goals

2011-01-11T20:06:00.007-06:00

Shame on me for letting my blog sit idle for a whole month! In my defense, the holidays were insanely busy (as always) and I have been kind of preoccupied with my Tumblr blog, which has been a fun place to post numerous scans of fashion and sewing photos that I have collected over the years. Plus, BurdaStyle has a really fab blog over there too!

So it's a new year and, as usual, a new year comes with new goals - new sewing goals to be specific! I've already finished my first project of the year - a dress made from a 1970s Jane Tise sewing pattern (which I will post tomorrow). So I'm well on my way towards my new goal of finishing at least 2 sewing projects a month. This may sound super-easy to many of you but, as a mom to a newly walking and talking toddler, it's pretty difficult to find the time (and the momentum) to sew anything more complicated than a skirt.

A second big goal of mine is to start creating and posting sewing tutorials here. I already have lots of ideas jotted down in my journal. Many of the tutorials will involve working with vintage and upcycled clothes and other materials. Tips on how to thrift and sew on the cheap will be a big factor in these, so please stay tuned!

My third goal is to continue posting photos of my personal style & outfits, at least 2x per week. I think I've actually posted 2 photos since I first stated that I was going to do this several months ago. Time to hold myself accountable!

And, lastly, I want to spend more time visiting other sewing and fashion blogs. Inspiration and admiration are great motivators! If anyone has any suggestions for some fantastic sewing and fashion blogs to check out, please let me know!

1970s Space Dyed Goodness

2010-12-11T15:01:00.005-06:00

Nothing reminds me more of winter than vintage "space dyed" sweaters! I LOVE them! Here are a few amazing sweaters that are for sale on Etsy right now:

Hooded bell sleeve sweater - $46.00

Same hooded bell sleeve sweater as above, different color - $32.00

Zip-Up Sweater - $26.00

Striped Sweater with Orange Ribbing - $26.97

Miss Dandy @ Tumblr

2010-12-05T12:00:00.004-06:00

Hi, Guys! I now have a Tumblr account where I'm posting tons of vintage fashion photos as well as 1960s and 1970s pop culture photos. I try to update with at least 5 photos a day, so please follow if you'd like. So far, I'm amazed with all of the cool stuff that I've seen on Tumblr!

There's a Chill in the Air!

2010-12-04T15:08:00.004-06:00

From a 1968 Mademoiselle magazine: amazing sweaters, wool skirts, scarves and hats!

Miss Dandy @ First Friday Art Walk, Downtown Springfield

2010-12-02T16:58:00.006-06:00

For those of you who live in Springfield......I will be doing some "live" sewing @ iNDie tomorrow night (December 3rd) from 5:00-9:00 for the downtown First Friday Art Walk! YAAAAAY!

More Childhood Nostalgia

2010-12-01T10:54:00.003-06:00

Check out this cool vintage child's winter accessories pattern from 1984! It's for a fuzzy bear scarf, hat, mittens and ear muff covers. This pattern really takes me back....I would have been the perfect age for these in 1984 (7 years old, to be exact!). I remember standing outside waiting for the bus in the chilly weather, hating the ear muffs that my mom made me wear! Do kids even wear those anymore?

I just put this in my pattern shop if you'd like to see more details!

Broken Ghost Couture @ Etsy

2010-12-01T10:13:00.005-06:00

I stumbled across Broken Ghost Couture's shop on Etsy the other day. I'm a big fan of designers who use upcycled and vintage materials to make one-of-a-kind clothing, and this shop has some truly amazing handmade gems for women and children! There are two of my favorites:

If I had a little girl I would buy this immediately!

Girls' THE SPY WHO LOVED ME Mod Dress.

Super-cute holiday dress!

Girls' LIGHT UP MY LIFE Holiday Dress.

THANKSGIVING SALE @ My Etsy Vintage Pattern Shop!

2010-11-24T18:17:00.005-06:00

I'm having a 30% off sale on all inventory from my Etsy vintage pattern shop! The sale is running now through Sunday 11/28 @ midnight. Most patterns are now only $3.50 each! Here are a few of my current favorites:

Have a happy Thanksgiving!

A Few New 1970s-Inspired Designs!

2010-11-23T15:32:00.004-06:00

Finally! Here are a few fun new designs that I finished recently. As most of you know, I have an unabated love for all things 1970s (especially 1970s fashion), so these are both inspired by my favorite decade!

Babydoll dress made from all upcycled and vintage materials. The bodice are sleeves are made from bright pink polyester double knit. I used an upcycled vintage 1970s bias wool plaid skirt for the skirt. The embroidered collar and button are vintage, too! Currently available in my Etsy handmade shop.

Cozy pullover top. The oversized cowl collar, sleeves and waistband are made from vintage poly/cotton stretch knit fabric. The bodice is made from what was once a 1970s button-front shirt. Currently available in my Etsy handmade shop!

xoxoxo

Inspiringly Stylish Female Musicians

2010-11-21T21:16:00.004-06:00

A few of my favorite (and stylish) female musicians for some inspiration. Enjoy!

Sewing is Fun

2010-11-15T20:00:00.003-06:00

Amazing vintage 1959 children's sewing book! Currently in the ismoyo shop at Etsy.

Betty Oatmeal @ Etsy

2010-10-31T19:16:00.005-05:00

Earlier today, I was "window shopping" around Etsy, looking at what's new from a bunch of my favorite sellers. One of my all-time favorite sellers is Karen Davisson of Betty Oatmeal, whose garments are made utilizing vintage sewing patterns and a mix of reclaimed and upcycled fabrics. Her designs are always really stunning, but these western shirts completely knocked my socks off:

Loretta, a western shirt.

Everything is so perfect about this. From the pink piping to the smocked fabric cuffs to the floral fabric to the images of Loretta Lynn. I freaking love this!

Austin, a western shirt.

Another work of wearable art. More like a masterpiece, actually! Truly inspiring.

What I Wore - #2

2010-10-28T20:44:00.005-05:00

Finally! There was a nice crisp chill in the air today, so I pulled out a scarf and sweater to wear. It's been the warmest fall here in Springfield!

Outfit Details:

Vintage raspberry boucle sweater - Thrifted

Woven Scarf - Target

Belt - Target

Vintage cream open-front sweater jacket - Thrifted

High waist jeans - Macy's (hmmm....these kind of look like "mom" jeans, but I'm actually okay with that.)

I'm looking forward to the Project Runway finale tonight (although the season has been pretty awful as a whole). GO MONDO!!! His unabated love for houndstooth and bright colors cannot be denied!

What I Wore - #1

2010-10-26T13:29:00.011-05:00

A few weeks ago, I had mentioned that I planned on attempting to document photos of my daily outfits to post here. It's been a little over a year since my son was born, and I wanted to do this mainly as a way to motivate myself to get out of my "new mom clothing rut" - a.k.a. wearing only sweats and t-shirts all day every day. So here's my first "What I Wore" post!

Oufit Details:

Handmade 1970s Polyester Tunic - found @ a church rummage sale

Grey T-Shirt - thrifted

Skinny Belt - Banana Republic

Jeans - Sears, I think

Black Boots - Nine West "Casilda" boots from Zappos

I'm wearing this outfit today. I fell in love with the polyester tunic top the moment I laid eyes on it...and it was only .50 cents! Best of all, it's handmade. In fact, I think I've seen the 1970s Simplicity pattern for sale on Etsy recently. These are the only pair of "skinny" jeans that I own. Love them, but they tend to get baggy at the knees after a couple hours of wear. Would love to make a pair of the Burda Style Anita skinny jeans someday. The black belt has been a part of my wardrobe for 10 years! I just bought the Nine West boots and they are super-comfy. I think they look like granny boots from the late 1960s which is a bonus!

What I've Been Working On Lately

2010-10-25T14:00:00.007-05:00

Long time, no blog! :)

I've been working really hard lately to make a bunch of pretty wearables to add to my Etsy shop and also to take to local downtown Springfield shop iNDie! Here's a little peek at a what I've been working on lately:

Comfy top made from unicorn print cotton stretch knit fabric that I salvaged from a vintage 1980s dress. Although the actual construction of the top is finished, I am currently in the (long) process of hand sewing star shaped sequins onto the tip of each of the unicorn's horns. Yes - I am insane! I'm only 1/4 of the way done, but I think the end result will be worth it!

This dainty little vintage-inspired dress makes me think of tea parties! It's made from grey suiting and the wide fitted midriff empire waistband and cowl collar are made from vintage cotton knit fabric.

That's all for now! Off to do some more sewing...

I really wish I could knit...

2010-10-11T21:30:00.004-05:00

...because this is my dream 1970s hooded sweater jacket! Isn't it perfection?

Many years ago, I did actually did teach myself how to do basic knitting. And while I picked it up quite quickly, I decided just as quickly that I didn't have the patience or the dedication for it. Same with quilting - way too tedious and time-consuming for me, although I can see how both quilting and knitting could be quite zen-like for others. I gravitate towards sewing clothing because (when I actually have the free time) most things can be finished in one evening! This sweater jacket will probably continue to haunt me, though....

Vintage Pattern Shop Weekend Sale!

2010-10-08T16:58:00.006-05:00

Yet another week has passed with no posts! I hate falling behind, but some things just can't be helped. To be fair, my son Brydon's 1st birthday was this week, so a lot of my time was devoted to that. :)

I wanted everyone to know that I'm having a weekend sale at my Etsy vintage pattern shop! Everything in the shop is 30% OFF ALL WEEKEND LONG, starting now through 12:00 a.m. Sunday night (well, technically that's Monday morning). Everything has already been discounted for you so purchasing and checking out is easy! By the way, this sale means that most patterns are around only $3.50 each! And I've stocked the shop with some really sweet finds! Here are a few of my favorites:

Vintage 1970s Halter Jumpsuit & Jacket - 34 Bust

Vintage 1970s Three-Piece Suit - 34 Bust

Early 1960s Dress & Jacket with a Unique Button-On Scarf - 36 Bust

Kenzo Back-Wrap Halter Dress or Top + Pants - 29 Bust

Vintage 1970s Front-Buttoned Dress or Top + Wide Leg Pants - 34 Bust

Classic Early 1960s Dress with a Fitted or Full Skirt - 34 Bust

McCall's Mod "Wrap-Arounder" Dress - 37 Bust

Interesting Late 1960s Dress with Different Bodice Trims - 36 Bust

Cute-As-Can-Be 1970s Babydoll Dress - 33.5 Bust

Vintage 1960s Space Age Stewardess-Style Dress - 34 Bust

Vintage Pattern Love

2010-10-01T11:34:00.004-05:00

For lack of anything else to post, here are a few patterns I've found on Etsy recently that I just love!

1980s blouse with double-breasted front closure.

Chic 1970s brimmed hats.

Super-cute 1970s stretch knit cowl neck dress and leggings.

1960s Norma Tullo young designer dress with a sashed midriff.

1980s blouse for sweater knits. Love the exaggerated sleeves!

Sexy 1960s sheath dress with a shaped keyhole neckline.

Have a great weekend, everyone! I definitely plan on doing some sewing and will hopefully have some things to post next week!

New Shoes + Sewing Machine Upgrade

2010-09-30T15:07:00.005-05:00

I haven't had too much free time to blog lately....or to visit other blogs (insert sad face emoticon here). I just finished making a few more one-of-a-kind pieces for iNDie here in Springfield and now I need to get back to sewing pants for myself since the weather is finally supposed to turn chilly this weekend!

I'm also finally going to add some new shoes to my wardrobe. I know there are lots of cliches about women being completely shoe-crazy.....I am not one of them. I think I have maybe 6 pairs of shoes in my closet, at least 4 of which I've had for over 5 years at least! I usually try to buy quality shoes that will last a long time, so I don't feel bad investing a little extra money in a pair of shoes. Here are the ones that I hope to get within the next few weeks:

Bass "Gloucester" heels. These are really classic and have a vintage feel to them. Can't tell you how desperately I need a pair of basic black heels!

A couple weeks ago, I finally broke down and tossed a pair of black Nine West Mary Janes that I'd had for 8 (!) years. These are the "Shivver" Mary Janes from Ecco. I tried them on at a local department store last week and they are crazy comfortable!

Yellow Box "Samantha" t-strap wedges in taupe. I really, really need brown shoes too, and I think these are really cute.

I have a pair of tall brown suede boots that I bought from The Walking Company 10 years ago. They are amazing and probably have another 5 years of wear left in them. I really want a pair of black boots, too. These are the "Casilda" boots by Nine West. I love the late-1960s vibe of these, and they are flats as well. I'm not a big fan of boots with heels so these will be perfect!

I've also decided that it's time to save up for a new sewing machine. I've had my current sewing machine for 10 years. It's a late 1990s Singer with a 4-step buttonhole feature and 5 stitches - an extremely basic machine and the motor is really, really L-O-U-D. I will always have a special place in my heart for this machine since it is the machine on which I learned how to sew and I can't even begin to imagine how many garments I've made with it! However, I feel that it's way past time for an upgrade. After lots of research, I think I've decided on the Janome Threadbanger tb30:

Isn't is beautiful? It's still a pretty basic machine, but it does have a larger variety of stitches, 6 different one-step buttonhole stitches, is computerized and, best of all, sews quietly. I do have a Janome serger which has been a really dependable workhorse of a machine, so I'm really confident with the Janome brand. Hopefully I will be able to get this machine before it's discontinued...I think it's been on the market for 2 years now. Anyone else had experience with this particular sewing machine?

Tavi Gevinson and Childhood Nostalgia

2010-09-20T14:19:00.007-05:00

I will admit that I had absolute no idea who Tavi Gevinson was before the most recent New York Fashion Week. I'm sure that most of you know who she is but, for the uninitiated, Tavi is the 14 year old girl behind the fashion blog The Style Rookie. She was a mere 11 years old (!) when she first started posting photos of herself wearing remixed vintage and writing quite eloquently about everything from couture to pop culture. Since then, she has become quite influential in the fashion industry and is a muse for couture labels like Rodarte and Commes des Garcons. At the recent NY Fashion Week, she had a coveted front row seat at many of the most anticipated runway shows, and her presence in the fashion world has been met with mixed feelings from many. I, for one, think she's pretty darn cool and here's a simple visual equation I made that I think sums up her current personal style:

If anything, Tavi and her obsession with fashion makes me kind of nostalgic for the time when I was 12 years old. Back then, the things I liked to do most was read Sassy magazine (a big inspiration for Tavi now), watch Brady Bunch re-runs and read Betty and Veronica double digest comic books. Why, you ask? I didn't realize it then, but it was for the clothing.

I know that the early 1970s wardrobe of the Brady family is universally reviled, but I was absolutely obsessed with it. The Betty and Veronica double digest comics I used to read in the 1990s were actually just compilations of Archie comics from the 1960s and 1970s and, well, Betty and Veronica have always "worn" the most fashionable clothing. I remember spending hours in my bedroom drawing pictures of women wearing 1960s and 1970s style clothing, much of it copied directly from what Betty and Veronica were wearing. How I wish I had kept those drawings! There must have been hundreds of them. And why my interest in fashion and sewing lay dormant until I reached my early twenties....I guess I'll never know!

And back to Tavi....if this video of her dancing to Abba's song "S.O.S." doesn't make you nostalgic for when you were 12 years old, then nothing will!

xoxo

Completed Project: The Perfect Wide Leg Pants

2010-09-18T18:45:00.007-05:00

Anyone who reads this blog knows that I have an all-consuming love for 1970s fashion, so wide leg pants are an absolute must for my wardrobe. I've been searching for the perfect wide leg pants pattern for a very long time, and I knew that I'd finally found it when I saw BurdaStyle member Reneebies version of the high waist pants from Vogue 8604.

You're probably wondering why I didn't just use a vintage 1970s wide leg pants pattern - right? Well, I have used 1970s patterns to make pants before, but I fell in love with the built-in extremely high waist design of this Vogue pattern, plus the legs are super-duper-mega wide!

I anxiously grabbed the pattern during a sale at my local Hancock Fabrics and I already had some trouser-weight denim on hand that needed destashing. Add the zipper and 1/2 yard of lining fabric for the pockets and the resulting pants only cost me $20.00 and a few well-spent hours of my time!

It was so nice to actually get dressed up and wear these today just for the heck of it! My son turns 1 year old on October 6th and, being a new mom, this past year has been a particularly unfashionable one for me. After my pregnancy, I quickly fell into the all too easy and convenient sweatpants and t-shirt routine. My hips also spread 4" and, although I am roughly back to my pre-pregnancy size, those hips just aren't going anywhere. So I had to completely get rid of my former pants and skirt wardrobe. And since I prefer to sew my own clothes, I'm in desperate need of pants and skirts....mostly pants.....and it's taking me an eternity to build my wardrobe back to where I want it to be.

I also want to give myself motivation to dress up everyday so, by October 6th, I hope to take daily "what I wore" photos and post them here, if not everyday then at least once week. Here's the breakdown for today's outfit:

Pants: Handmade

Shirt: Vintage 1970s - thrifted for $1.00

Necklace: Kohl's

Belt: Banana Republic on big-time sale

Shoes: Doc Marten Mary Janes

xoxoxoxo

My Sewing Soundtrack

2010-09-17T23:34:00.004-05:00

Music is an absolute must for me when I'm sewing. I just finished making the pants from Vogue 8604 tonight (they are the perfect pair of wide leg pants, by the way!) and this is a sample of my latest sewing soundtrack, all of which contribution to the completion of the pants!

A Little 1960s Inspiration....Just Because!

2010-09-14T11:18:00.006-05:00

I have a bad habit of saving random images onto my computer without keeping track of where they came from. I saved all of these images because they are connected to the 1960s in one way or another and, well, I LOVE 1960s fashion.

When I lived in Los Angeles many many years ago, I was fortunate enough to attend a 1960s "Mods and Rockers" themed film festival at the Egyptian Theatre. I had already been long-obsessed with 1960s pop culture, but this specific event is what inspired me to teach myself how to sew with the hope that I would eventually be able to make my own 1960s style dresses. Hopefully you will find these images as inspiring as I have!

Models from the 1966 film Where Are You, Polly Maggoo?

Mia Farrow during the filming of Rosemary's Baby.

Twiggy wearing the most exquisite babydoll mini dress!

Amazing 1960s color block dress.

Lush red babydoll dress with all of the most drool-worthy details (sheer balloon sleeves, pintucked bodice, buttons and a bow!).

Linen color block dress with a keyhole peek-a-boo bodice.

Sylvie Vartan wearing a snappy Peter Pan collar dress and jacket.

I love oddly-shaped collars like this one! These were used heavily during the 1960s, especially on little girls' dresses.

Detail of a stunning layered petal petal bodice from a 1960s Vogue Couturier pattern.

Built By Wendy - Fall 2010 Collection

2010-09-10T21:14:00.008-05:00

Probably the only contemporary designer whose designs I've followed on a regular basis throughout the years is Wendy Mullin.

She has made quite a name for herself in the home sewing community with her books on sewing, most notably her first book Sew U: The Built By Wendy Guide to Making Your Own Wardrobe. And then there are the Built By You series of sewing patterns that she designed for Simplicity (the majority of which are now sadly out of print).

Her transition from self-taught home sewer to designer is quite inspiring, and you can hear her tell the whole story in her own words at Craftsanity. It's a must-listen for anyone who loves sewing and fashion design!

The Built By Wendy Fall 2010 collection was launched online today. It's heavily inspired by traditional menswear, early 1980s New Wave fashion and preppy Ivy League collegiate styles. Here are a few of my favorite pieces:

Blue Waffleneck Shawl Collar Sweater

Klee Foral Loose Top.

Herringbone One Piece Jumpsuit.

Mies Side Button Dress.

Herringbone Loose U Top

Wool Gabardine Tap Pants.

Pattern Making Books

2010-09-05T16:41:00.007-05:00

For years I pondered whether or not to go back to school for fashion design. When I say "go back to school", it's because I already have a degree in filmmaking (which, unfortunately for me, I got before I started sewing and - literally - could not stop thinking about sewing!). Missouri State University offers a degree in fashion design and I recently weighed the pros and cons of attending. The cons far outweighed the pros - I have a young son who deserves all of the attention I can give him, my husband is currently going to school full time, the thought of borrowing more money for school sends me into a panic and, ultimately, an official fashion degree would be worthless to me since I like working independently and making limited, one of a kind designs. I do, however, want to learn how to make my own patterns. That's where these books come in:

I got them through our public library (which is a pretty darn fabulous one!) to "preview" before actually investing in them. Patternmaking for Fashion Design is massive! It's filled with 800+ pages of detailed pattern making goodness. Draping for Apparel Design is shorter in length but just as detailed. Up until now, I've used basic vintage patterns and mixed-&-matched or altered the pieces to make my designs a reality. I want to eventually move away from commercial patterns altogether, but I know it's going to take a lot of hard work and will take a long time. I figure that I can devote at least 60 minutes per day, and will probably begin with the flat pattern drafting book. Does anyone have experience working with either of these books or have recommendations for others like it?

Fashion Icon: Diane Keaton as Annie Hall

2010-09-03T13:54:00.007-05:00

This was inspired by a post on 70s New York Fall Style from the cool fashion blog Stars We Are.

I love 1970s fashion, especially the layered, sophisticated and liberated American style of 1970s New York. If I could swipe the wardrobe of any movie character of any era, it would be the wardrobe worn by Diane Keaton in Annie Hall which embodies this 1970s New York style.

Technically, the title of this post really should just be "Fashion Icon: Diane Keaton" because the outfits she wore in Annie Hall were all inspired by her own distinctive style. Here's a collage that I made from various photos of Diane Keaton and scenes from Annie Hall which, if you haven't already, you should find and watch immediately (click to see the full-size collage):

Here are tons of fun vintage items that I've found on Etsy that embody Diane Keaton's signature Annie Hall look:

1970s Calvin Klein wardrobe pattern

Another 1970s Annie Hall style wardrobe pattern

Late 1970s dress pattern

1970s plaid wool jumper dress, which Annie Hall would have worn with a turtleneck sweater

1970s wool tweed blazer

1970s caramel-colored corduroy blazer

1970s striped turtleneck sweater

1970s stacked heel loafers

Vintage black vest / waistcoat

Vintage 1970s lace-up leather Oxfords

Set of vintage Ralph Lauren silk neckties

Avant Garde upcycled ascot necktie

Vintage Pendleton wood fedora

1970s oversized plastic sunglasses

Love...1970s Style

2010-08-30T14:42:00.010-05:00

Yikes! I really fell out of the habit of blogging during these past two weeks...too many things to do and way too little time, as usual. Sadly, I'm going to have to withdraw from Self-Stitched September (insert frowning emoticon here). I signed up with the best of intentions, but life with an 11 month old baby-soon-to-be-walking-toddler makes sewing and taking photos very unpredictable. There's always next year, I suppose....

Now for the new post!

I have a small collection of 1960s and 1970s "mini magazines" that were published by Simplicity, Butterick and McCall's and given away at fabric/sewing shops as a really cool marketing tool. This is one of my favorites from McCall's; there's no copyright date, but it's definitely from the early 1970s! I like the theme of this one, which seems to be "Love 1970s Style" with the oh-so-happy couples modeling butterfly collars and wide-leg pants with the usual pattern company styling and sincere enthusiasm that I find so endearing. Be sure to click on the images to see them full-size!

And since the theme of this post is "love 1970s style" I wanted to post this gem, which I found in a Redbook magazine circa 1975 which tries to sort out the complicated cross-relationships between a handful of celebrities:

And here's a collage that I made of my favorite 1970s couples (click to enlarge):

(First row from left to right): Ali Macgraw & Steve McQueen, Todd Rundgren & Bebe Buell, Sid Vicious & Nancy Spungen, Diane Keaton and Woody Allen.

(Second row): James Taylor & Carly Simon, Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin, Vivienne Westwood & Malcolm McLaren, David Bowie & Angela Bowie.

(Third row): Angela Houston and Jack Nicholson, John Cazale & Meryl Streep, Maureen McCormick & Barry Williamson, Julie Christie & Warren Beatty.

Lastly, here's a new (vintage) pattern that I added to my collection last week! I've been looking for this particular pattern for a really long time and had to break my "no pattern buying" rule to get it. The 1970s John Kloss Butterick patterns are sexy, simple and amazing. Plus this particular dress pattern has only 3 pattern pieces. Yes - only 3 pattern pieces! With my extremely precious and limited sewing time, I should be able to make this within a few hours so it's going to be my next sewing project. Hopefully, the next post will be of me wearing this dress!

"Life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans...."

2010-08-16T13:59:00.009-05:00

I don't know which John Lennon song this quote is from ("Beautiful Boy", maybe?) but it kind of sums up my sewing activity as of late - tons of plans to sew like crazy, but no time to follow through because, well, life doesn't just conveniently pause for a moment (or several hours) just because we want to make a dress, does it?

While rummaging through a box of patterns that I have queued to put in my shop, I found a cool 1970s Vogue poncho pattern with a list that was jotted down by the original seamstress, as well as a newspaper ad for a big sale on Pendleton wool fabric:

Like myself (and many other home sewers out there), I'm sure that this person had the best of intentions to start and finish this project. She made a detailed list of notions, fabric and lining that she needed to purchase to complete the project. She even clipped out a sale ad for Pendleton fabric, (which would have been a stellar choice for a poncho, by the way). How do I know she never made the poncho? Well, the pattern is still factory folded and the list and ad were both neatly tucked inside, never to see the light of day until 40 years later. It makes me wonder what happened? Why didn't she follow through or even begin the project? Like many of us, I suspect that the answer is simply: LIFE.

Here's a scan of the Vogue poncho pattern, by the way! Isn't it lovely?

Completed Project: Burda "Marilyn" Trousers

2010-08-12T14:58:00.009-05:00

I was able to steal a few minutes today to finally take photos of my completed Marilyn trousers (taken outside in the 100 degree heat, no less)! I used a lovely brown herringbone wool/rayon blend suiting to make them - a steal at $6.00 per yard at Jo-Ann Fabrics. This is the first time that I've used a Burda pattern and, even with the limited diagrams, the trousers were pretty simple to make and I am anxious to use Burda patterns again! I'm really pleased with these and will definitely be wearing them often this fall and winter.

The only alteration I did add was to an extra inch to the length because I think the cropped version from the original Burda photo looks quite awkward:

1970s-Inspired Chloe 2010-2011 Winter Collection Ad Campaign

2010-08-09T14:03:00.007-05:00

I'm really taken with the ad campaign for the Chloe winter 2010-2011 collection! The photos look like they were taken from a 1970s high fashion magazine, especially the first one. I love-love-love the high waist wide leg pants!

Here are a few vintage patterns that I found on Etsy this morning. Now you can make your own version of the laid-back 1970s style designs that are featured in the ads!

$14.00 from thevintagebungalow.

$7.00 from allthepreciousthings.

$10.75 from ZipZapKap

$14.75 from pintucksew

$5.00 from SewingWithMissDandy

$10.00 from SewingWithMissDandy

Yes, it's safe to assume that I have fall/winter clothing on the brain. There's a heat index of 107 degrees here in Springfield today! I am so ready for cooler weather! Are any of you longing for the crispy coolness of fall? Here's a sneak preview of my Marilyn trousers, which I completed last night:

They are made from a not-so-summer-friendly brown herringbone wool/rayon blend suiting. Ironically, they are the polar opposite of the wide leg pants featured in the Chloe ads!

Pattern Giveaway at Rhinestones and Telephones!

2010-08-08T10:31:00.003-05:00

To celebrate the announcement of her charming and ambitious fall/winter sewing project, Sarah at Rhinestones and Telephones is having a giveaway for a bunch of cool vintage and retro sewing patterns! You have until August 11th, so click here to visit the original post to enter!!!

Miss Dandy Designs at iNDie Boutique!

2010-08-05T16:43:00.003-05:00

Here's another reason why I don't ever have time to sew for myself....I'm currently consigning one-of-a-kind clothing that I make to an amazing local downtown Springfield boutique called iNDie! All of the clothes that I make for iNDie are specifically made from pieces of upcycled vintage clothing. Here are a few of my most recent designs (which I dropped off at the shop today!):

1970s style mini dress. The skirt, decorative button and armhole trim are are made from pieces from an upcycled 1970s floral corduroy skirt. The sweetheart bodice is made from organic cotton and the flutter sleeves and belt are made from a really pretty green cotton.

This pullover top is made from a chopped up rainbow striped vintage 1970s top. The original top had a seriously pointy butterfly collar that just had to go! The cuffs, neckband and waistband are made from white cotton knit and the back of the top is made from vintage lime green butterfly print knit fabric.

Babydoll top with puff sleeves and a wraparound belt. I used fabric from the most amazing vintage 1970s African print maxi skirt to make this top! I found the skirt at a local estate sale a couple months ago. I don't wear maxi skirts and bought it with the ultimate intention of using the bold print to make something else.

I plan to finish my Marilyn trousers this weekend but, after that, I'll have to put all sewing for myself on hold for a while because the Apple Cider Days festival is just around the corner! Camille at iNDie has reserved two booths there where she will sell things from local designers and I want to have lots of things made for it!

Completed Project: 1960s Plaid Mod Blouse

2010-08-01T15:24:00.008-05:00

I actually finished this blouse several days ago, but put off taking photos until yesterday. Taking photos is one of my least favorite things to do. My camera is an older one, and if I try to take photos without a flash, the resulting photos always turn out blurry (thus two mildly blurry photos below). The finished garments always look much lovelier in person, so my photos never do them justice. Sigh!

Here is the mod blouse that I made from the pattern and fabric shown at the end of this post. This is an almost perfect blouse! I successfully lined up all of the plaids at the front and the sides. I did, however, manage to mess up the cuffs at the very last minute. Instead of affixing the button to the under lap extension and the buttonhole to the overlap, I switched them. I didn't realize the error until after I had made and cut the buttonhole. So the cuffs are backwards (and are sticking out and look like men's dress shirt cuffs). However, unless you are a sewer, I think it's pretty unnoticeable. It has rather boxy fit and will look much better tucked into a fitted skirt or a pair of trousers (both of which I have yet to make!).

Photo taken with a flash to show the details of the fabric, which has a lovely color combination. There are sparkly gold lines that are a part of the plaid that you can't see in the other photos. A flash is good for something, I suppose!

Showing off one of the backwards cuffs with a contrasting button that I made from bits of the leftover plaid fabric.

The one addition that I had to make. Since the fabric is pretty lightweight, the top corner kept popping out from under the collar. I had to sew on a snap to keep it in place and it's invisible under the collar.

It only took me 4 hours from start to finish to make this blouse. The fabric is a lightweight cotton plaid cotton that I purchased from Jo-Ann's for $3.00 (labeled as a juvenile novelty fabric!) and the collar and cuffs are made from mustard yellow quilter's cotton. Total cost, including buttons: just under $6.00.

And here is a wrinkled muslin that I made of the Burda Style Marilyn trousers! Amazingly, the only alteration I need to make is to let out the waistband by 1"! Everything else fits perfectly...I was pretty shocked! For anyone who wants to make these, the construction is super-easy. Although it's a muslin and I quickly machine sewed what I would usually finish by hand (like the waistband and the hem), they only took 2 hours to make.

I'm in love with the pleats! These have a very low vote on Burda Style right now - only 2 out of 5 stars. I don't understand why since they are a classic trouser design. The tapered legs, which are the trendiest thing about them, could be easily adjusted for a fuller fit. I have a curvier figure and the high waist and pleats work for me. In other words, they don't make me look huge which is what I believe a lot of others think these trousers will ultimately do.

Contemporary Pattern Lust

2010-07-29T21:18:00.007-05:00

I have a confession to make....Lately, I've found myself becoming more and more interested in contemporary sewing patterns. There! I said it!

I used to make everything from vintage sewing patterns, but ever since I've been a member of Burda Style and have been reading more and more contemporary fashion sewing blogs, I've started to lust after several specific patterns. So enamored am I, that I am seriously considering adding these to my pattern collection and swapping out several vintage patterns to make room for them!

I have seen the Beignet skirt literally everywhere on the web lately. High waisted designs really suit my figure and I've become accustomed to making lots of buttonholes, so the bazillion buttons on the front aren't as intimidating as they look!

The Sew Convert has made several lovely versions of the Macaron dress and, of course, I have seen many other versions out there. Again, I think this would suit my figure and the endless fabric combination possibilities are an exciting prospect.

Although I've been gravitating towards more fitted designs lately, I'm still a sucker for a good pair of comfy wide-leg trousers! The plaid version is featured on the Sew Tessuti blog. The only drawback about this pattern? It's from 2007 and is out of print!

Cute and simple tops. I fear that I may have to withdraw my pledge to take part in Self Stitched September because I'm only averaging the completion of one garment per week and I don't have enough handmade clothing to wear every single day of September. I need to focus on simple separates like this top if I want to make any progress at all! The lovely red gingham version is featured on the Bura Ellen blog.

I immediately fell in love when I saw these cute denim shorts on Burda Style (made by DarcyFarcy and featured on the front page for a couple days, too!). I like that she didn't make the bubble version pictured on the envelope, which looks completely odd. I may be able to make these before the end of summer (fingers crossed)!

Another high waisted skirt that I've seen just about everywhere lately. Erica B. just posted her version of this skirt several days ago and it is so incredibly pretty! I like the attached belt that ties into a bow in the front.

I'm not wild about all of the tops included in this pattern, but I do love the view with the dolman sleeves that was made by Satomi and posted on Burda Style. It looks slouchy (that's a good thing), stylish and comfy all at the same time.

A free pattern from Burda Style that I've recently downloaded - the Kasia skirt. And, since it's free, there are many different inspiring versions out there....180+ completed Kasia skirts can be found on Burda Style alone! I already have the fabric chosen to make this. Soon.....

And last, but not least, these high waist Marilyn trousers from Burda Style. I like the pleats at the front and the tapered legs. These are going to be my next sewing project! I have already downloaded it and pieced it together + I purchased some lovely brown herringbone suiting fabric to make them - YAY!

Joan Holloway....BEFORE Joan Holloway!

2010-07-28T13:59:00.003-05:00

I found this vintage Advance sewing pattern about a year ago and saved it because the illustration of the lady in blue reminded me so much of Joan Holloway from Mad Men. She has literally the same hairstyle (plus the red hair!) and, of course, this is an early 1960s Mad Men era pattern! What do you think of the uncanny resemblance?

A Look Inside VOGUE PATTERNS Magazine - July/August 1975

2010-07-25T13:09:00.008-05:00

Here's a look inside another fabulous 1970s issue of Vogue Patterns magazine! This one is the July/August 1975 issue so it has a great mix of summer and early fall fashions. Be sure to click on the photos to enlarge them so you can read the text!

Does anyone know who this model is? She was absolutely everywhere during the 1970s...she did lots of modeling for Vogue patterns and I think she was a favorite of Halston too!

I have a hard time believing what this ad claims...that double knit fabric can be made to feel and look like linen, silk, etc. I swear it's just not scientifically possible!

This is an interesting side note on how Sonia Rykiel finishes the hems on her couture garments versus the Vogue technique.

This issue introduced Karl Lagerfeld / Chloe patterns into the Vogue patterns cannon.

"Fall Firsts" in glorious plaid!

A brief profile of Sonia Rykiel. Her pattern run with Vogue was quite limited, I think. I do know that her patterns are super-rare and highly collectible, though!

I love the detailed line drawings included with these designer pattern layouts. It's hard to see most of these details in the model photos.

Finished Project: 1970s Chambray Dress

2010-07-23T16:07:00.007-05:00

Here's the first completed projected from my whittled down sewing pattern collection: a denim chambray dress with contrasting yellow stitching and buttons! The total cost of materials, including the vintage pattern, was around $12.00. The 100% cotton fabric is quite wrinkled in the photos; I've been wearing the dress all day and it's super-comfy!

Now for the truth......I don't know what to think about this dress just yet! It was easy enough to sew (although the front placket and collar band gave me some minor troubles) and it's insanely comfortable to wear, I'm just not sure if I like the "tubular" shape or the side slits or the curved hem. I don't think the tubular shape is particularly flattering for someone like me who has a curvier figure. A belt will probably solve the fit issues, though. Oh! And here's my next project:

I'll be making view A (without the bow, though) and will use the plaid cotton fabric pictured above; the contrasting yellow fabric will be the collar. Hopefully I'll have it finished by this time next week!

A Good Reason NOT to Sew

2010-07-22T15:51:00.007-05:00

I try not to post photos of my son Brydon on this blog since it's a vintage sewing blog and I like to stay on topic. However, I couldn't resist posting a few photos of him since he wore his vintage 1960s Winnie-the-Pooh blue gingham romper today. This romper is nothing short of amazing - check out the pointy white collar and buttoned belt! And the appliques of Winnie the Pooh and Rabbit are also belt carriers! Genius! Funnily enough, my husband said: "It makes him look like such a...baby!" Ha ha! I guess there is a current trend for dressing babies in adult-style clothing with skulls and guitars and shorts and sneakers. I would love to have some professional portraits made of him wearing this but, for now, my ancient camera will have to do!

A lot of people ask me why I never sew for Brydon.....well, first of all, he's growing way too fast to make it economical. I have made a handful of things for him and plan to keep them for him to have one day as heirloom items. I would like to make him some 1970s style corduroy bellbottoms to wear once he starts walking around though! Second, I just don't have time to sew for him. I barely have time to sew a simple blouse for myself! But I have discovered that he is the only reason in the world that makes it perfectly okay for me NOT to be able to sew. It was hard at first not being able to sew whenever I wanted and as much as I wanted, but I have learned to adapt and work around his schedule. He does like to visit fabrics stores with me, though - he likes to feel the different fabric!

Here are the Winners!!!

2010-07-19T13:09:00.004-05:00

First of all, thanks to everyone who took the time to enter the giveaway and check out my pattern shop! In fact, the response to the giveaway was so great that I've decided to not only giveaway a $25.00 gift certificate, but also 2 $10.00 gift certificates! I assigned everyone who entered a number by the actual placing of your comments (if you linked back to the original post or commented on a fave pattern from the shop, you were assigned 2 different numbers), plugged them into a random integer generator at random.org, and here were the results:

Winner of the $25.00 Gift Certificate:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

80 - Fog City Vintage & Such

Timestamp: 2010-07-19 17:46:23 UTC

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Winner of a $10.00 Gift Certificate:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

42 - Allison (from www.afuzz.tumblr.com)

Timestamp: 2010-07-19 17:46:50 UTC

----------------------------------------------------------

Winner of a $10.00 Gift Certificate:

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

11 - The Long and Winding Bobbin

Timestamp: 2010-07-19 17:47:09 UTC

If you are a winner and have not yet heard from me, please contact me at: missdandy [!at] hotmail.com so I can give you the details.

Thanks again to everyone who entered....please stay tuned to my blog because I will be featuring giveaways like this often!

And So It Begins...The First Project!

2010-07-14T15:01:00.003-05:00

Here's the fabric, pattern and notions that I will be using to making the first project from my newly reduced seamstress-friendly sewing pattern collection:

I'll be making the dress - view B. I think it will be perfect to wear during the rest of the hot summer months and I believe I will be able to get a lot of wear out of it this fall as a layering piece! I absolutely love chambray so that's what I'm using. The photo makes it appear a little darker and heavier than it actually is. This pattern requires lots of top stitching, so I'm going to use contrasting bright yellow thread for that. And top complete the look - bright yellow buttons for the front placket!

I just had to show everyone this vintage pattern from 1965. Sadly, it's a super small sub-teen size (31" bust). I think the illustration is one of the neatest I've ever seen, though - it looks like everyone's having a great time, listening to the latest Beatles or Kinks 45, no doubt! I just listed this in my shop this morning if any of you would like to take a peek at the back of the envelope.

Pattern Collection Collage

2010-07-13T20:13:00.004-05:00

Here's a digital collage that I've made of my pattern collection - all 50 of them! The image has been shrunk by Blogger, so be sure to click it to see the full size version:

I begin the first project from my whittled down collection tomorrow! First, I will post photos of the pattern, fabric and notions that I will be using and then I will take photos of my progress along the way. I'm so excited!

The Final Cut: Dress Patterns

2010-07-12T20:50:00.010-05:00

Whew - that was incredibly difficult! I have finally gone through all of my patterns and whittled them down to 50. It's just completely insane how many patterns I actually had! Actually, 50 is more than I wanted to keep, but I just couldn't cut it down to less no matter how hard I tried. Here are the 23 dress patterns that I chose to keep (and eventually make):

1970s Betsey Johnson wrap dresses. Versatile and perfect for layering!

Late 1940s/early 1950s Vogue pattern. I love the geometric lapped bodice design!

Late 1970s pleated yoked dress. This one is so cool!

1970s Jane Tise loose-fitting dress. I love this style of dress.

Late 1960s space-age dress. I especially like the color block version and the optional pockets on these are really cute.

Another 1970s comfy, unstructured dress.

1970s-meets-1940s Jane Tise dress!

Probably my favorite of the Built By You patterns! I like the tops, but really want to make the dress.

I adore the scalloped front closure on this 1960s dress! Honestly, I've had this pattern for a ridiculously long time - it's time to finally make it!

Very similar to Butterick 4865 above, but I like the fact that this dress has no closures and includes a pattern for an obi wrap belt.

Wish I had more 1970s John Kloss patterns, but I always get outbid whenever I find one on Ebay! Anyhow, I love this dress design with the surplice bodice and attached wrap around belt.

I've actually made the top a couple times and the design is really flattering. Now I need to make the dress!

Clever design by Kenzo. I love how the dress serves a dual purpose as a petticoat beneath the wrap skirt.

Another Kenzo pattern, another unstructured and flared 1970s dress!

Yep. More Kenzo! This probably counts as a separates pattern, but I like the look of the blouse and skirt, so I will probably end up making them to be worn together as an outfit.

Not a huge fan of the sleeves, but I love the yoke and bow tie collar!

Again, the sleeves on this one are a little too puffy for my taste. But I really love the collar and pin tucks, so I will make this one with modified sleeves.

This 1960s pattern is so cute! I've made this before for a Christmas party a couple years ago and I need to make it again.

Another cute 1960s mod dress!

This 1970s pattern is really unique. The back bodice wraps around and ties in the front, which I love!

I've used the bodice and puff sleeves from this pattern to make dresses from vintage skirts. Now I want to make the actual dress pictured (and, yes, it does have a "great fit" as the original seamstress noted)!

Another Betsey Johnson design! I don't really like the hooded dress (looks too much like a caftan), but the version with the collar is a keeper!

Saving the best for last - one of only four pre-196os patterns left in my collection. The draping is amazing, as are the shirred shoulders.

So that's everything! I won't be buying any more vintage sewing patterns. This is it, until I've sewn my way through every last one. The rest of my collection will be listed in my Etsy shop! There is a book with contemporary designer sewing patterns - Twinkle Sews - that I would like to add to my collection, as well as a few select patterns from Burda Style, but my plan is to get started next week on my first project from these 50 patterns.

I don't know if any of you can relate, but I've spent so many years sewing exclusively for so many other people that my own wardrobe is - in a word - PITIFUL. I hope you'll follow me on my journey as I make and build my own wardrobe one sewing pattern at a time!

xoxoxo

$25.00 Vintage Pattern Shop Gift Certificate Giveaway!

2010-07-11T21:57:00.006-05:00

I'm featuring a giveaway for a $25.00 gift certificate to use towards the purchase of any patterns from my Etsy shop! There are a few choice 1950s patterns and tons and tons of 1960s and 1970s patterns.

To earn a single entry, all you have to do is leave a brief comment in the comments section. To earn a double entry, you can do one of two things - link back to this giveaway through your own blog OR visit my shop and comment here on which of the patterns from the shop is your favorite!

I will use a random number generator and contact the winner next Monday, July 19th - YAY!

Miss Dandy Dresses at Packrats in Columbia, SC

2010-07-04T15:00:00.005-05:00

I'm currently consigning a few of my handmade dresses at the newly opened handmade/indie/vintage shop - Packrats - in Columbia, SC. I was excited to find a few photos of the dresses artfully displayed at the shop courtesy of the Shop Tart! Since I live halfway across the country from the actual shop, I was thrilled to see the dresses in action and just had to share them!

Hope everyone's having a nice 4th! My husband's at work and my son is way too young for loud fireworks (plus he's always in bed by 6:00 anyways), so I'll be stuck inside, hopefully weeding through more of my pattern collection and maybe even doing some sewing! xoxoxo

Miss Dandy is Now Registered With Bloglovin' - Oh Yeah!

2010-07-03T22:11:00.001-05:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Thanks!

Round Two: Separates, Skirts, Pants, Coats, Jackets and Accessories Patterns

2010-07-03T21:10:00.010-05:00

I weeded out more of my pattern collection today. Here are the various accessory, skirt, coat/jacket, pants and separates patterns that I've decided to keep (and I just realized that all but one are circa 1970s!).

Separates are the best because they give you more bang for your buck! I love the jacket/blouse with the fitted midriff, the flared skirt, the Bermuda shorts, the pants...well, everything about it!

I adore the wide leg pants in this pattern - they are very reminiscent of 1940s style pants. And what girl doesn't need a simple wrap coat to compliment her wardrobe?

Really pretty raglan sleeve blouse, wide leg pants and flared skirt.

I like the fact that this pattern offers two different styles of pants - wide leg and straight leg. The vest is cute, too!

Simple to make Betsey Johnson hooded coat/jacket that could be adapted for many different seasons.

I'm in love with the over sized pointy collar on this 1970s coat! The fact that it was designed by Betsey Johnson also helps.

Reversible hooded poncho for those rainy days.

I know, I know - this is very similar to the Betsey Johnson pointy collar coat, but I love the fact that this coat has a hood and utilizes extra large buttons!

I've made the drawstring skirt before and I still want to make the wrap skirt with the super-wide waistband. Not a huge fan of the long tiered skirt, but the other styles make it worth keeping.

Every seamstress needs a fitted pencil skirt pattern in her collection! I had several, but this is the one I decided on.

Cute A-line skirt and flared skirt pattern. Both are must-have basic wardrobe separates.

This pattern offers lots of different skirt styles, which made it a definite keeper.

I used this pattern to make several quick cotton shorts for the spring and summer. Easiest pants pattern ever and, even though the only closure is a drawstring at the waist, they are very flattering!

I wanted to keep this one, not for the purses, but for the obi wrap belts!

My only hat pattern. Not a huge fan of the scarf/billed hat, but I love the floppy brimmed hat and the fedora style hat.

The First Cut is the Deepest: Blouse and Top Patterns

2010-07-02T21:04:00.009-05:00

I've started to pare down my large pattern collection to a smaller and much more seamstress-friendly collection and - WOW-OH-WOW - it's been really difficult.

I began with blouse/top patterns. I tried to cut them down to 10 patterns to keep, but blouses and tops are really important for someone like me who wears more skirts and trousers than dresses. So ended up with these 12 (and a good variety of styles, I think):

Awesome 1940s blouse. My favorite is view 2 with the sleeve cuffs and large buttons.

One of my favorite blouse patterns ever! I made the "Into the Woods" blouse with this one so I just have to keep it so I can make more like it.

Just a really simple and classic 1970s blouse pattern. It's timeless, actually!

I'm a big fan of slouchy 1980s t-shirts, so I had to keep this one. I've made several of the view 4 tops (love the boat neckline) and they are super-comfy.

1970s babydoll blouse pattern. I actually thought I no longer had this before going through my collection to pare it down!

Another 1980s slouchy top. I love the raglan sleeves and the gathered neckline.

Classic 1960s mod blouse with a couple collar and sleeve variations.

Another 1940s blouse pattern. I'm a sucker for bow tie collars.

Okay - yes - this is the 3rd slouchy top pattern of the bunch. But this one had a hood and an optional kangaroo pocket so I need it. I really do!

Simple 1960s sleeveless blouse pattern - another timeless basic for the collection.

I really like the different style variations of this 1980s pullover blouse pattern. Lots of sewing possibilities with this one!

I have a great affinity for Wendy Mullin and her Built By Wendy line. I'm actually getting rid of many of her Simplicity Built By You patterns, but I had to keep this one because it's a racerback tank top pattern and who doesn't love to wear those during the spring and summer?

Starting From Scratch

2010-06-29T23:56:00.003-05:00

This is a post for anyone who, like me, obsessively collects vintage sewing patterns, fabric and sewing notions.

I've been thinking a lot lately about how having all of this sewing stuff actually keeps me from sewing...it slows me down. Meaning that it usually takes me an eternity to choose a project from all of my patterns (and it actually takes an eternity to go through all of the patterns!). I like buying patterns because each one represents the exciting possibility of a future project or garment that I could make and wear one day. But what's the point of having said pattern if you file it away and completely forget that it exists and never end up make anything from it anyway? The same goes for fabric. And just because there's a $1.00 pattern sale at Jo Ann's or a huge bag of old crazy colored zippers or ridiculously low priced fabric at a thrift store, does that really mean that you have to buy them just in case that perfect project idea comes along one day?

Don't get me wrong - it's not like I'm drowning in sewing patterns and fabric here, it's just that I have finally (after a very, very long time) realized something about myself: there is truth to the saying "a cluttered house leads to a cluttered mind." Less is more for me. Too many choices actually mess with my head and I either procrastinate or give up, sometimes in the middle of a project due to the distracting need to move on to another one.

In order for me to be the best, most productive seamstress that I can be, I need to get rid of (almost) every sewing item that I own and start from scratch.

So that's what I'm going to do. I'm going to whittle down my sewing pattern collection to 20-30 patterns. I'll be keeping most of my favorites (most of them Butterick Young Designer patterns from the 1970s) and a couple basics. Same goes for fabric, buttons, zippers, notions, etc. My goal is to sew through these patterns, then buy patterns and corresponding fabric ONLY when I'm absolutely ready to start a new project and see it through to the end. I will post all of my collection here and document each finished project. I actually want to work on learning how to draft my own patterns, so maybe I can eventually do away with commercial patterns altogether!

Kind of a wordy post, but I had to put everything down in words so I can be held accountable. As soon as I decide which patterns to keep, I will post them all here and get started on the first project! Wish me luck on choosing which ones to keep...it's going to be difficult!

Vintage Romper Patterns Galore!

2010-06-24T21:47:00.008-05:00

Rompers / Playsuits are really popular right now. Although I haven't made one myself, I've seen some pretty cute handmade ones on Burda Style recently. I currently have a TON of vintage romper patterns in my pattern shop. Here are a few highlights:

Strapless button-front romper / long jumpsuit and hooded cover-up - $6.00.

Set of 3 strapless rompers, including a bubble romper and a wrap-around romper - $6.00.

Overall-style capri-length jumpsuit, short romper and jumper dress - $5.00.

Funky front-zip kimono sleeve romper and jumpsuit - $5.00.

Bohemian short bubble romper and long jumpsuit with gathered neckline - $5.00.

Front-zip romper with raglan sleeves and a front-wrap mini or maxi skirt - $5.00.

A Few Random Things

2010-06-22T19:13:00.004-05:00

It's taking me way longer than I'd planned to finish my current sewing project. It's actually more of an ensemble piece - a button front shirt and drawstring waist shorts. I'm using a 1970s Kenzo pattern to make the outfit and the shirt was quite complicated to make. Now I just have to finish the shorts!

Onto another topic: I love Burda Style. Let me re-phrase that: I am IN LOVE with Burda Style!

It is such an amazing place to see mind-boggling creative sewing projects and meet other fellow sewing enthusiasts. I've been sewing for a really long time and can't believe that I just joined about a month ago! I'm kind of ashamed to admit that I haven't ever used a Burda sewing pattern to make anything...yet! ;)

Every week, the staff features a few members' projects on the main page. Here are a few of my current favorites (they are all incredibly inspiring!):

1960s sleeveless wool dress by Lily_Bart. Impeccably made from a 1960s Vogue Couturier pattern - need I say more?

Large Pocket Work Skirt by The House of Hearts. Super-cute skirt with cheerful yellow pockets made from reclaimed fabric. Perfection!

Chocolate Viscose Blouse by baroness. Amazingly too-cool-for-school mod blouse with matching orange gingham (!) fabric buttons and neck scarf. I need one of these!

Black, white and plaid blouse by smbriones. Gingham again, this time used to make a neat-o mod blouse with a Peter Pan collar and bow tie! To die for!

Maryy variation dress by tinybows. This seamstress churns out the most amazing creations at an enviable pace. And they all look just as cool as this 1990s grunge-style halter dress!

And onto another completely unrelated subject....I'm not sure if I have many (if any) Australians who read this blog, but it seems to me that home sewing is HUGE in Australia! I also have a vintage sewing pattern shop on Etsy, and at least half of my sales are from Australians. So I'm curious - is there a home sewing revolution going on in Australia? I'm hugely interested in the topic of home sewing, so if anyone can shed some light, I would appreciate it!

Vintage Patterns of the Week

2010-06-21T16:14:00.004-05:00

Here's a fun mix of vintage patterns and fabric that I found on Etsy this week!

I love the unusual inverted darts/pleats on this classic 1950s skirt. A mere $4.00 from ChigalsPatterns!

Coolest jumpsuit pattern EVER! $10.00 from SelvedgeShop.

Loose-fitting 1970s bohemian dress designed by Carol Horn! Includes pants and two different purses. Super-affordable at only $6.00 from SewTennessee.

This is my ideal summer top! Easy to make and loose-fitting with a 1970s bohemian edge. My favorite is the view 4 top. $5.00 from SewSewAgain.

Last is this 1980s jumpsuit pattern, which I think is most flattering in the capri-length version, but would make for a super-cute summer romper too! $4.95 from BlueCatVintage.

I already have too many pieces of floral vintage fabric, but something about the crazy colors in this vintage challis really appeals to me! $5.00 for a half yard piece from PintuckSew.

I've always been in love with crazy colors and patterns. This piece of vintage mod pop art fabric would make an amazing skirt! $13.00 for a little over a yard at SelvedgeShop.

A Look Inside VOGUE PATTERNS Magazine - May/June 1975

2010-06-19T20:16:00.008-05:00

I lucked out about a year ago and won an auction on eBay for 20 issues of Vogue Patterns magazine for only $20.00! And all of said issues are from around 1973 to 1979, so I am going to slowly but surely share them all with you! Here's a peek into the May/June 1975 issue.

You can tell that home sewing was a big deal during the 1970s from the amount of money (lots of beautiful on-location photography and detailed styling) and care that was put into each issue. The featured model in this particular fashion editorial (shot in "Mystic India") is a very young Jerry Hall! Remember to click on the photos to see them full-size - you won't want to miss all of the amazing details of these fashions sewn from Vogue patterns!

The three photos above remind a lot of the cinematography from the 1970s Australian film Picnic At Hanging Rock. Everything is so blatantly romantic and Jerry Hall is stunning!

The epitome of 1970s bohemian-chic! The close-up of the first photo was used for the cover of this issue - I NEED those platform sandals, by the way! The horse print batik fabric used for the hooded caftan above is amazing!

Gorgeous evening dresses. The orange dress was made from a Jerry Silverman designer Vogue pattern. The photo of Jerry Hall in the green dress is my favorite one from this issue!

Amazing hot pink halter top, high waist pants and jacket sewn up in fuchsia pink cotton. I love how the male model in all of these photos is basically just a prop. Ha ha!

Introducing a new bunch of designer patterns from Giorgio di Sant'Angelo - robes and dresses that are specially designed to be made from sheets! I'm pretty sure Vogue's translations of Sant'Angelo's designs were limited to the 2 or 3 in this issue - he had a very short run with Vogue, so I guess they weren't very popular.

And now for a few ads! There's an ad for Qiana by Du Pont in nearly every issue that I own. Same with Trevira fabrics, whose illustrated ads are so pretty!

I have a few spools of 1970s Coats & Clark Dual Duty thread on that trademark gold spool just waiting to be used. I seriously doubt that any advertiser today would dare put so much text into an ad!

Completed Project: Into the Woods Blouse

2010-06-17T18:18:00.005-05:00

I'm on a roll! Here's my latest completed sewing project - a blouse that I made from Simplicity Simplicity 8927 (copyright 1970), View 2. There are so many design elements that attracted me to this particular blouse pattern: the small collar, the raglan sleeves, the retro mod style and the front closure which is actually a zipper concealed by a front placket.

The fabric is a cute Heidi Grace forest print with tiny birds, ladybugs, flowers and trees! The contrasting small collar and front placket are made from the same organic white cotton that I used for the trim and pockets on the 1970s apron dress. I used 6 tiny birds from the fabric to make the non-functional fabric-covered buttons for the placket.

This blouse was a cinch to make - only 4 hours from start to finish, so I recommend it to anyone who wants to make a cute little mod blouse in no time at all! For my next project, I'll be making an outfit from a 1970s Kenzo "young designer" pattern: a pair of paper bag waist bermuda shorts and a blouse made from a crazy vintage 1960s space-age print cotton that needs to be de-stashed!

I've Been Tagged!

2010-06-15T15:30:00.006-05:00

The lovely Lisette at the Vintage or Bust! blog has tagged me. This is the first time I've been tagged and the questions are really fun, so thanks!

1. You must get the haircut/style of a cartoon character. Who would you choose?

Josie from Josie and the Pussycats - she has the cutest mod bob!

2. Name one vintage style/type of garment/accessory from your favorite era that you could do without.

Hmmm....I really love 1970s fashion, but I could probably do without the over sized eyeglasses/sunglasses that came back into style several years ago.

3. What fabulous fabric do you have that you will never make anything out of because you are afraid to ruin it?

I have a piece of vintage 1950s sheer burgundy dotted swiss fabric stashed away. I've had it for at least 10 years. Even though I found it an an antique store for really cheap, I can't bring myself to make anything from it because it's so fragile!

4. What is your favorite modern magazine?

I don't read many magazine at all, actually. I think the last one I bought was an issue of Bust, though.

5. What do you do to pick yourself up on a crummy day?

Sew, Baby, Sew!!!!

6. You get to be an extra in a period film. Which one?

Do films from the 1960s count? If so, I would choose Blow Up. I had a big crush on David Hemmings when I first saw it 20 years ago and I always wished I could be a fashion model in swinging London! If not, then I would choose to be an extra in the Merchant-Ivory adaptation of A Room With A View.

7. What are your thoughts on Steampunk? Does it pique your vintage taste?

I like the dark Victorian-era romanticism of the Steampunk look, but don't have the slightest interest in trying the look myself.

8. What is your go-to neutral?

Denim, for me, has become the modern neutral. You can wear it with anything. So a pair of denim jeans is my go-to neutral.

Completed Project: Vintage 1970s Halter Apron Dress

2010-06-14T19:44:00.006-05:00

Remember the pattern that I wrote about in this post? I finished the dress last night and wore it today! It only took about 5 hours from start to finish (although not in one sitting, which is impossible to do when you're the mother of an 8 month old boy!).

The fabric that I used is a vintage cotton calico printed with teeny-tiny cherries and daisies. And - get this - I've had it for 10 YEARS!!! So sad. I've been sewing for a little longer than that. This is why I am busy stash busting! The trim/straps and over sized pockets are made from an organic white cotton that I got on clearance from a big-box sewing store a while ago.

I usually don't put patch pockets on anything that I make, but I decided to this time, and I'm glad that I did! I trimmed each pocket with a 1" fabric covered button. Also, I think I have officially found the perfect photo-taking spot, which is outdoors in our backyard against the house. Usually I take photos inside against a gray wall, but the results have been hit-or-miss lately.

The back of the dress is gathered with elastic. I had to shorten the elastic so it would take in the dress more; it was a size 16, which is the perfect pants/skirt pattern size for me, but always ends up being way too big in dress patterns.

I think this dress will make a smooth transition from summer to fall as a layering piece to wear over long sleeve tops and tights. Self-Stitched-September, here I come!

Patterns of the Week (Returns!)

2010-06-13T18:03:00.006-05:00

Here is the re-launch of my annual "patterns of the week" post! All of these patterns are from my Etsy favorites list and they are all pretty much too cool for school!

I'm going to let you in on a little secret - I don't really like to wear dresses very often. I think it's the perpetual tomboy in me who yearns to constantly wear denim trousers and t-shirts. I do love skirts, though, so this pattern offers the perfect compromise. $10.00 from bluettecourt.

Super-cool mid 1960s pattern inspired by Mondrian color blocking that was popularized in clothing by Yves St. Laurent. $14.99 from Mysweetiepiepie.

The dress is kind of plain, but that trapeze jacket with the Peter Pan collar and bow tie closure is cute-as-can-be!!! Only $6.00 from C8H10N4O2.

I'm a huge fan of blouses/tops with yokes. Plus, this is a 1970s pattern, so it's been hard to resist buying this one! $4.95 from BlueCatVintage.

Sigh...how I LOVE 1970s Betsey Johnson sewing patterns! $15.00 from SophieBeatrice.

I couldn't resist spreading the word about this discontinued Alexander Henry fabric with a 1970s models theme. I have no idea what you would make from it since the print is kind of busy (maybe a purse or a throw pillow), but I still love it because it's truly bizarre! $10.50 per yard from enzedr.

Completed Project: "Nerds Rock!" Dress

2010-06-12T16:22:00.007-05:00

Here's my latest finished project that I made from that crazy "Nerds Rock!" fabric that I wrote about in a previous post:

I used Simplicity 7304 (copyright 1985). It's a simple sleeveless blouson dress with an elastic waistline, full gathered skirt, side-seam pockets and an asymmetric collar with an attached bow at the left shoulder. The collar and bow are made from contrasting turquoise rayon and I think the drape makes it look more like an attached scarf than a collar.

I'm not quite sure how I feel about the finished dress. I wouldn't have made it sleeveless if I'd had enough fabric left to make sleeves. I like how the color of the rayon fabric matches the turquoise in the cotton fabric. I don't, however, think a blouson bodice dress with a full gathered skirt suits my particular body type. Still, it was a fun project and any time spent sewing is never a waste! I also uploaded this to my studio at BurdaStyle.

The Schwinn Romper Grosgrain Giveaway

2010-06-11T17:44:00.003-05:00

Kathleen, the amazing seamstress and creator of Grosgrain blog, is currently having a giveaway for the cute-cute-cute retro nautical-style summer romper above! Read more by clicking through the link below!

The Schwinn Romper Grosgrain Giveaway

Vintage Sewing Ephemera on Etsy!

2010-06-07T21:04:00.004-05:00

Here are a few pieces of vintage sewing ephemera that I found on Etsy tonight! If I could, I would buy them all but, since I can't, I want to share them with the world!

At one time, home sewing was so prevalent that Simplicity published a magazine for "domestic science" students. I imagine this was given away free of charge to a ton of home ec students in 1961! Found at GlassOfFashion.

Eeeee - a plaid jacket with contrasting yokes, hood and cuffs! I can barely contain my excitement about this!!! I'm completely serious. For a mere $15.00, this 1974 issue of Burda magazine will supply you with 64 patterns! Found at PatternPyg.

A neat-o collection of McCall's and Simplicity fashion news magazines (another freebie given away at fabric stores). Found at GoodAndOld.

"Leisure, Fashion and Sewing." That is just so perfect! This particular issue of Swedish sewing magazine Elna has full-size patterns for a pinafore dress and wide-leg trousers among several others! Found at VintageVice.

Saving the best for last. Yes, I am in awe of the strawberry border print fabric that was used to make this smock top/dress. And the good news is that, if you buy this issue of Golden Hands Monthly, you will be able to make your own version of this smock top/dress since a multi-size pattern is included! Found at LuckyGirlTrading.

"New" Vintage Pattern Arrival + New Project In The Works!

2010-06-03T17:10:00.003-05:00

This pattern arrived in the mail today - YAY!

You know how you tend to see the same patterns over and over again on different pattern sites (especially patterns from the 1960s and 1970s)?Well, I'd never seen this one before, so I had to grab it right away! I found it at Vintage Core Patterns on Etsy. I can't wait to make it - I'll probably start with the dress after I finish my current project, which involves this hilarious fabric:

I'm actually using a 1980s sewing pattern for this one. I don't usually work with 1980s patterns, but something about this fabric was just begging to be made into a 1980s dress! I'll probably finish the dress tonight, but will be away from my computer during the weekend so I'll post photos early next week. By the way, I love how the "nerds" on this fabric are wearing the "obvious" nerd accessory - eyeglasses! I've had this fabric in my stash for 3 years. I am really and truly trying not to buy any more fabric unless I find some at an estate auction or thrift store for so cheap that I just can't pass it up!

Simplicity 6471: 1974 Puff Sleeve Tent Dress

2010-06-01T18:10:00.003-05:00

While I'm working on some new projects, here's an older one that I made three years ago from this amazing 1974 pattern - Simplicity 6471! It's a maternity pattern and I actually made the dress way before I was pregnant. At the time, I was attracted to the flared/tent silhouette and the puff sleeves, and the finished dress actually doesn't look much like a maternity dress, in my opinion.

The fabric that I used was a very strange vintage 1970s primary colored animal print bed sheet. Dig those creepy eyes! In fact, I was so fascinated by those eyes, that I used them to make the fabric covered buttons for the front. I was really happy with the outcome, but the neck band and front button closure proved quite a challenge at the time!

This pattern, by the way, is now available for purchase in my Etsy vintage sewing pattern shop! I know there are a bazillon different patterns shops out there right now, but I think my shop has a really great (and growing) selection of patterns for extremely reasonable prices (most are around $4.00-$5.00 each).