Inspiration Board: Vintage Cocktail Bodice

Here's a rather OTT inspiration board thanks mostly to the Dolce & Gabbana crystal  bustier. The basis for the inspiration is this lovely versatile fitted (and boned) top pattern for cocktail or evening wear. The fabulous thing about this pattern is:

• it has a number of variations to it ie. strapless, shoestring straps, train (unusual), gathered bust and a shoulder drape
• it can be used to fit with any skirt options eg, full, pencil or feathered as in the board

Vintage Cocktail Bodice by sewindigo featuring bustier corset tops

Do you think this pattern is too over the top to be practical? Do you like the variations? Have you seen this kind of train on a bodice before?

PS Don't you love these shoes?

Vintage patterns: Survey results

Sometime ago you may remember I asked for some feedback from you on buying vintage patterns.

Firstly, I would like to say a big "thank you" those of you who kindly took the time to respond. As a vintage pattern collector and seller, it's really useful to understand what sewers look for when buying a vintage pattern.

I would like to share some of the survey results you may find interesting.

1. 80% of respondents use vintage patterns. Those who don't use them tend to be concerned about the fit of vintage sizes (they can run small).

2. The most important criteria (in percent) for respondents when selecting vintage patterns are....

Overall design and style is the most important criteria however other criteria that features is larger sizing, looking for design aspects that not available on modern patterns and a complete pattern set.

Once again, thanks for your help. It's great to get the feedback. I've left the survey open until the end of April in case anyone else would like to participate.

I hope you've found this interesting. I know I did.

Inspiration Board: Jacques Griffe cocktail dress

I'm mad about the vintage patterns of the French designer Jacques Griffe of the 50s. He designs such beautifully elegant clothes and his evening and cocktail dresses are superb and a favourite of mine.

Here's one of his cocktail dresses with a wonderfully full skirt and deep V neckline. It was wonderful to find a photo showing the pattern made up as a wedding dress.

Jacques Griffe cocktail dress by sewindigo featuring vintage jewelry

Do you have a favourite pattern designer? Or pattern brand? Do you collect any particular patterns?

Anyone making an Easter Bonnet?

To celebrate the holidays (if you're feeling crafty) here's a vintage pattern for making Easter hats from the Tacoma News Tribune -Society in 1963. There's a wide brimmed version and a pillbox version. Maybe you'll feel inspired...

Happy Easter everyone. I hope you have a safe and happy holiday.