Last Wednesday I started off on one of those spur-of-the-moment sewing projects. This one was to make a comfy and cool summer dress - just for wearing around the house!
I'm very pleased with the way it turned out. The fabric is a very lightweight cotton, (almost a lawn) though it's woven to mimic denim, and the dress is unlined, so it's definately much cooler than the usual knit t-shirt for those hot summer days.
The dress bodice was cut from this 1941 pattern.
I've found it's a great 'basic' pattern with which to begin dress variations!
The changes I made were to shorten the bodice a bit and add a waistband, and add my own slightly puffed sleeves, and a fuller 2-panel gathered skirt.
After these pictures were taken I also added two big hidden pockets in each skirt side seam. Very handy.
The 1940s are definately the best era to turn when looking for inspiration for comfortable but modern styled house and day dresses. The basic sillhouette is the same, but the variation in styles seems to be endless...
Jumper dresses, gathered yokes
Sporty with little pockets....
A-line and longer skirts,
Big pockets, and tiered skirts!
Add all the variations of adorable cotton aprons in vintage styles, and I think that cooking and cleaning might never get boring again!....lol. But seriously - don't you feel perkier if you take the time each day to put on something cute and neat? I know I do. Even if it's 'just around the house'. :)
What do you think? Do you like the idea of house-dresses?
Would you wear one 'just' for housework and gardening?
