Vintage Pattern - Vogue 4751 - 1957

As promised today we will take a sneak peak into my latest vintage gown pattern.

The first thing I noticed about the pattern when I pulled it out of the bag was the previous owner's extensions to the bodice pieces. It looks like someone wanted a longer waisted bodice - a long line fitted bodice with a dropped waist seam was popular around the same time. It looks like it was drafted to be attached not with a straight even waist seam, but one that zig-zags to form points at each gore. It is interesting to speculate on this pattern morph, isn't it?

In the photo above are the bodice pieces, from left to right in the order they'd be sewn together. Of course there are quite a few gathered edges, but I find the pieces themselves interesting. The one on the far right is the back.

The lining, or inner bodice, is different in construction that the outer bodice. It is almost the same as the inner bodice on the Diamonds gown, made from a vintage pattern as well. You can see the front piece with it's center horizontal bust dart and some of the instructions in the photo below.


Due to the straps and front construction, this gown has a back zipper. The zipper might be able to be moved to the side. That would depends on the straps and the support they'd need.

The straps themselves are attached via felled seam over the gathered edges of the bodice. The strap facings are then stitched in place.

The gown also features an inner belt at the waist to take the stress of the heavy skirt off of the straps and top edge of the dress. The skirt is also underlined in netting or crinoline to give it that perfect shape, which I'm sure was also helped by wearing the proper petticoats with it.

Beyond the construction details, I noticed a few things about the deltor (instruction sheet) and pattern printings.

The first thing you see when looking at the deltor is this:

My pattern didn't include sheet 2, but from reading the rest of the pattern, sheet 2 gives information on fitting, fabrics, and general sewing techniques.

I also noticed this at the top of the sheet with the actual instructions. Interesting reminder of what we're supposed to be doing!

Another thing about this pattern that I find odd is that it is only printed in English. I have other patterns that are older or from the same era and the pattern pieces themselves have all the words printed in English, French and Spanish. This one doesn't - take a look at the piece #5, the back, below. Elsewhere, in the instructions, the word "center" is spelled "centre", which is the alternate spelling, not generally used in American publications.

Q/A: Sigrid wanted to know I'd ever make this one or if it was just part of my collection. I buy vintage patterns with the intent of actually making them, not just collection. The bodice is just too interesting not to at least consider it or a version of it to be made. If I were to make it, it might be part of an art garment ensemble.

Parting Shot: Kiwi is just outside the photo shoot. She's out and about the house more, but still very skittish and scampers away if we try to pet her. She does try to play with the other cats, but they view her as more of nuisance than as a playmate.