1950s Dresses Patterns Make A Nice Sewing Project

By Frances Miller


Retro fashions normally have their own place in history. Bell bottoms, neon colored clothing, and suits with large shoulder pads are some of the more popular trends throughout the years. However, the era that brought us black and white family sitcoms, rockabilly style music, and the original drive in burger joint take some people on a time travel. The fashions from this period are memorable as well. Instead of going to a thrift or specialty retailer to find apparel from this period, anyone that can use a sewing machine may like 1950s dresses patterns.

While some of the skirts and dresses got their extreme effect from petticoats that were either sewn in or worn separately, these are not necessary today. Most women will appreciate the fullness of these patterns. As some items can be made using wash and wear fabric, making more than one bottom is ideal for individuals who travel a lot or hate to do laundry.

Although many who were around during the period also appreciated the simple use of color, using a pattern would allow any sewer to add their own personal touch. One idea would be to create a full skirt using denim fabric but add a rainbow or shimmer petticoat underneath. Leftover fabric may be used to make a wide waist knicker belt, which is good for creating an illusion of a smaller waistline.

As some styles never leave completely, one thing worth considering is working with someone that has sewing skills. Hiring an independent tailor or dressmaker is not as expensive as some people may think. These people know how to fit clothing for various types of bodies and can buy fabric for less than most consumers.

For those with a fun side, making a poodle skirt to be worn with a cashmere sweater or short denim jacket is great for hanging out with friends. If finding a pattern is impossible, then make a full skirt as directed but using a clip art image can offer many possibilities. Either doing a direct transfer or creating an applique using fabric or rocaille beads is sure to catch the eye of others.

Although some women enjoyed their flared skirts and dresses, those who wanted a little variety would go for a mermaid style cocktail dress. Similar to the recent bandage dress craze of the millennium, the average woman found themselves making a few adjustments to emphasize their best physical features. Before the waist trainer, waist knickers were undergarments that helped to create a natural hourglass figure.

Most women who wore a scarf outdoors tied it to the front with a bang underneath. Although this style is actually from the previous decade, some who are into retro styles may include this in their vintage wardrobe. Singer Andra O Day is known for wearing a scarf or headwrap in this style.

Any woman that wanted to up their fashion game wore seamed silk stockings before leaving home. Although most dresses were fairly long, pencil skirts and mermaid style dresses usually had a slit or opening that allowed a woman to show off her shapely calves. While some women may have worn ballerina style flats in casual situations, this type of hosiery looked best with stiletto heels.




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