Since starting to collect and sell vintage dress patterns on Etsy, I have been wanting to make one of them. I choose Simplicity 8381, a 1969 shift dress with princess seams and pockets on the front.
The pattern istself was not in great condition, but still usable. Laura at More Sewing helped me with the fitting. The pattern is a size 16 (38inch bust). Adjustments included taking an inch or so off the bust and adding onto the hips. If you look n the pictures below, I cut the lining where the pins are. Just shows how we have changed shape over the years!
Here’s the invisible zip going in, and a close up of the fabric. It is a crepe like material and has a lovely drape. It was easy to sew with and pressed nicely too. The fabric was in a big bag of scraps given to my friend by Maryamm at Mazelino Designs, a wedding dress designer and sewing school. I lined it with white polyester to give it that 1960s ‘rustle’ as I swish around!
I am really pleased with the fit of the dress! I love the princess seam detail and the groovy pockets! I found some vintage buttons to finish off the pockets. If I made it again I think I would make the neckline a little bigger, it’s just a little high for my taste and comfort.
And a bonus! A photobombing puppy!
