Making the 1933 Frock

I made a modified version of view B of the 1933 morning frock and am happy with how it came out. It’s a comfortable summer dress, though I don’t think I’ll be wearing while cleaning house as suggested by the envelope. I made the version with the collar but opted for a beaded lace trim rather than the ruffles. I had a bolt of the perfect satin ribbon for an accent. I used my dandelions print fabric in a cotton sateen.

As with many 1930’s patterns, the bust point was laughably high so I lowered it 2”. That resulted in an extra 4” in the sleeve which I thought I would need to take out but wound up needing. I also drafted facings as I prefer them to using a bias finish for the neckline. The pattern has more of a flare in the skirt than is shown on the original pattern envelope. The envelope also calls this one a “beginner’s pattern”. I’m not sure I agree but assume it is because of the loose shape and lack of closures.

The original pattern uses french seams everywhere and due to the narrow width of fabric available at the time, includes instructions for piecing the dress pieces and the ties. I opted not to use french seams and a wider fabric width that would accommodate the pieces.

I made the dress from a cotton sateen and think that it would work better with a lighter weight cotton. I do love the 30’s feel and think it’s pretty cute.