Okay, so it’s confession time again … Another guilty obsession of mine is collecting vintage dress-making patterns, most particularly those of the sixties era. I can hardly begin to describe the joy of unearthing a new ‘Vogue Paris Original’ couturier pattern. I presently have about twenty precious examples of sixties patterns, many with their sewing labels still included and all in their original and very charming packaging. What’s the attraction of these relics from a bygone era? Well might you ask, given that my sewing skills are not up to actually reproducing any of these amazing garments, no matter how many detailed instructions are included. Undoubtedly it’s the promise that I could actually have them made by a skilled seamstress and don some of these amazing outfits.
In fact, I plan very soon to do just that! Of course the outfits won’t actually be vintage themselves, but they’ll be produced from genuine vintage designer patterns, surely the next best thing? And they’ll be tailored to fit perfectly.
Some of my favourite designers of the time included in my current collection are Jean Patou, Sybil Connolly of Dublin, John Cavanagh, Lanvin, James Galanos, Guy Laroche, Belinda Bellville of London and Bill Blass.
It’s not just the designs themselves that I love and long to wear. I also absolutely adore the photos on the packets. Gorgeous models of the sixties, invariably wearing the garment as well as a fetching hat and posing at a jaunty angle, as they did in that era. They had such a wonderful line in angled poses! They also feature beautiful hand-drawn illustrations of the outfits, which really conjure up that period for me.
In the winter months to come I do plan to add considerably to my collection and to gradually learn to sew and gain sufficient ability to make some of these garments myself. I have a friend and colleague who is a fellow vintage-lover and collector who is keen to join me on this venture. No doubt we will gee each other up and encourage each other in our lofty and ambitious goal.
What is it about these patterns that really captures my imagination? I guess it’s the possibility of being able to afford my very own Lanvin gown or a beautifully tailored Patou dress suit and jacket. Such style and understated elegance! Wouldn’t it be marvellous to wake up every working day and be faced with the dilemma: shall I wear Laroche or Lanvin today? It would certainly put a different light on the daily grind and a certain spring in my step.
Do you have similar vintage obsessions and plans for jazzing up your wardrobe?
