My favorite vintage dress is beyond repair! The previous owner had made several attempts to fix rips and holes and so have I but the fabric is so delicate that it rips and shreds too easily and must be retired. Instead of throwing it away, I've decided to re-make it! It's rare to find that perfect dress with all of the right details. This one had it for me. Flowing skirt, pleats in the right spot, scoop neck, cute collar, 3/4 sleeves, even pockets!

1950s plus size vintage day dress
my favorite dress, worn to my first blogging conference

I disassembled the dress with a seam ripper, leaving some of the pleats and darts intact as a reference and traced the pieces out on a big roll of paper. Just as I had finished taking it apart, the mail lady delivered 4 beautiful yards of rayon challis fabric in reproduction 1940s Melody print from Wearing History!  I wasn't sure if I'd have enough fabric but I laid it all out and I do!!



1940s reproduction rayon novelty print music note melody fabric from Wearing History

I am so in love with this print! The drape is beautiful and you can't find novelty prints like this in apparel fabrics so easily or affordably. I have a tiny bit left over so I'm hoping to make a little skirt or hat for Olivia to match.


1940s reproduction rayon novelty print music note melody fabric from Wearing History

1940s reproduction rayon novelty print music note melody fabric from Wearing History

The fabric is designed and printed in the US and is available exclusively through Wearing History. If you're not a sewing girl, they have several pieces in their ready-to-wear line in the same print on sale including the Maisie dress, Norma Jean blouse and melody turban/scarf! (The Maisie dress is 50% off right now!)



I'm hoping to get this dress finished soon so I can show it off....and so I can get the dress form out of my living room because it has been terrifying my poor husband all week!


*fabric provided for review c/o Wearing History*