So, this image caught my eye one day recently when scrolling through images on Pinterest. I loved view 2's use of contrast, and instantly realized its similarity to a 1930s pattern already in my stash.

My pattern:

Of course I had to make my own version, to add to the growing 1930s section of my wardrobe!

I do like the color choices of the pattern illustration better, but I didn't have the right combo, so I used fabric on hand (always a good thing, right?) 

The main fabric for the dress I thought could look Art Deco with its diamond print. It's actually a reproduction cotton print from the 1800s. What do you think? Does it work?

For the contrasting panel I used up the leftovers from this project. (Also the belt buckle.) Everything from the stash, including finding a use for some scraps – that's what I call a successful project. As long as it fits. 🙂

The dress is a simple one, with a huge wing collar and a fitted A-line skirt that isn't too snug. I skipped the bother of making the neck piece open at the top, so it's tight to get over my head. Next time I won't cut corners.

The skirt panel shapes the front of the skirt, and the front and back bodice are pleated, so the 2 back skirt darts were the only darts in the whole dress.

Like the pattern illustration I decided to put a bow at the top. I hunted through my patterns to find a good bow pattern (I was too lazy to draft one myself) and found this one, which turned out huge but that works for a 1930s dress. I pin it on, so it can be removed if I want to wear a brooch or long necklace instead.

I was unsure how to style the dress since the print makes me feel like it should be a house dress, but it also feels a little more formal to wear, so I decided to dress it up a bit with a 1930s straw hat that has seen better days, and some gigantic straw-colored gauntlets. The navy in the contrast I picked up with vintage 1930s or '40s navy sandals, and a dark blue thrifted clutch (both of which are staples in my accessory collection).

It is quite comfortable to wear, and I like the length and the amount of style yet simplicity of this pattern. I would like to make it again in a more formal version with solid color and contrast like the pattern illustration, but meanwhile I am satisfied with this one for a trial.