I’ve intended to make a 1950s dress with this blue leaf print for over a year, and it finally happened! This was the 2nd of the 2 fall dresses I sewed in November, and was the one I wore for our family’s Thanksgiving Day celebration this year.

Since the print is large and busy, I went for a pretty simple 1950s pattern. I don’t know how many years I’ve had this pattern in my collection and just never got around to making it, but I don’t know why because I really like it!

It has a crossed front bodice and no buttons, so instead of interfacing it I decided to add self piping along the neckline in hopes that it would help add some structure without making it too stiff. It worked like a charm!

I also added the same self piping to the sleeves as just a bit of understated trim, but that was my only change to the pattern.

The fun detail is the neckline, which has several dart tucks on the shoulders, and an extended collar piece that goes around back.

I had to study the pattern and go slowly for that part, but it all came together beautifully and I really love how it gathers and releases the fabric. I’m definitely going to make this one again!

Since this is a late 1950s pattern I tried to do a bit more of a 1960s bouffant updo for my hair. Didn’t work too well, but it’s still pretty.

It turned out to be a very comfortable and not too dressy dress to wear for a busy Thanksgiving Day with lots of cooking and cleanup. I’d like to make it again in a more solid fabric so you can really see the neckline detail.

It seems that both my fall dresses were blue – but I have something in a totally different color scheme coming next, so stay tuned!