This 1929 Frock with Cape from Butterick 2996 is just the thing you'll want to wear to arrive at the picnic in style. Pattern was listed as a 1920’s frock, but was actually advertised in Delineator Magazine, January 1930.
This smart little number has great details such as three different hemline options, geometric seams, two piece optional cape, and a pretty tie, all making this the perfect party frock.
Directions call for hemstitching the seams which would showcase the dainty geometric design, but then wondered how this would have been done in the 1920’s(?) Our modern sewing machines tend to come with every gadget and stitch imaginable, but not so in 1929.
So, after researching my 1921 Butterick ‘The New Dressmaker’, I found they recommended the following:
“Machine hemstitching is used on blouses, dresses, lingerie, etc., to put together seams, finish hems neat, durable and gives a garment a dainty, finished look. It is also used as a trimming either in straight rows or in a fancy design. Prices for the work vary, but it is very expensive. It can not be done at home as the machine required is too costly, but any plaiting establishment or salesroom of a sewing-machine company will do it.”
How charming is that?!
There are darts at the bust, front waistline, and along the back, as well as at the shoulders of the cape, giving this pullover dress it’s subtle shaping. Made up in a crepe-like chiffon - the dress just floats.
This reproduction dress pattern is now available here.
