07/18/2026
Here are a few more photos of my most recently completed sewing project, made from Simplicity 9464.
This pattern sat in my stash for a number of years before I finally decided to try it for the first time last summer, and make it again this summer. In my opinion, the pattern envelope artwork does not do the design justice!
I made this dress with Independence Day in mind, and so I chose to really accent the red, white and blue theme with handmade trim around the neckline and sleeves. I used strips of white cotton, folded underneath lengthwise to meet in the center, and topped them with double fold bias tape, hand stitched in place. The red on white gives the neckline a hint of vintage "sailor" essence. I love that even with the patriotic color theme of the dress, it's not so holiday oriented that it can't be worn all summer.
One feature that I love is the sleeves, and the vintage method for keeping them looking freshly puffed and perky instead of limp and saggy. The secret is a support made of three layers of muslin, which are bound with bias tape and tacked at each shoulder on the inside.
I must have done something wrong with the sleeves the first time around, because they were definitely snug on the dress I made last summer. So this time, I slashed them vertically and spread them for more room. They were way too roomy, and I wound up tapering the sleeve seam back down to the original pattern width at the cuff. I guess this step increased my mobility a bit, but I'm still confused about the snug fit last year. I must have cut the wrong size by mistake. 😂
Instead of bound buttonholes, I opted for easy machine made holes, and chose some cute vintage buttons to accent the red trim and print.
Aside from lowering the neckline, adding side seam pockets and making my usual fit adjustments, this dress was quite straightforward to make. All of the construction details are shown in my "How To Sew A 1940's Dress" video on YouTube, if there's more you'd like to know.
I love how picnic-y and country-ish this dress is, and I will definitely get a lot of enjoyment out of wearing it!
