A 1940 Sweetheart Dress

 

This was one of my winter makes that I am more than happy about. The pattern was a 1940 Eva Dress pattern that features a sweetheart style neckline, a skirt back gathered into a lower bodice back yoke, and cute little puffed sleeves. Being an early 40s dress, there are not shoulder pads required but can be added if desired. The neckline is finished with a bias facing. Another charming feature of this dress is that the bodice upper back does wrap over to the front to help create the shape of the neckline.  Overall, I would consider this one an intermediate pattern as it is not quite beginner friendly but not totally advanced either. The fabric I used was a soft and drapey rayon from Telalinda fabrics that I found in the remnant section. What a find!

This one is one of my true favorites thus far and I have already made it up twice, once in this print you are now seeing here and also in a green solid rayon which will be photographed . . . .Eventually. I will get to it some day! Promise! For me, this one is turning into a favorite because I like how it went together, I like the silhouette, and I like the little gathers on the bodice and skirt back. The neckline is also the ideal platform for clips! Either single worn at the center of the neckline or in pairs on each side. I already cannot wait to style this dress for the evening. Until then, a day look with an original 1940s tilt hat with lush purple velvet ribbon and a perky purple foundation.