Ten items that inspire your vintage journey - Part One

I can say without a doubt in my mind that vintage sewing patterns have become the most important inspiration for me in my journey to a vintage wardrobe. Not only does it help tremendously to put together a vintage wardrobe in an affordable manner, the pattern art is usually amazing and very inspiring. It tells you quite a bit about the trends from that specific year (or season even) and also helps me a lot with dating actual vintage garments. Learning how to sew has been the best decision I've made in my life so far (that sounds extreme, but yes, seriously!). I mean, the idea alone that I am actually able to create the two garments from the pattern below gets me all exited and happy. Aren't they pretty?! (Now I just have to wish for some money to magically appear so I can buy the pattern..)

2. 1930s & 1940s Color Movies

I love movies in general, but my favorite type of movie is without a doubt the early technicolor film from the 1930s and 1940s. Don't get me wrong, I love black and white movies as well. But there is just something magical about the use of color in those early days. (Which has technical reasons but I won't bore you with that information). Obviously fashion plays an important part in why I like those movies so much. What can be more inspiring than to watch beautiful actresses in beautiful garments, in color? Case in point, this fantastic outfit Betty Grable wears in Moon Over Miami (1941) (And there's more where that came from, I'd definitely advice anyone with a love for either early 40's fashion or movies to watch it sometime. I mean, Betty Grable, Carole Landis and Don Ameche, need I say more?)

3.  Robes (Or: Housecoats, Dressing gowns, Hostess gown, etc.)

I have already expressed my love for vintage dressing gowns before, so I won't bother you with it too much because I'll just repeat myself. But when it comes to building a vintage wardrobe, my personal opinion is that a vintage robe is essential. I can't begin to express how much of a difference it makes in how you feel when you have breakfast or lounge around in your beautiful vintage robe, compared to the modern terrycloth bathrobe or a pair of sweatpants and a hoody. It doesn't have to be a luxurious shiny, satiny one, it can be made of plain cotton; it will still make you feel like a million bucks.

The most gorgeous robe, 1939, Source: myvintagevogue

4. Tap pants / French Knickers

What is there to say, who doesn't love this beautiful piece of lingerie? I currently only own one pair from What Katie Did that I purchased before I started sewing. But as soon as I am comfortable to sew with slippery fabrics and lace, I will definitely make dozens of pairs for myself. They are so very comfortable!

A GORGEOUS sewing pattern for sale at So Vintage Patterns - $125

5. Swimwear

Another thing that inspires me greatly is the swimwear fashions from the 1930s - 1950s, and even a lot of the 1920s ones. Although, thank goodness, there are more and more modern retro options available, the general modern swimwear trend just feels completely uninspired to me. In my opinion their vintage predecessors are just so much prettier! I know I will be sewing many of them in the future. Rather than posting a pretty picture, I thought I'd treat you to some lovely footage of a 1930s swimwear fashion film, in color!





I will reveal the rest of my list on Monday. Have a great weekend!

(ps. the giveaway will end on December 4th, which is actually my birthday! Fingers crossed!)