There is nothing more exciting than finding an old garment and studying the
detail to create something new. The original was found dirty, wrinkled and
in need of repair at a flea market in Illinois. Clearly homemade with cheap
fabric, seams that did not hang straight, a yoke that did not sit correctly
around the neckline, but it had a charm which reminds us of an era when mothers
sewed for their children not only to save money, but for the love of creating
something to be admired and passed on to the next generation.
The pattern for reproducing this garment incorporates an inverted underarm
pleat that adds fullness to the garment and a long sleeve, the style of which
dates back to the nineteenth century. During this time period the underarm
seam was positioned towards the front of the sleeve.