These patterns were advertised in Needlecraft magazine, December 1916. From right to left, you have a dressing gown and rather natty nightgown, housedress, apron, and an afternoon dress for church, club meetings, informal social events such as teas, and making or receiving calls. Note the short, wide "war crinoline" silhouette, which appeared suddenly in the spring of 1915 as a radical departure from straight, floor-length Edwardian styles. It was denounced in press and pulpit as wasteful and shocking. Although hemlines briefly dropped again in the early 20's, this was the beginning of the end so far as wardrobe moralists were concerned.
I just love how the press and pulpit railed against these fashions. Wasteful and Shocking!
ReplyDeleteI find the outfits charming and comfortable looking. Corseting on the way out.
These never really went out of style, just difference in fits really.
ReplyDeleteSuch a great history lesson, I think the apron and day dress are so gorgeous. ♥
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't want to do my housework in that but I think the housedress is as Ducky said, a very classic, wearable style.
ReplyDeleteBut of all these I like the nightie; I think that would make a very dapper pajama top, with the frogs and the binding.
Those look so good. "The press and the pulpit" should have taken a look at the tube tops, can you imagine?
ReplyDeleteI would love that apron. Or maybe several of them. Good classic styles.
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