This review was originally featured in Threads #177 (February/March 2015).

Decades of Style: 1940s Belle Curve Dress 4014

This elegant, vintage-style dress can be made floor-length or knee-length. It has a V-neckline, center-front and center-back seams instead of side seams, soft cap sleeves, and a unique seam that sweeps from the underarm to the center back, with a combination of sunburst darting and soft gathers at the back waistline. The back bodice is shaped with shoulder darts and contour waistline darts. The proportions are flattering, and there is a good amount of ease included. Dart templates are provided for each size, which is helpful for sewing the 36 darts. Our tester found the darts time-consuming to sew but worth the effort. The pattern instructions are clear and easy to follow. This pattern is ideal for drapey fabrics, such as silk charmeuse, silk crepe de Chine, rayon blends, and tissue-weight wool.

(Sized A-C for busts 30-46 in. and hips 33-49 in.)

Sewing Tip: Since fitting is difficult after the dress is constructed, make a muslin first, especially if a close fit is desired.

-Tested by Judy Nevins, Manchester, Connecticut

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