The “May I Show You to Your Room?” Skirt and Top
The Facts
Fabric: Hawaiian Print Cotton from Alameda Antique Fair – 3 yards for ~$1
Pattern: Advance 3909 from Vintage Fashion Expo - $8
Year: c. 1945
Notions: 4 buttons – $.005
Time to complete: ~5 hours
First worn: October 2010
Wear again? Yes. But only on an island.
Total Cost: ~$9
Attending a conference, I spent three days in Hawaii last week. Of course, for three days I made five dresses. To be fair to my obsessiveness, there were day *and* night events, so I found time to wear everything. I also, without embarrassment, made sure to utilize big Hawaiian prints and patterns.
My most shamelessly Hawaiian outfit is this skirt and top combo from an Advance pattern from the mid 1940s. While it isn't completely obvious in the photo, it has a nice little peplum that saved it from looking completely boxy. The print was pure Hawaii and, I feared, that I would be confused for a hotel employee. Thankfully, no one asked me where the buffet was or if I could book them a helicopter trip.
Construction of this outfit was completely straightforward. The only issue is that a 34" bust usually means a very Mena-unfriendly tiny tiny waist. Thankfully, this was my morning outfit and by the time I ate lunch it was time for a costume change.
Unfortunately, I didn't take any good photos on the trip so here's just a quick shot taken with my phone.
This is super super cute! It looks better on you than on the dress form.
I love this one! Agreed, much better on you than the form.
Gorgeous! I have a soft spot for those tropical prints!!! :)
♥ Casey | blog
Beautiful and perfect fit! I love it!!!
I have to tell you I didn’t like the fabric on the dressform, but it really looks great on! Love the pattern. Please contact me if you want to sell or swap.
I love the flowers on the material and the style of the dress. It really looks cute on you.
You look great in that dress and a great job in the fitting! Well done.
I love the fabric! I have been looking for fabric like that and have not been successful.
The dress is fabulous!
Very cute – looks great on you (I agree with Gail – it looks so much better on you than on the dress form. – and I love the neckline!
Wow! This is a great outfit…usually I can’t stand Hawaiian prints but I would totally wear this!