This listing is for Simplicity #1273 a restored* sewing pattern of a 1940s utility dress. This workwear dress belongs to the iconic end-of-war style of functional, simplistic dressing.
This design features buttons down the front and a notched collar. Tucks hold in fullness at the lower front edge. Gathers do the job at the lower back edge of the bodice. Princess seams run at either side of the center front and back of the skirt for a lean effect. The shoulder seams have interesting inset pocket-like details that button down. Style I features integrated belt flaps, while using topstitching as an accent. Style II has long sleeves finished with wrist bands.
Condition: *Restored for Use. The pattern pieces have been carefully inspected by the seller & repaired/redrawn where needed to guarantee all components and instructions are present to recreate this pattern. The following pieces/items have been repaired/redrawn.
- the original long sleeve piece was damaged, new pieces were drawn. The new long sleeve pattern piece has been redesigned and tested in muslin for fit.
- the collar (D) has been redrawn in tissue paper, as the old plastic tape had put it in poor condition.
Simplicity #1273; ©1944; miss 14; Bust 32; 1940s Utility Dress Pattern
DETAILS
This 1940s utillity dress pattern contains 11 original perforated tissue paper pattern pieces and 2 restored tissue paper pieces (1) a newly drawn collar (D) piece included, (2) restored long sleeve piece – redrawn from similar pattern, one instruction sheet on unbleached paper in english with some small pinholes and the original damaged/repaired envelope which has split, there is discoloring from old tape, a stamp and is in rough shape but useable.
Pls see photos for quality. This pattern comes with a protective storage sleeve or bag.
- Materials: No materials are specified; however, a utility dress is, by all means, most suitable for lightweight denims, chambray, cotton gabardine, poplin and similar fabrics.
- Notions: thread, buttonhole twist, seam binding, hook+eyes, 14 buttons, triangular shoulder pads, buckle or purchased belt.
- Yardage: (2) 39″x3-1/8yds or 100cmx2.8M
FIT
This makes a slim-fit 1940s utility dress with a little volume in the bodice. Shoulders are made with shoulder pads, check out my tutorial.
- Measurements: Bust 32″…..81cm, Waist 26.5″…67cm, Hip 35″……89cm
USE
This is a tissue paper pattern for recreating the styles shown on the envelope front. The original pieces are printed tissue paper, the restored pieces are drawn-out on tissue paper, both should be handled with care. The instruction sheet has a cutting chart and the sewing instructions. The envelope back has back view of styles, a text description of styles, a guide to pattern pieces, a measurement chart, material requirements and sewing notions.
In order to recreate this 1940s utility dress you will need to purchase your material, notions and anything you might need for embellishing. To test the fit before using expensive fabric, purchase muslin & recreate the style in a basic version. It is advisable to make a paper copy when resizing or altering the design.
CARE
- For small tears, use archival tape or a glue stick & tissue paper.
- Store the pattern in its protective sleeve or bag to reduce breakage and further discoloring.
For more information, please view Pattern Care.
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SHIPPING
I aim to dispatch parcels within 1-2 days. You will be notified of any delays within this time. Shipping is tracked delivery with DHL, unless requested otherwise. 4-5 patterns can be shipped together in a large envelope. For customers shipping within the eu, prices include all relevant import duties and taxes.
For international orders, DHL or UPS are generally used. Please note that duties, taxes, customs, and brokerage fees (if any) are the recipient’s responsibility. Delivery times for international shipping may vary depending on your location. Please check the article page for the actual shipping cost of the item.
RETURNS
Unfortunately, I cannot accept returns for vintage patterns/magazines or custom made items.
















