I finally made a start on this book that I bought back at the start of lockdown: Gertie Sews Jiffy Dresses. I don’t know what took me so long; I think I was simultaneously intimidated (I mean, Gertie is the goddess of vintage style) and distracted (as a novice in the sewing world, I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of pattern possibility).
This book is a treasure – even though I have only made one pattern so far – the boatneck dress – I have read this book from front to back.
When we were thrown into lockdown mode at the outset of the pandemic, I had time (and the lack of distractions from life) to sit down and learn basic dressmaking skills. This book is a starter on all the basics; from basic sewing techniques to fitting adjustments. They’re all expertly illustrated, too, which helps those of us who are more visual learners.
Since then, I’ve improved to the level of confident beginner / intermediate so I’ve treated myself to a Patreon membership with Gertie and I’m finally finding my sewing style. Before I learned to sew, I wore mostly reproduction vintage fashion. Few beginner patterns really explore this aesthetic (Sew Over It is the exception and I recommend the Betty Dress to any beginner and you’ll see a few versions of it on my blog and Instagram grid; you get the odd pattern that is reminiscent of vintage styles but Gertie and Charm Patterns really are the epitome of vintage style and I look forward to flaunting this love of 40’s and 50’s inspired fashion now that I am entering a new sewing year. I am starting with the recent Patreon project for December; a swing coat inspired by The Marvellous Mrs Maisel.
For a full review of this pattern and this make, check out my profile on Minerva (this post).