3 Ways with a Plastron

"Plastrons are vest-like yokes worn on the outside of the garment and tied around the waist with a sash, tie, or belt.  Fabrics range from lace and sheer metallics to fur."  Source:  The Complete Book of Sewing by Constance Talbot, 1943.

This versatile accessory piece was a great way to spice up a basic dress, coat, or separates.  Plastrons were particularly popular during the make do and mend era of the early 1940's as they were easy to make and could completely change the look of a costume.

Violet Waters wears a silk tweed plastron over the royal blue skirt from Ashton Drake's Star Wardrobe Collection and the white blouse from "Doing Her Part".  A matching off-the-face brimmed hat and suede gauntlet gloves complete the stylish 40's ensemble.  Plastron with matching belt, hat, gloves, earrings, and corsage are from The Couture Touch.  Cigarette holder from Mystyna.  Fascination Violet Waters is from Ashton Drake.

Violet's plastron was inspired by this 1939 Hollywood sewing pattern featuring Universal star Danielle Darrieux.  A Persian lamb plastron is shown layered over the coat.

Gene Marshall layers the leopard plastron from D.A.E. Originals' "Charmed Traveler" costume set over the "Cashmere Noir" coat from Robert Tonner's Tyler Wentworth Collection.  The matching leopard oversized beret has been dressed with feathers and beaded trim. Embroidered gloves are from Ashton Drake's Star Wardrobe Collection, brooch from Mattel, shoes from Jennifer Sue.  Train case from D.A.E. Originals.  Marceline Gene Marshall is from Integrity.

An updated version of D.A.E. Originals' plastron in a luscious nubby wool tweed is worn over Miss Marshall's favorite black dress.  Plastron, color-blocked suede gauntlet gloves, felt hat, leather belt, and brooch are from The Couture Touch.  Purse from Madame Alexander, eyeglasses from Horsman. Black crepe dress is from the Madra Lord costume "Dark Desire".  A black suede tie was added to the neckline.  Dress, shoes, and Fashion Plot Gene Marshall are from Ashton Drake.