Happy Holidays

1940's Decorative Details: Applique Trim

Applique is formed by applying one layer of fabric, the applique, to the surface of another which is usually the garment section. An applique can be made of a variety of fabrics and designs or motifs. They can be bold and decorative or appear more subtle.

Miss Madra Lord

The clean lines of a classic, collar-less jacket is the perfect backdrop to showcase a pair of marvelous vintage appliques found at an antique clothing show and sale. A green suede and brown leather tilt topper, green suede gauntlet gloves, and a silk paisley shell complete the one-of-a-kind ensemble. In addition to using vintage appliques as trim for the jacket, a man's silk tie was used for the shell and trim on the hat. A woman's brown leather glove was used for the hat crown. The jacket "button" was originally part of some vintage trim.
  
Tip: Antique shops, thrift stores, and flea markets are excellent sources for doll fabrics and trims. Vintage scarves, handkerchiefs, silk ties, leather gloves, as well as clothing make great fabric choices. Buttons, beads, fur, lace, appliques, and embroidered trim can often be salvaged from damaged clothing.

Miss Madra Lord

Ashton Drake's "Dark Desire" Madra Lord has been enhanced with an Integrity articulated body. Miss Lord's circa 1941 suit ensemble is from The Couture Touch. Cigarette holder is from Ashton Drake.

Vogue 7485

Miss Lord's jacket was made from Vogue pattern #7485. The jacket was lengthened and the front waistline dart eliminated. A street-length, slightly a-line skirt was added for a smart, daytime look.

Vogue 355, photo courtesy Genie Hillen

Vogue 7485 was based on this original Vogue Couturier Design sewing pattern from 1940/41.

Versatility by Design

How do you take a chic and sophisticated sheath to over-the-top drama suitable for a Hollywood diva?

 

Miss Madra Lord poses in a smart, slim-fitting, pink dress featuring contrast collar and cuffs. The dress was made from Vogue pattern #7382 by Diane on Whidbey Island. OOAK hat and ascot are from The Couture Touch. Fur muff and gloves are from Ashton Drake, shoes from Integrity.

Miss Gene Marshall makes a dramatic entrance wearing the same dress accented with flamboyant, detachable bows. OOAK hat and bow detailing are from The Couture Touch. Gloves and jewelry are from Ashton Drake.

Vogue 7382

The pattern for this circa 1950 dress includes 3 variations. Using the original pattern, the bows were drafted as a separate piece that could be tacked or pinned in place yet easily removable for added versatility. 

Pool Pose Madra Lord and Star Entrance Gene Marshall are from Integrity Toys.