The Marlene Waistcoat

So delighted to add another piece to my Marlene suit--this awesome waistcoat made from a 1941 McCall pattern.

I just adore this pattern--McCall 4091 from 1941.  It features a very neat waistcoat design that has a split at the waist in the bodice front--which actually works great with high-waisted trousers.

I made view B but without the faux pockets. I like the streamlined front better and maybe I was also being lazy and just wanted to fit the waistcoat! haha.

The back is straight with a little belt and buckle. I probably should have taken some of the length out of the back but overall, I love the fit. Though waistcoats don't leave much room for holiday eating! hahaha.



The idea to make this waistcoat came from finding more of this fabric in my fabric stash.  I still have more too--so maybe I should also make a matching skirt!!

I made the jacket from a 1939 McCall pattern and the trousers from a reproduction 1941 pattern (both are blogged here and here) about seven years ago, so this entire outfit is from my favourite years of 1939-1941.

The fabric is an amazing lightweight wool with a great design. I ended up picking up maybe 6-7 metres of this on a half off sale and then decided it would turn into the perfect suit!

I just love the menswear 1940s looks--popularised by Katherine Hepburn and actresses like Marlene Dietrich (who I named this suit after!)

I just love the whole look and the waistcoat makes such a great difference! I now want to make waistcoats out of all my fabrics!!

We took these photos at a grand house just on the outskirts of Edinburgh and I love how well all the colours match.

I'm sold on making more 1940s suits and they are so wearable too!

What about you? Vintage suits, yes or no?


MUAH: Vanity thrills Photos: Darja Bilyk