It’s not the Halloween Extravaganza if I don’t bring my not-so-secret goth side out to play! This hack of the Lorelei Gown came out even better than I expected. But first, some inspiration! Vampira (played by Maila Nurmi) was a character in a tv show, The Vampira Show, that ran for one year (1954-1955) and […]
Dolly Parton is a style icon! I am delighted to share this hack of the Lorelei Gown (paired with the Dolly Bell Bottoms) so you can recreate this iconic look! Let’s start with some inspiration. Dolly wore so many jumpsuits with big bell bottoms back in the 1970s! More images and inspiration can be found here. […]
The Niagara Bodice pattern expansion includes a longer three-quarter sleeve as well as alternate bodice and midriff front pattern pieces for the Niagara Keyhole Bodice, so you can wear this sexy style during the cooler months and in more staid environments. — xoxo, Gertie This pattern was originally published on Patreon on July 15, 2025.
The Niagara Keyhole Bodice pattern was inspired by the gorgeous pink wiggle dress Marilyn Monroe wore in Niagara (1953), created by costume designer Dorothy Jeakins. This fully lined bodice has a sexy keyhole opening and a lower, wider, and deeper V-neckline than the Lisa Bodice (released in March). It is meant to be worn off […]
The Bathing Beauty Bathing Suit is one in a million! Inspired by one of the many gold swimsuits worn by Esther Williams (and by a risqué one in my collection!), this versatile beauty gives you so many options to make it your own. Create a simple suit with a halter strap, or add a ruched […]
This pattern first started when we hacked the Aurora Bodice to have a square neckline for the Ingrid Skirt photo shoot, in homage to the polka dot dress that Joan Crawford wore in The Bride Wore Red (1937). I fell in love with this style and kept refining the design, resulting in the Anni Bodice […]
Nothing says confidence and sophistication more than the Elizabeth Caftan, inspired by the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. With a shaped front fit for a goddess and an elastic interior belt, you’ll be able to flounce (or lounge) in both comfort and style. The shorter caftan makes a perfect summer poolside coverup, and the longer version can be […]
This unisex, one-size-fits-most caftan is a special gift to our patrons to celebrate Pride month, and it’s such an easy garment to sew you’ll be able to whip it up in no time. While it may only have a few pattern pieces, it oozes style and glamour! The Pride Caftan comes in two lengths, with […]
The Norma Turban was inspired by the character of Norma Desmond (played by Gloria Swanson) and her fabulous wardrobe in the 1950 dark comedy Sunset Boulevard. The film is incredible (with costumes designed by Edith Head), but I am absolutely obsessed with the Sunset Boulevard musical currently playing on Broadway, too. It’s a classic! — […]
You’ve been asking for a simple, vintage-style A-line skirt for ages, and here it is! We’ve elevated this 1940s classic with a full lining, a shaped waistband, and optional patch pockets with decorative button flaps. It can be made as a skirt separate or paired with any bodice in the Stanwyck series to create an […]