This is the only Claire McCardell pattern I own; I'm almost afraid to sew with it. What if I did something thoroughly boneheaded, like cut through it? It's been known to happen. Also, I'm waiting for the perfect fabric to present itself. I would like to think that I could pull off red shantung, as in the illustration, but that would be just fooling myself, sadly.
Claire McCardell was a pioneering American sportswear designer who made gorgeous and practical clothes women could actually move in. (Check it out — this dress has pockets!) She's practically my hero. Someday I will own a copy of her What Shall I Wear? but not while it's topping $150 at Alibris …
A Dress A Day 
Hon, don’t use the original pattern! Trace it! I trace *all* my patterns. Never use the original. In fact, if you’re willing, you can send it to me and I’ll trace us both copies. =DLydia
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I’m so lazy and impatient, I never trace my patterns. But I might just take you up on your offer! In a couple weeks, when I’m done traveling for a while?
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Sassybelle? Is that you? (In the event you are not, I’m not insane, I was just … thinking of someone else.)In addition to having your pattern traced, may I respectfully suggest you (carefully) press the pieces flat with a dry iron, then fuse them to iron-on interfacing, which will help stabilize the pattern, and keep it from crumbling into oblivion. Yes, it means it’s no longer in mint condition; it means it’s also less likely to disintegrate. You can also go onto ebay and see if you can scrounge up the Folkwear Claire McCardle pattern, which has been discontinued, but may still be available.(La BellaDonna found you via The Manolo. Sassy, if it’s you, this is Stitchin’ Witch!
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You’re on. I’m going on vacation mid-month, myself, so perhaps sometime in July? I’ll email you with my info.–Lydia
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That dress is gorgeous. I hope you find the right fabric, I’d love to see it finished.Louisep.s. Thank you soooo much for the email and dress suggestions. I will email you again when I have a chance.
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Oh! that’s beautiful. I crave the pattern.
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I’ll second the suggestion to trace the original pattern onto a durable material. http://www.birchstreetclothing.com sells “Sewable Swedish Tracing Paper.” This paper resembles a lightweight interfacing and it’s now on sale!http://birchstreetclothing.com/notions2.htmlCheers! MaryBTW – Stunning dress! Thanks for sharing!
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These are the kinds of dresses I love!!! And they’d go well with my jewelry! 😉
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If only you knew just how envious I am of you! I’ve been looking for a Claire McCardell pattern for *ages*. Sniff.
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That is fabulous! Have you made anything with it yet?if not, get with it girl – that’s kind of like keeping the silver in a chest in the dining room and never using it….
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That is a gorgeous dress; the red shantung sounds wonderful (but I’m biased – most of my dresses are red!)
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Hi,I am finding this beautiful pattern by Claire McCardell a bit late in the game (Jan.07), but what led me here is a Butterick pattern for sale, style # 4919, that seemed soooo familiar that I did a search for Claire McCardell dresses, and your pattern here came up. There is a strong resemblance between these two patterns (but the Butterick is new, and for sale).Question: would it be possible to show the BACK side of this pattern envelope, and maybe the drafts of the dress as drawn on the inside directions? With that info, I think I could try making my own version (sigh)thank you,Jennifer
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Jennifer — wish I could scan & post, but I’ve lent this pattern to someone and I don’t have it in hand now!4919 is also discussed here:http://www.dressaday.com/2006/11/people-are-good.htmlGood luck!
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oh.. I have two or three of the mccardell cloister dress patterns somewhere… bought them years ago and have found them to be very versatile on stage
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Ilove everything she did… Do you know a place or a website where I can buy them… ? For the fabric -if you didn’t already made this dress- I would advise you some nave floral pattern, for the short sleeved version. Something very fresh with tiny “semis” flower print. I love the one that Algerian or Moroccan women use to make their blouses and dresses. Would give something very french forties countryside girl. get some cork plateform heels to go with it !
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just browsing through old posts — the book you mentioned has dropped to $98 on Amazon…
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was googling Claire and came across your blog, but I am a regular reader so was pleased to see you are a Claire fan.I have two copies of the book, one a signed first edition and one without dust jacket. I also own (my prized posession) an original Claire McCardell for Townley dress…red cotton plaid, long gathered skirt, fitted bodice with brass hooks. It’s amazing and fits like a dream (and I’m a size 42!). Of course, all my Claire things are also among the most expensive things I’ve ever bought, but I am so glad I have them. You should totally make that dress.
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Claire McCardells wonderful book from 1956, What Shall I Wear? is due to be reprinted in September 2009. Pre-order your copy from Amazon.com; you will love it!
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Is anyone looking for a real Claire M dress? They are out there in vintage clothing stores and can be purchased and copied. I own two.
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Just came across this post while browsing- this pattern is reproduced and available through evadress.com Its available in two size ranges, 32 to 42″ bust and 40 to 50″ bustn and it’s only $20. I’ve been pleased with all of the reproduction patterns I’ve purchased from her. http://www.evadress.com/4292.html
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Erin, please tell me that you have made this dress in the seven years since posting this.
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I did! Here’s the link: http://www.dressaday.com/2007/01/more-from-my-closet.html
It was not hugely successful, but I may try again soon …
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