1940's day dress - very likely a "feed sack" dress based on material and construction. Likely late 40's to 50's.
No materials tag - burn test indicated cotton. Weave and texture like burlap but fairly soft (not itchy or overly coarse)
Antique tapestry style floral print in deep red and green
Fitted bodice with darts at bust and waist. A-line skirt has inverted pleats for extra fullness and movement
Bias binding inside sleeves and at hem
Back zip - hidden Talon zipper with painted metal pull and teeth & hook and eye
Fitted half sleeves
Unlined
Maker: Unknown / no tag. Most likely homemade.
SIZE / MEASUREMENTS
No size tag. Fits like an XXS-XS. Maximum 32" chest, 25" waist, and 35" hip suggested allowing for ease of wear. Shaping seams and darts will fit smaller measurements nicely as well. Shown on XS dress form. Check shoulder and upper arm measurements, as well as these, tend to run smaller in clothing from this era than modern garments.
Flat measurements
Shoulder seam to seam 14. 5"
Chest pit to pit 16. 5"
Waist 13"
Hip 18. 5"
Overall length 37"
Bodice length (shoulder to waist) 14. 5"
Sleeve length 8. 25"
Sleeve circumference (measure around upper arm) 11. 5"
Sweep 62"
Has a bit of give but not much actual stretch. For the best idea of fit compare flat measurements above to a similar item that fits you well.
CONDITION
Very good condition - someone really loved this dress and took good care of it, and the fabric looks practically new. Some paint on zipper is scratched and some small sections of seam were repaired. A couple of pulls in the fabric - see close up photos. No stains, smells, or holes. Clean and ready to wear.
This dress shows evidence of being altered during its lifetime and was dated based on construction as found. Some seam edges appear hand finished / merrow stitched while others are unfinished, and inverted pleats were made by adding panels of fabric rather than folding over one piece, indicating that they were created from extra fabric or added later.
Zipper was possibly added later or moved, but is consistent with the time period. There is about a 1/4" of usable seam allowance throughout.
This item is sold from a vintage boutique in Dallas, Tx.
