Folkwear Beautiful Dreamer #224

The prototype for the sewing pattern of this delightfully feminine gown bespeaks the humblest of origins. “49 Cents Buys this Muslin Gown,” boasted the 1902 Edition of the couturier of rural America—the Sears, Roebuck Catalog. Several pages of style and fabric variations (all white) attest to its popularity, and the country lady anxiously awaited the arrival of her dream gown.

View A has a ruffled neckline and is cut just below the knee. View B features a wide triangular ruffled collar and the traditional ankle-length. Both views are full and flowing, with three deep box pleats in back; fronts gather into a gently rounded, ruffled bodice yoke. Side seam godets add a slight flare. Both are closely fitted to the upper body with a deep buttoned opening at left front (which can also be omitted). Long puffed sleeves are finished with slip-over wristbands and ruffles that fall gracefully over the hands.

Today, a creative choice of fabric makes this beauty equally lovely for street wear in bright colors and your favorite belt, or in soft fabrics for slumber. Use Folkwear #225 Childhood Dreams to make one up for a young friend.

Fabric Recommendations: Light or medium weight cottons, linens, rayons, silks, lawn, dotted Swiss, gauze, voile, muslin, challis, broadcloth or flannel.

Sizes: XS-3XL

Notions: Thread, six 3/8" (10mm) buttons. If you would like to substitute 1-2" (2.5-5cm) wide flat lace instead of self-fabric ruffles, you will need 3 7/8 yard (3.55m) for View A, and 4 3/8 (4m) for View B.