Tuesday, March 8, 2016

Vogue Summer Pattern Catalog

The Vogue Summer Pattern Catalog was released today.  I am pretty underwhelmed.

Vogue 9187

I do like that the Vintage Vogue line is testing out a new decade, but did they have to choose such a basic design?  There are so many more interesting styles from the Sixties.  This is a basic shell with princess seams, two neckline options, with or without sleeves (which are probably drafted with the same armscye).

Vogue 9187 & Vogue 9189

But my biggest gripe is that this simple top is all that is included with the pattern number.  Contemporary patterns generally include a top and bottom in one pattern envelope.  Now we get to buy a basic top pattern with an MSRP of $27.50.  What the heck?!  It also looks a whole lot like BurdaStyle 7175, which includes a skirt, hat, and scarf.  The princess seams are not an exact match, but it’s pretty darn close, includes an entire wardrobe, and costs a lot less.  

Vogue 9187

I am sure that these pants were not originally paired with the top, even though both are dated 1960, and they certainly work together.  But I am still cranky over the fact that the two vintage reproduction releases are so basic and include so few options.  

Vogue 9189

If these pants are well drafted, they are a great addition to the Vintage Vogue collection.  But I just wish one of the two designs was a bit more spectacular.

Vogue 9189

The catalog cover is this Nicola Finetti dress.  From the waist up, I love it.  However, the skirt brings to mind some Dave Matthews Band lyrics:  "Hike up your skirt a little more and show your world to me."  No need to hike anything up . . . just sit down and all will be revealed.  So do I need a pattern that will require significant alterations to make it wearable?  Probably not, but I do love that neckline!


Vogue 1498

This Rachel Comey top is wonderfully quirky!  The fabric choice makes it look slightly clunky, but I love the design.  With a drapey fabric, this one has some possibilities.  The pants are not my style at all, but at least they aren’t boring.  Actually, I think this top would pair quite nicely with the vintage shorts.


Vogue 1507

I like this Tracy Reese design as well, but I feel like it might be slightly cumbersome with the dress and slip - I wish the two pieces were combined.  The seaming in the skirt is difficult to see with the print, but I really like the shaping it gives the dress.


Vogue 1502


So while none of these designs are must haves for me, at least the collection has a lot of variety.  Do you have any new favorites?

15 comments:

  1. The two that caught my eye were 1507 (the green top you show) and V9186 (diagonal elastic mandarin collar dress) strangely enough. I would never wear either with my body shape but I think they're fun and unique but still wearable.

    I really like the neckline on V1498 but you're right- the rest is unfortunate.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Underwhelmed describes me too. Last night I saw the announcement on IG and raced over to look and then, meh. The Nicola Finetti dress is the only one that caught my eye.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Nodding my head in agreement with your comments. Can't imagine sitting down in that Nicola Finetti dress. I do like the Tracy Reese.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Move that slit to the back of the halter dress and it would be perfect.

    ReplyDelete
  5. I actually liked V9192 the swimsuit with one shoulder and ruching. I wasn't so impressed with the rest of the patterns.

    ReplyDelete
  6. I am also disappointed in the vintage release, but it's better than the spring where there were none released. I thought it was nice that they tried swimwear, but the model's poor boobs look saggy given the shape of the bikini top!

    ReplyDelete
  7. I love the total look of 1507.The others...Naw....

    ReplyDelete
  8. I was very disappointed in the new collection. Everything was meh to me. I guess it's a good thing, as I just realized exactly how many patterns I have, and do not need anymore.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Has it not dawned on anyone at these pattern companies to consult you??

    It is high time for a "Season of Laura Mae", so to speak.

    With you steering the ship, style and elegance would be unleashed, and perhaps create a rebirth of interest in current sewing patterns (significance meets profitability).

    I can't be the only one who has connected these dots.

    ReplyDelete
  10. There is no sitting down in v1498 (my husband tried to argue how ladies always figure out how to not show it all while sitting down, and he admitted this was not possible) (one of the more amusing conversations we've ever had, thanks).

    I've never cared for Dave Matthews and now I dislike him more. Ew.

    ReplyDelete
  11. It seems to the designs of professional designer. Beautiful!

    ReplyDelete
  12. I love everything about this post! The beautiful fabric, the lovely blouse, your impeccable finishing skills.sewing patterns

    ReplyDelete
  13. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  14. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  15. These designs are simply splendid! Thank you for sharing Laura!

    ReplyDelete