Tutorial: 40's Style Playsuit

A great little outfit to get you through summer is a vintage style playsuit - however, even though they're currently 'in fashion' it doesn't make them any easier to get your hands on one! Finding the right modern version or vintage pattern can be a time consuming adventure unto itself - so taking matters into your hands can often be the best option.

This tutorial looks best when you use an old shirtdress with a reasonably voluminous skirt, and is a great way to use thrifted dresses with cute patterns that are just a little too short to be worked into a vintage inspired wardrobe.


I love the swallow pattern on this, but I don't wear it as often as my knee length dresses, so it's going to be sacrificed for the sake of this tutorial :P (please excuse my scummy makeup-less face, I've got a cold and seriously can't be bothered looking pretty).

Step 1: Put the dress on inside out, and mark the crotch. This can be done in one of two ways, depending on the type of dress you're using. I prefer to measure down from the waistband, however, if your dress doesn't have one, a pin will do just as well.


Step 2: Take the dress off, and put a pin about an inch below your crotch measurement, to allow for seams and sitting room. This is your chance to make sure it's all even, so be careful! Try it on again to make it's comfortable and sits well.


Step 3: Cut! Snip away from the hem of the skirt right up to the crotch mark.


Step 4: Hem to your desired length, and finish the seams using your preferred method.

Et voila! You've got yourself a spanking new playsuit!