How to sew a vintage shirt waist dress

[@belindacoba5158]

Some of SewRena quotes live rent free in my head like : I let my clothes speak for me or I dress for my feelings and emotions...

[@WinfreyWright]

Okay, I am developing a major crush on Sewrena (though I am an old gay white man who doesn't know how to sew). Watching these videos takes me back 60 years watching the women in my family make clothes. We were a poor, rural farm family and anything that could be made at home, was made at home. The vintage styles remind me of my mother. Mr. Sewrena hit the jackpot with her.

[@gerardacronin334]

That dress is gorgeous and timeless. Yellow suits you so well.

[@ladyflimflam]

LOL. My favorite outfit of all time was my dove grey wool trousers with a yellow silk turtleneck under a yellow boiled wool jacket. I always got complements about looking like a ray of sunshine in the winter. Your dress is beautiful and will be beautiful all year round. Pastel forever!

[@hannahstraining7476]

Oh my lord. Don't pay any attention to someone who tells you you are wearing the wrong colors for the seasons. I mean, Really! Let people do what brings them joy! Of course you want to wear yellow in the winter! You look amazing in yellow and it brightens your mood. For that matter, it brightens my mood to see you wear yellow when I look out my own winter window and see only a dirty gray.

[@stalstonestacy4316]

The first 4 dresses i ever made were shirt waist dresses. My primary complain about modern or reproduction patterns is the skirts are never full enough. But I love this style of dress. It's been a favorite for 30 years

[@SewRena]

You are right they aren’t full enough but it’s a great place to start since it’s easy to access and more affordable for a beginner.

[@notever8932]

I laughed when I got to the part about the tracing paper. 😊 I, too, never used tracing paper until very recently when I found an old stash left to me by a relative. It was such a game-changer and I kicked myself for not figuring out that simple trick sooner. It greatly simplifies my projects, especially when I have to put them down for an extended period.

[@hannahstraining7476]

I loved that part, too! But for a different reason. I used to sew in my teens, and I always used tracing paper and a wheel. That's the way I was taught to do it in 8th-grade Home Ec. That was, oh, let's see...1972-73.

[@joycleckley2881]

My mother shopped 3 or 4 stores in Montgomery, Al in 1973 trying on long gowns for my brothers upcoming June wedding. Lo, and behold, she went back to Loveman's and lurchased the very first long dress which was a shirt waist with a chiffon overskirt which had knife pleats, GORGEOUS fit and appropriate for all 3 of our weddings. Then that was the dress we buried her in when she passed at age 82 in 2018.

[@SewRena]

Thanks for sharing with me sorry for your loss. Sounds like a very pretty dress

[@delana2842]

The dress is just gorgeous, Serena! I cannot wait to see the bolero jacket made. 💛 You can never go wrong with tracing paper. It is a shame not much of it can be found these day and that, that is on the market, isn't as good and is usually expensive. This is baffling given tracing paper was at one time a thing and one of the cheapest notions to purchase for sewing projects.

[@stilettodivah]

Who is this imaginary person who determines what colors we're suppose to wear? I'm grown. I wear what I want.

[@SewRena]

Hahah it’s so funny b/c that’s the best part about being grown.

[@sewingintrifocals-alisonde7778]

Um, I think it’s the same person who says, “No white shoes after Labor Day or before Memorial Day.

[@sewcute_sewvintage]

It has to do with colour theory. Like how western countries prefer complimentary colours and eastern countries prefer tertiary colours. So it has to do with your own colouring and the colour wheel and the society you live in. And honestly it pretty much changes back and forth every decade when it comes to eyeshadow colours. It can be fun to look into and if you like it you like it and if you don't you don't. I for one will always wear a dark lip AND a dark eye and pink with red and red with purple. It really only matters in marketing

[@oekmama]

It’s you who decides from among what buyers put in the stores. Unless you make your own clothes. 😅

[@crystalgreene971]

I know that’s right!!!!

[@EphanyasisOwleyes]

That dress is beautiful you chose the right Fabric and everything for that

[@SewRena]

Thank you so much

[@pjbarber4640]

You do a great job of explaining why you like the way different dresses are put together. I've been sewing on and off for more than 40 years and I learn something every time I watch one of your videos. Thanks! BTW-i learned to sew on a Kenmore machine. Love yours!

[@liligray3544]

I wore lots of shirtwaist dresses back in the day. I made most of them. Love how yours turned out. ❤️

[@jenc.3259]

Gorgeous! I love how you were able to take complete control of the seasonal vibe by choosing a versatile base and pairing with the optional collar. No one tells Serena how to color the seasons

[@Lisargarza]

Love that, lol! No one tells Sewrena what color to wear! And she always looks fabulous!

[@Mamado88]

I’m very pro colour effecting one’s mood, I wear bright and pastels all year long and it makes me feel better. My six year old son is always in rainbows and it brings me a lot of joy

[@AmandahLynn]

Color season is whatever looks best on the wearer not what the season is. You're never out of season.

[@teleriferchnyfain]

I made a shirtwaist dress in 7th grade (1964) in Home Ec. My first dress (not counting Barbie dresses lol) Mine had a little collar. That Dritz tracing paper really took me back!

[@Southern.Nappiness]

The SHIRTWAIST dress is my FAVORITE dress from the 50's!!😁😁😁

[@elainelear4982]

That is a sweet dress. I love the yellow print. To me it feels cheerful.

[@SewRena]

Thank you 🥰💕

[@lindeehopkins6439]

Sooo lovely! My stepmother wore this style of dress in the very early 1960's & I thought she was the most beautiful woman ever in them! Unfortunately this style never looked as wonderful on me as it did on her & now you!

[@SewRena]

Sorry the style doesn’t work for you! I don’t like the overly blousy style on myself.

[@geministargazer9830]

Sometimes it comes down to the undergarments

[@amber_kitty8782]

I'd love to see a more in-depth look at the different details that make each decade's shirtwaist dress different!

[@SewRena]

Skirt volume and shape as well as shoulders and cut of the sleeves. 1940’s had a slimmer skirt with more defined shoulders: the 80’s did 40’s but make the shoulders way bigger. 50’s had more rounded shoulders and larger more full skirt. There were also sleeveless options 60’s were very similar to the 50’s but the the mid to late 60’s the skirts got a tad shorter just below the knee and less full. 70’s everything got smaller more Aline and short. 90’s the skirt was mort straight and long.

[@amber_kitty8782]

@SewRena oh my gosh thank you! This was so helpful! I'm really into 80s style but there's not as many videos looking at it from a construction standpoint. we get it, they wore neon and legwarmers... lol

[@kayleemansfield2959]

I find vintage tracing paper actually works BETTER than new tracing paper! The new stuff is so waxy that to get a transfer you end up destroying your pattern piece. I like to get mine from estate sales, it never fails! 💕

[@barbiedesoto7054]

Turned out gorgeous! And I loooove that you wear what brings you joy. You’re supporting everyone to do the same! One if the reasons I love sewing vintage is making my clothes just for me. It’s funny people feel so bold to try to make others conform. Your style and Tasha from Tasha Could Make That are both so bright and inspiring! Great job on this make. It turned out so crisp and delightful!

[@saleemahfareed4790]

I love all your outfits you make and I enjoy your videos thanks for sharing 💜😊 14:41

[@ghostfeathers321]

Omg girl same with pastel colors, they just make winter more peppy. Who wants to look gloomy?

[@SewRena]

Exactly this 💕❤️❤️

[@jvzzyc_]

I love love LOVE the color you chose! I think yellow is as universally weather "appropriate" as it gets lol 💛😁

[@SewRena]

Right!! I love bright colors

[@hesperheart6622]

The perspective change you offered when you talked about dressing for your emotions and how you feel vs weather has me so inspired.

[@SewRena]

Last winter was one of the best ones I’ve had since shifting my attitude about the colors I wear. Plus you definitely stand out when you wear winter clothes in colors that are impossible to find in store.

[@bonnielundholm5535]

I support wearing what ever color you want without worrying about the season.

[@SewRena]

Agree! the shift to different colors is fun at first but after about a month I hate it. So I do fall colors up until about November just for some variety then I’m back to pastel for an atomic Christmas/ holiday 😍

[@ashleymainmakes]

Yes!!! Team bright colors all year! I think they are your best colors too. 💛💛💛

[@Hevynly1]

I love a good shirtwaist dress! Nothing is cuter or more comfortable! And I think you look lovely in pastels!

[@blufaerie]

I love these types of dresses even though I don’t wear them. I feel inspired to make one, so that might change! 😊

[@SewRena]

Yea make one once you get that bodice fitted well they are so quick

[@CarrieWhite-w5z]

Oh my gosh! My daughter used that fabric you're wearing in her high school fashion class!! She loves mid century modern.

[@robinnehls8057]

Whenever I can I make my own bias tape. Beautiful dress. Love the French seams.

[@theresahansell3507]

I didn't realize that I was so old. When you showed the tracing paper for 49 cents I remember going out and getting some when I was younger like 11 for $0.39 on sale. I still have it I still use I have always used it. I used the dressmaking chalk or the tailoring chalk for marking patterns on like plaids and flowers if I want things to match up and of course on the mannequin when I'm adjusting. I named my mannequin Sybil she's probably a little younger then me.😅

[@EphanyasisOwleyes]

I love making different styles of dresses and other garments it's always fun to experiment with different sewing techniques

[@BSWVI]

Tracing paper is the best! So easy, didn't shear, doesn't show, fun to find the best colour - not so dark that it shows through and not so light that you can't see it. You'll be thankful for it

[@marathorne6821]

The dress is beautiful 😍 and you look amazing in it. If a colour makes you happy, then you go for it, lady! Don't listen to any busybody who tells you what colours you "should" wear at any particular time of year! 🙄 Your life, your preferences.

[@emolorin1070]

Oh this is so timely, I was just today trying to puzzle out front closures on dresses and now it makes sense!! What a lovely dress, I'd wear it year round

[@daudreebaker4015]

Love your vintage fashion design And your fashion design room is very pretty. Have a blessed day

[@deva190]

Wow, I never thought about it.

[@SewRena]

I could have gone on and on with examples through the years the shirtwaist is a forever staple.

[@judithcatlett8518]

Love the clothes era you chose. That was my mother’s era and I thought she dressed beautifully.

[@industrialwhimsy]

I love this dress and the yellow looks amazing. I also support you wearing the colors that make you happy. ❤ They look great on you and I learn so much from your videos.

[@quazylade90]

Cute. I appreciate you dressing for your mood. That's what makes you you.

[@karenhaley3444]

Your darling dress makes me miss my shirt waist dresses so much!

[@AmberBlase]

Your dress came out beautiful! And loving how you changed up the collar for autumn. I'm with you. I'd rather wear the colors that make me happy (for me that's bright yellow, magenta, white and light grey) than have to 'match the season'. Thanks much!

[@karencollins7732]

You look beautiful in this dress 💖🥰🎶🦋 Thank you so much for sharing everything with us!!! Wear anything you want to!!! I do too!! I collect vintage slips, nightgowns and dresses. Some of the slips are so pretty!! They are so much prettier than the dresses!!! You can actually wear some of these slips as dresses. I shortened some of the slips to the hip and wore them with all lace tops under them with little sweaters and jeans and cowboy boots. Just add silk flowers and rhinestone headbands to your hair and vintage jewelry and pins. It really looks great!! I can't wait to see what you make next!! Please take care and stay safe and healthy 💕💗💖🎶🦋

[@sandrazboinski6473]

Love the dress. I agree that dressing for how you feel is better than other's ideas.

[@joybellamy5561]

Of course the dress is beautiful I love a shirt waist dress but it’s funny someone said that you don’t dress according to the weather I can’t believe that that’s like you can’t wear white after Labor Day but why do they make winter white fabric?😂❤ Please continue to dress the way that it makes you happy because when you’re happy, we are happy😂❤❤

[@dennismirac6603]

And I'm sure you didn't ask for this person's opinion.

[@petapendlebury9024]

You look lovely in pastels! I had actually never considered changing my strong bright colours for the season but then that may be a UK/Europe thing as we don't really get definite seasons? What we tend to change is weight and fabric choice for the different weather. Yesterday was lovely and warm so lightweight, today looks more like autumn and will definitely be warmer clothes! I have also used carbon paper in the past (if you can get it!) to trace but that is a permanent mark so would depend on the fabric choice!

[@lesliejacobs3605]

You look amazing in this beautiful dress!! I’m like you and wear what feels good to me.

[@christink.5264]

Gorgeous. I love the vintage sewing inspo. I bought a shirt dress pattern and plan to sew it soon.

[@sewvintagebysunraedoll]

Adore the cut on this vintage pattern ✂️ -& I love a good yellow dress too! ☀️

[@freezo244]

I made a really cute aqua cotton shirtwaist dress for a summer wedding in MS a few years back. Also wore it with gloves👌🏽Although I’m on the larger side, I decided to go for it anyway. I loved the dress but I learned they really do look if you don’t have a large waist. Spanx didn’t do the trick :/ I absolutely love yours and you look great in it! 💙

[@Kathywake23]

The shirt you're wearing is stunning! It's so bright and loud! I love it so much!

[@SewRena]

Thank you🥰

[@katalins.murphy2825]

Fantastic! Yellow really is your color!

[@Dizzyknitsandcurls]

You and your happy yellow dress are gorgeous

[@teddy-3765]

Another very nice make. I like the difference that the collar makes to the look.

[@rachellemmonds6598]

You always look good in everything you make. Thankyou for sharing all you projects, I have a new love for vintage dresses.

[@Justafan333]

Adorable ❤️ A ray of sunshine during the dark days is what everyone needs so shine with all that you’ve got 🥰

[@EphanyasisOwleyes]

Someone gifted me one of those vintage buttonholer and I think the thing is cool

[@SewRena]

It’s perfect

[@EphanyasisOwleyes]

@@SewRena I think I will actually try it on my Sears Kenmore

[@debcarroll8192]

I love using a tracing wheel for darts! I am glad your tracing paper still works. I love that you wear pastel colors all year round-- why shouldn't you wear what you love?

[@SewRena]

Oh I love the carbon paper especially for marking buttonholes. Pastel all year round forever. It’s so cute and it feels bright and happy

[@WaterNai]

I wish that the Mirandas who decide what we are all going to wear each season would remember that no matter the weather we still need colors that 1) compliment our skin tone and 2) make us happy. I have the reverse version of the color problem you do-the pastels and bright colors of spring and summer are lovely on other people, but they are not flattering on me. Each time the weather turns warm, I struggle to find shirts and things in any color that looks nice on me besides white and sometimes black. This is another reason why I have started a journey towards a me-made wardrobe.

[@Sjp374]

I love that you wear cheerful colors all year! I live in an area where winter is a favorite season. Wearing dreary colors doesn’t even make sense because it’s a fun, sparkly, festive season. Dressing for your mood makes so much sense, too! And I think yellow is the perfect color for autumn!

[@sarahlarson8335]

Beautiful! The colors thing got me because I'm like that only with me it's bright colors that most people would probably say feel more spring. I'm team wear what makes you feel great.

[@paulahardin8141]

I love the way this dress came out!! Beautiful job!

[@thelittlelearningfarm622]

What a beautiful dress. Wonderful job and very inspiring.

[@carrieh922]

Love this dress!! New to the channel. You look fantastic in yellow 🥰

[@SewRena]

Thank you and welcome💕💕

[@kimberlyknowles6967]

Beautiful!!!

[@SewRena]

Thank you 🥰

[@a_charb]

Gorgeous!💛

[@theresasmith1000]

I LOVE your vibe! pastels all year long!

[@stevieann4813]

The dress came out beautifully and fits you very well.

[@christine55416]

Great video, I'd also love a close up of you wearing the finished dress too so we can see the buttons, or waist seams, or a twirl from waist up also to see more dress details too❤

[@kendspan212]

I just found you and I’m amazed. I’ve always wanted to make my own clothes. I’m a tall woman and nothing fits me just right. But I have never learned to sew. I’m hoping to start sewing by the end of this year. I’ve got a long way to go! But I’m going to do this!

[@hsbvt]

I love it! The yellow is a great color!

[@jessyjonas4988]

Absolutely 💯 Thanks for sharing your talent

[@msmichi4718]

Such an adorable little dress!! :D I hope to get far enough in my sewing journey that I can craft gorgeous clothes like this

[@janematthews6579]

I cannot say enough good things about this delightful video!

[@SewRena]

Thank you 🥰🥰

[@45darkandlovely1]

Gorgeous dress!!!

[@FickleMamaVintage]

Your aspic weights are so cute!!!

[@kellybryson7754]

Wear what makes you happy! Here in California, I don't think we have any seasonal color rules!

[@SewRena]

I love that!!!

[@TheKetoKittyGamer]

Yup, you still look timeless

[@jeannebrooks6003]

I’ve been searching for a pattern for a shirtwaist dress for my size, but came up nil! I’m a 2X-3X and my stomach is my size issue. I’m nearly 70 yrs old so these styles bring home memories. Also, I’m curious where you find your foundation garments. They don’t seem as available as when I was younger.

[@reneehubbard9027]

I love the look on you and the color and fabric are so pretty.

[@cynthiasloan3867]

Great video. Beautiful dress and I love yellow. It's such a happy color and it looks fabulous on you.

[@SewRena]

Thank you so much 🥰

[@Gosewsomething]

Very pretty. Love the fabric choice

[@vanessaknight7129]

I wear what ever color I feel at the moment.

[@deborahkurek2988]

Love this pattern and looks gorgeous on you ❤

[@ladypinkbagsetc.9116]

This is so pretty, and I love that dress!

[@autumnwind3028]

This made my day! Thank you so much for that💚🥰🦋 Also this dress was beautifully done!

[@BelairKitten57]

Would love to make a cute button up waste dress of very thin ivory coloured polyester or nylon georgette fabric with a traditional mid-century notch collar and small utility breast pockets. It's a soft, flowing and highly washable fabric that most of my vintage blouses are made of. They really wash up nicely and i love the silky matte textures as well as shiny satins.

[@sonian7234]

You look fabulous in everything you wear ❤ and btw i have never heard of a requirement to wear certain colours for certain seasons that's just ridiculous

[@mariechristinerichard6748]

This look is gorgeous. Thank you.

[@natalielebron5532]

Beautiful you dress so elegant!!

[@sphinxmoth1]

I just love your style.

[@bruttoribes6410]

Could you make a video about the making of the petticoat too? I'd love to see that! Also the dress came out amazing I might try making one myself 🌼❤️🌻💛

[@brendaseavey6284]

Fabulous video 💛 I too, love pastels year round.

[@SewRena]

Thank you 🥰

[@Vintage_Lover]

I just found your channel and I am ecstatic. Love it !

[@helloworld5182]

I love this dress!

[@Rotten_Ralph]

Always delightful

[@terrijackson1210]

Sooo pretty!