Making a Midcentury Slip // Drafting A Slip Pattern

The time has come, I have made a retro slip! A long requested project, today I am making a garment without a waist seam. Who am I! There are many different styles and patterns for slips, but this is a pretty common midcentury option with the bust area separated into a raised empire waist with princess seamed flared panels underneath flowing into the skirt portion.
I make mine in a slightly crisp rayon jacquard, but this would be even nicer in a silk crepe de chine or light flowy charmeuse. Battle the floopy fabric cut on the bias!
The fun rayon jacquards at Mood (Not Sponsored): www.moodfabrics.com/fashion-f...
Music and Sound Effects from Epidemic Sound.
Need to make a block pattern? There are many options, and I talk about several in this playlist! : • Making a Bodice Block ...
Where I get my pattern drafting paper: atlaslevy.com/Paper_c_13.html (not sponsored)
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But wait there's more! A PO BOX finally wahoo!
First, a disclaimer: So many of you have kindly offered to send me things, including vintage items you may have inherited, and I am so honored you would think of me and of course I do adore vintage treasures, however, unfortunately I only have so much storage space currently! So there is a chance that if something just wont work for me, or doesn't fit me etc, that I may not be able to keep all of your lovely things. Please only send things if you are okay with the possibility that I may donate items I just cannot keep. If you would prefer I put things that I can't keep into the TCH Etsy shop to help raise funds for me and the channel, please specify this in a note or letter in your parcel. Thank you so much!
Bianca Esposito
PO Box 632177
Highlands Ranch, CO 80163
Thank you for watching!

[@sandyaledor]

"Looks 84 rather than 48" 🤣🤣🤣🤣 Bianca your witty self description is hilarious! Loved how the slip turned out! And I too vote for a "Get Ready With Me" video or "Make-up Tutorial" of some sort! It'll be fun!🤗

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Sandy!

[@marytwiggs7473]

I have this same fabric in the black ant pattern! I'm making a 1930's underwear set out of it. Gives a whole new meaning to 'ants in your pants' lolll

[@crystilmurch5659]

I LOVE that idea! Also, fun linings are simply fantastic. :)

[@TheClosetHistorian]

A perfect idea! 🖤

[@StephanieCanada]

Bianca: “I get ready in a Star Wars t-shirt, no illusions here” Me: THIS IS WHY I FOLLOW YOU!!! I mean that and all the amazing info.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

You have perfect timing! I just came across a fair amount of silk. I originally thought it was polyester (a very, very nice polyester) because it’s a secondhand haberdashery, and also, still only $4/m. I was shocked when I did the burn test. But, I’m really need new nighties, and silk works even better than polyester. I’ll also save a rectangle to make a pillowcase out of- my curly hair will thank me for it. No way could I have ever afforded a silk pillowcase, but now I can. Woot!

[@Rhaifha]

Ooh, that's a wonderful find!

[@agcons]

By any measure your find is a *steal* and I hope you bought the lot. I've said to people for over 30 years that some polyester really is very nice; it depends on how involved the manufacturing process was and, almost always, how much it costs. Price check: in the late 1980s when the cheap stuff was $4 a metre, the good stuff was $25 a metre. Where I live that translates to roughly $8 and $51 a metre respectively today. I've no idea about actual prices now; I would have to get started again with my stash acquisition hobby.

[@katherinemorelle7115]

@@agcons I did buy the lot- all 4 metres of it. I would have bought more if they’d had more, and that was before I knew it was silk.

[@agcons]

@@katherinemorelle7115 Exxxxxxcellent.

[@mandylavida]

Who does that happen to? The other way round, me of course.

[@trudicole3520]

The slip looks great and I love your hair up in a scarf I love Lucy like

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Trudi!

[@tiamatmichellehart6821]

Your use of eyeshadow makes you look like a butterfly!

[@elizabethunger9223]

Just being able to see the actual movement of fullness moving from dart to dart is SO helpful. Thank you!

[@mariegarside8830]

Re: Bow on your slip, reminded me I'm old enough to remember "every Bali has a bow"

[@msandigail]

This tutorial is so great! I have a 1930s Laros rayon slip I copied the pattern from and have made a few silk repros of it, but I am going to have to try these princess seams! One amazing tip for slippery fabrics, courtesy of my quilter sibling - SPRAY STARCH! It takes a bit of time to apply to the yardage before cutting, but hot DAMN does it helps keep the slipperyness to a manageable level! Obviously test on your fabric to make sure it comes out easily (since you mentioned this rayon is dicey for fraying as well as washing!) but it has been a game changer for me when it comes to sewing slippery silks!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@RetroMinnie87]

I love watching you do dart/pattern manipulation. It's like magic!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@emilyperea]

The paneled slip is from Complete Dressmaking in Pictures!!!! I love that book! It teaches drafting all the blocks and shows how to make patterns from them for women, children, infants, and men.

[@amaronith]

I love the slip so much!! And I would 1000000% love to see a "get ready with me" video from you and see how you do your makeup.

[@terpinator24]

Me, too! I barely wear makeup, but yours looks so cool! It would fun to see how you do it.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@nancybridegam6903]

Bianca, your videos have become my new “rabbit hole” that I binge on, and am late to work because of. Totally worth it!

[@coreygilles847]

I would totally watch make up hauls and get ready with me videos in addition to your sewing videos

[@shortforkatana]

Ahhh thank you for validating my use of "floopy" as a fabric descriptor! I'm in the middle of self-drafting my own slip pattern so this video was perfect timing.

[@ladytaliastorm8882]

Once again - gorgeous! I love how the slip turned out and now I am even more convinced that I can make one (or two... or three). As to the make-up video, PLEASE do one, it would be so much fun!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@lindagoesel3815]

Loved this and yes to everything you suggested. Getting ready,room tour, and what ever. You are such a delight to watch. Thank you for this slip. Been waiting for it. Can't find vintage slips in my area.

[@tambriggs]

I second this!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Linda!

[@apollonianeumer3094]

The drafting process was fascinating! Thank you, Bianca!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@bettyboop18]

I know you are speaking English but you’ve totally lost me 10:58

[@KatherineYoung]

The slip was just lovely! I like the makeup idea because you could do affiliate links on it. Another way to support you and all the content you make!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Katherine! I have no affiliate links or partnerships with brands of any kind though, at least not at this time!

[@dlsgl407]

Would LOVe to see your eye shadow video here! This slip really looks wonderful

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@kimberlylopez6852]

Yes please to the eyeshadow tutorial! You have the best eyeshadow looks, I love how sparkly they all are ✨

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kimberly!

[@annguglielmino8989]

I actually had a dress with similar fabric to the one you are wearing in the intro. I think I bought it in late 70's. Brought back vibes of when I was young and beautiful.😎 I have missed you sewing. Enjoyed this video. Thanks.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Ann!

[@brookrose3023]

This is very helpful, thank you! When you do your eyeshadow, it’s amazing and pretty! It would be nice to see how you do that. And sometimes it’s okay to rock some 80’s looks. The colors of your outfit are too pretty not too.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Brook!

[@lelaniadam]

1. The slip is so cute! This reminded me that I need one for a light cotton skirt I purchased online. The material is thinner than I expected, a bit sea-through, but I love the flowers on it. 2. Your eyes are catching.😉 Yes! 😃Show us your sparkly shadows! ✨

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Lelani!

[@saletasubmersa2307]

I tried sewing a 1940s slip last year but got beaten up by the darts. Thank you for this video, it made things a lot clearer in my head.

[@janevacani6789]

That slip is adorable! Thank you for showing us how to modify the bodice block for no waist seam, being on the short side I am a sucker for high waist pants and empire line dresses! Please show us your make up in a video too 💖

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Jane!

[@MorticiaLaMourante]

I'd love to see some Get Ready With Me type videos, especially featuring pieces you've made. Even on sewing videos, it would be fantastic if you added a note about your eyeshadows and lip color. You know, just in case I can't live without it.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@katek3887]

Would you ever consider doing a Livestream of you sewing? I'm sure I can't be the only one that would find it fun to watch and also like a sew along? I dunno. Anyway, I'm here for whatever you want to do on this channel. It's amazing and brilliant! 🙌🏼😻💫🔥

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I don't think my computer could handle it? I'd like to do one of beading for sure, since the camera doesn't have to move for that, but for sewing I've got like 3 main stations so I would be moving the camera a lot I'm afraid!

[@sakurakiri21]

Oh yes please~ I would love to see a 'get ready with me' video again~ I am here for all your adventures, sewing, styling, collecting and more ~ If it's delicious to you it's fabulous to me !

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kiri!

[@HanabiCraft]

Yes, please, makeup videos! Thank you for continuing to be My People. 💖

[@rd6203]

Your eyeshadow is always perfect, so please drop us an occasional makeup video!!! Doesn't even have to be tutorial style; you could totally use it as a backdrop for one of you just talky update videos! 💙💚💙

[@roryfroschauer4821]

I love the extremely technical term of "floopy" fabric 😂it's accurate though! That's how it feels! I also would love a makeup video. I love your use of bold colors and glitter shadows!

[@squareroutevintage7590]

Geewiz are you a mind reader! I am currently making a slip/ petticoat combo from simplicity and have been worried because I've only found one review on it. With the mockup I've already had trouble with the fit. So this will be my go to video because I really want a basic slip to wear under my dresses. You are heaven sent I swear! I have to make my basic blocks but at least I'll have a direction to bead in after that's done.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I want to try another slip style in the future too so hopefully I'll get another video on that up sometime this year ✨

[@moxiebombshell]

Adding a reply all these months later because I'm curious if you've made any headway on your basic pattern blocks, Square Route Vintage 😊

[@erinsteed2954]

You make the pattern drafting look so simple! I muck it up every time I try…. Thanks so much for the time and energy you put into your videos!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Erin!

[@mandylavida]

You see, now I have to go and remake my hideous poly slip that goes under my equally naff 20s dress. Lovely seam work, B.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Mandy!

[@sllitchfield]

This was the sign I needed to make my bodice block up. I have been dreading it but after seeing this slip, I need to!

[@x1435]

Gorgeous slip! Fun patterns make undergarments ten times better. And making your own slip opens up so many color and print opportunities :D Makeup, redecorating, sewing, bug friends - I'm here for it all!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! ❤

[@MiffoKarin]

I use the vintage slips I find as nightgowns, they're usually really breathable and comfy. I have been meaning to recreate one of them that's basically disintegrating from years of use and cat claws, so this video will be helpful!

[@amyjanefrater1447]

And another thing - I sent out links to your Field Notes series as an extra gift in my Christmas cards. My friends loved it!!!

[@bonniebates185]

I made this pattern in white silk charmeuse several times. The only change I made was lowering the center front. It’s a very beautiful pattern. I loved the draping quality of the bias cut charmeuse.

[@Mysmichelle69]

I love get ready with me videos!! Gorgeous

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@luzUpcycle]

Really enjoy this episode, love it underneath your black lace dress! stunning! thank you for another awesome video!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@loretta_3843]

My mum came to Australia from Italy in 1958 and I have her old slips she brought with her that were handmade with these tiny, neat little stitches. I have no use for them but don't have the heart to throw them away!

[@me1123581321]

I know darts aren't as scary as they look, but watching you manipulate them like nothing is literally magic

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Johanna! ❤

[@jirup]

It always rattles me a bit when people speak of things I wore, or did, as "retro". LOL that is when you realise you are getting old. Beautiful fabric!

[@panacheluxury4262]

I laughed when you said, You are usually "wearing an oversized Star War shirt when getting ready so don't have any illusions." LOL! The slip turned out lovely. I wished Mood had more of this and in multiple colours. Yes, it has been some time since you have done a make-up tutorial. Would love to see the eyeshadow application. Happy New Year to you and your family, Bianca!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! I think they should re-release this fabric in green for me 💚😂 Happy New Year!

[@panacheluxury4262]

@@TheClosetHistorian, For me as well, lol.

[@core0psis]

Yes, please to eyeshadow makeup video! I’d love to see how you do yours and it would be so fun to see your collection! Thank you so much for your videos. I really enjoy them and look forward to sitting down to watch them. May your 2022 bring peace and bright blessings to you and your loved ones. Smootches!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Core!

[@hailtothefire_]

I'm always so fascinated by your pattern drafting. I'm a beginner sewer and no where near able to draft patterns just yet, but watching you draft is like watching magic happen.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Amber!

[@hollynotholy]

I could swear you actually liked bugs. I was up until this point thinking to myself "I wish I liked bugs as much as she does instead of being completely terrified of them", but alas, we both fear those tiny creatures. The slip turned out so gorgeous. The fabric is really gorgeous and it shines very beautifully under that black dress.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Holly! I am conducting jewelry and fabric based exposure therapy 😂

[@kathy7613]

It's beautiful as well as you are.thank you

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kathy!

[@pamelajohnson9810]

I loves the 30s 40s and 50s clothes I loves the hats and 🧤👒👗 gloves and dresses and suits.

[@crystilmurch5659]

The slip is gorgeous. You could totally wear it as a slip dress if you have need of a 90's inspired outfit. Would love to see the makeup stuff. And the home decor stuff. And the DIY stuff. Please share all of the things!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Crystil!

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

Great fun hanging out. Thanks, Bianca!

[@AkumakoCross]

I personally would totally be down to see the occasional makeup video. I dig the tropical reef-fish goth glam you typically don.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@sailerspiff]

Thank you for being a normal human and including the floops and foibles of sewing in your videos. It helps me relax about my own mishaps.

[@lindaleake-beard7230]

You can wash that fabric. I make formal and bridal garments and have periodically had people bring this fabric for their garments. I would hand wash in a large basin (or I use the bathtub) and swish wash it with normal laundry soap. Don't squeeze or ring it.. I wouldn't even roll it in a towel. I usually hang the garment on a rust free hanger and run the shower on it. Reshape the dress or garment and let it dry. Also acetate can fade to weird colors so keep it in your dark closet when not wearing it. I found your channel about 2 months ago. I so love it!

[@Notlost-lj9qt]

Just watching and enjoying the video when suddenly… “Bugs! OMG They’re insects!” Love this fabric. ❤️

[@damogranheart5521]

As someone who always played with her makeup I would love to see how you do yours! 🙏 Please! I love the idea of slips that slide over the figure so your 👗 dresses move beautifully. I get annoyed when I discover that when a certain dress is back lit it leaves little to the imagination. Particularly at a funeral. I want so badly to spend a full day with a friend (or not) perusing the antique stores and book shops. A nice lunch with a cup of tea. A friend of mine has my cloak pattern and I think it's time for me to get it back and go hunting for good material. Thank you for taking the time to make this tutorial for us and may this coming year fill us all with gladness! 🦋🐞🐌🕷🐲🐉

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@kachnickau]

I was thinking how to replicate several of my trifted/vintage slips.. Basic block again. Exciting and scary at the same time, but if I do not crack the basic block this year I should probably sell the machine :D (or just sell out stock fabric). Love the video.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! You can doooo it!! It's a pain, but so so worth it ❤

[@camib2864]

Love the blue bugs! This is fabulous under the black lace. I am helpless with makeup so that would be good, you explain things very well in sewing so I would be quite surprised if makeup was any different.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@vlduran5720]

Oooh with that black lace dress! GORGEOUS

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@candacegreer845]

So I’ve been teaching myself to sew. Feeling a bit behind the curve seeing that a 38yr old started with a “children’s 1st sewing book” I knew nothing I made a slip along with this video but off a 50s pattern and used a soft linen to make a nightgown out of it. Just wanted to say thank you 🙏 for all the inspiration you’ve given me.also I get so many compliments whenever I wear your multi colored V pattern dress you made.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Candace! ❤

[@TheFreckledLassSeamstress]

I love how you explain things! I have been doing voiceovers on some of my videos and I smile thinking, "They have no idea what I'm trying to convey." Lol. I would love to see an eyeshadow video!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@maureencullen1008]

Brilliant tutorial.Your attitude and witty speech make pattern draughting so much more fun to watch.You manage to make the complicated easy to follow.Love the fabric,the colour is gorgeous.I'll be happy to watch any vlogs you want to make.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Maureen!

[@deidrabenson361]

Thanks sooo much for sharing! ❤️❤️❤️

[@killamoosdraree730]

I am so glad you finally did the promised slip! Thank you so much!!!

[@JosieStev]

Lovely

[@Kelli.Hicks.5]

I'd certainly enjoy a get-ready-with-me/makeup tutorial style of video, every so often. Your makeup is always beautifully done, and accentuates each outfit perfectly. 💄

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Kelli!

[@melaniekeeling7462]

I love vintage slips!

[@Absintheskiss]

That slip is lovely. I have been wanting to ask for a make up/hair tutorial for a while now so any you wish to do would be very well received indeed!

[@amyhannon3034]

I love watching you work with darts!

[@samatiesse]

I love grwm videos where you would show of your make up skills and products but actually be chatting about something else

[@FilomenaJackStudio]

So gorgeous! Thanks for sharing!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@reneekitani6230]

Gorgeous

[@lyndaofiowa718]

I love that fabric, floof and all!

[@m.v.1230]

Definitely can't sew like you. But I'm so amazed how you move darts all over the place and create such beautiful clothing.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@inhercuriousroom]

I would love a GRWM! Or several! Much GRWM!

[@Cherieberie]

This came at the perfect time for me! I've spent the past week googling different slip patterns but not finding one I like. Thanks!

[@braydenalexis]

I always forget my seam allowance when tranferring my draping onto paper 🤣 it was funny that you kept saying "before I forget" because I feel like it's a universal experience

[@TheClosetHistorian]

I know I will forget if I don't do it first thing so I'm reminding me too 😅✨

[@kimberlywest7839]

I love all of your videos but your drafting videos are the most helpful and interesting for me. I get excited whenever I see your drafting process because I’m still learning and I love the idea of using math and getting to make my own patterns.

[@shirleydrake1602]

Thank you so much for doing a slip!

[@cwbrownCaroline]

I vote yes on a GRWM!

[@valeriea.gladstone6440]

the fabric! outstanding!

[@kristaschmitt1722]

Yes! All the beauty fashion content!

[@fannydangler]

Perfect timing! I spent all last night searching for drafting instructions for a slip!

[@rrbarrycrna]

Gorgeous!!!!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Rita!

[@ghostsandcoffee126]

I'm here for all the different videos! Love how this slip looks! That fabric is so pretty! 🤩

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@TheZeyre]

Phase 3 of my watch routine! French seams are lovely additions. This garment is coming together beautifully! 🎷⛸️J.

[@temperhollow7716]

Love the fabric of the slip and it turned out so well.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you! 💙

[@baileydobbs2532]

That is the most perfect fabric I’ve ever seen!

[@skirtedgalleons]

Thank you for this, very helpful. And happy 2022!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Happy 2022!

[@Ompe8]

love your fabric choices!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@886jules1]

You are so gifted! Thanks for sharing.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@sweatpantgardener]

beautiful slip thank you for the video

[@drhelenloney1426]

such a cute slip, I love these instructions. I definitely want to try this.

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@catinthehat1486]

Looks great!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!

[@chareseshinabery]

Sweet! I totally wanna make this! Love it!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Charese!

[@krystatschudy2839]

This was wonderful, thank you so much!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Krysta!

[@cathyandersen2984]

Love the design!!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you Cathy!

[@rdfjfgjyfdhfghy67456]

That's a lovely print! Thanks for taking us along on your process! The outcome looks great!

[@TheClosetHistorian]

Thank you!