1940s Vintage McCall Sewing Pattern 7917 Junior Misses Dress Fitted Waist 29 B
Original 1949 McCall Pattern No. 7917 - Junior Dress
Original 1949 McCall Pattern No. 7917 for a junior dress with a dramatically nipped waist. A shawl-style collar tops a fitted bodice, cut down to a sharp chevron-seamed midriff, above a full, gathered, below-calf skirt. Complete Nice Condition, envelope Worn and Repaired.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: McCall No. 7917
- Year: 1949
- Garment: Junior Dress
- Size: 11 (29" Bust)
- Condition: Complete Nice Condition
- Envelope: Worn and Repaired
Design
McCall 7917 builds its shape around a sharply pointed, chevron-seamed midriff that cinches the waist between a fitted bodice and a full, gathered skirt - the New Look's structured hourglass rendered for junior sizing. The bodice closes with a notched shawl collar and is built over shoulder pads for a squared shoulder line, while the sleeves may be finished as turned-back cuffed three-quarter length or set with a slide fastener at the wrist for a closer long sleeve. A tie belt or back sash cinches the waist further, and a side placket zipper keeps the closure discreet. Sixteen pattern pieces in all.
A Moment in Fashion History
Dior's 1947 New Look had, by 1949, filtered down through the pattern industry into everyday dressmaking, and McCall 7917 shows how thoroughly its silhouette had been absorbed. The structured shoulder, dramatically nipped waist, and generously full skirt - once the language of high Parisian couture - were now available to any home sewer with a pattern, fabric, and an afternoon to spare.
Illustration
The cover illustration has been digitally restored and enhanced by Judy Yates to highlight the original fashion artwork while preserving the character and artistry of this historic McCall pattern envelope.
Connections
This pattern is part of our ongoing exhibit, The Ladies of the New Look - a growing collection celebrating Dior's 1947 New Look and its influence on everyday dressmaking. Come take a look.
