Original circa 1935 Hollywood Pattern No. 997 - Waistcoat Blouse Set

Original circa 1935 Hollywood Pattern No. 997 for two versatile misses' blouses, with RKO-Radio Pictures star Ann Harding featured in the inset photograph on the envelope. Blouse 1 is a waistcoat style, buttoned at center front below a notched collar, with an inverted back pleat and a belt set in from the side seams. Blouse 2 softens the same silhouette with gathers at the yoke, a narrow tied collar, and wrist ties on the long sleeves. Both share a single sleeve pattern cut in one with the yoke. Complete and in Nice Condition.

Quick Facts

• Pattern Number: Hollywood No. 997
• Year: Circa 1935
• Garment: Two Blouses (Waistcoat and Tied-Collar Styles)
• Size: 42 Bust, 45 Hip
• Pattern Condition: Complete Nice Condition

Design

Thirteen pattern pieces build two distinct blouses sharing a single sleeve-and-yoke piece. Blouse 1 takes a tailored waistcoat approach: buttoned center front below a notched collar, an inverted pleat at the back for ease, and a belt set in from the side seams, in long or short sleeves. Blouse 2 takes a softer approach, gathered to the yoke at both front and back with a narrow tied collar; its long sleeves finish with wrist ties or a buttoned band. Recommended fabrics for Blouse 1 include pique, flannel, linen, jersey, and silk crepe, while Blouse 2 suits flat crepe, taffeta, and novelty cottons.

A Moment in Fashion History

The mid-1930s blouse offered a practical way to vary a wardrobe without a full new dress, and Hollywood 997's two versions - one tailored, one soft and gathered - reflect just how much range a single pattern could offer. The envelope features Ann Harding, an RKO-Radio Pictures leading lady of the early-to-mid 1930s known for sophisticated, patrician roles in films like The Animal Kingdom and Peter Ibbetson, at a time when she remained one of the studio's most prominent contract stars.

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 Hollywood pattern envelope.

Connections

This pattern is part of our ongoing exhibit, Hollywood Glamour - celebrating the golden-age film stars who shaped Hollywood Patterns' vision of glamour through the Depression and WWII years. Come take a look.