Ladies Home Journal 3040: 1920s Uncut Misses Dress 34 B Vintage Sewing Pattern
Original 1921 Ladies' Home Journal Pattern No. 3040 - Ladies' Kimono Dress
Original 1921 Ladies' Home Journal Pattern No. 3040 for a ladies' and misses' dress closing at the left side-front over a tucked or plain vest. The kimono waist may be finished with a tucked or plain short sleeve, or extended to full length with a one-piece lower sleeve section. The one-piece straight-gathered skirt sits at the regulation waistline and is topped by a matching straight-gathered tunic, which may likewise be tucked or left plain. Factory Folded and Unused. Envelope shows honest wear.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: Ladies' Home Journal No. 3040
- Year: 1921, confirmed via April 1921 Ladies' Home Journal
- Garment: Ladies' and Misses' Dress
- Size: 16 (34" Bust)
- Pattern Condition: Factory Folded
- Envelope Condition: Worn
Design
Pattern 3040 was styled as a "matron's best frock," suited to a heavier silk such as crepe de chine. The kimono waist and vest closing at the left side-front give a soft, unfitted line, while the tunic-over-skirt construction adds a fashionable layered effect. Both the sleeve and vest offer a tucked or plain option, letting the dressmaker vary the formality of the finished piece - and the pattern was originally paired with a coordinating embroidery transfer for those wishing to add hand decoration to the vest or tunic.
A Moment in Fashion History
Pattern 3040 appeared in the April 1921 issue of The Ladies' Home Journal, illustrated as a "matron's best frock" in heavy white crepe de chine, worn alongside a lighter, embroidered companion piece. The magazine noted that the pattern's straight-across neckline could easily be cut into a V-shape instead - a small customization typical of the era's home sewing culture, where a single pattern could be adapted to suit the wearer's preference.
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 Ladies' Home Journal pattern envelope.
Connections
View our entire Ladies Home Journal for a rare glimpse of how sewing patterns were designed and marketed for the whole family. Take a look here.
