New York 4: 1950s Rare Uncut Designer Sun Dress Sz 34 B Vintage Sewing Pattern
Original circa 1951 New York Pattern No. 4 - Dress and Bolero Jacket
Original circa 1951 New York Pattern No. 4, an Exclusive Design by Jean Modiste, for a ladies' and misses' dress and bolero jacket. A square-neck, sleeveless bodice sits above a fitted, belted waist and a slim three-piece skirt, with a separate bolero jacket in 3/4 sleeves to wear over it. Factory Folded and Unused.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: New York Pattern No. 4
- Year: Circa 1951
- Garment: Dress and Bolero Jacket
- Size: 16 (34" Bust)
- Condition: Factory Folded
Design
New York Pattern No. 4 is billed as an Exclusive Design by Jean Modiste, built around a square, sleeveless neckline and a close, fitted waist held in place with a removable belt. The attached three-piece skirt keeps a slim, narrow line straight through to the hem, letting the dress work equally well on its own or layered under the separate bolero jacket, cut with 3/4 sleeves for easy coverage. Twelve pattern pieces are included.
A Moment in Fashion History
Designer-attributed patterns like this Jean Modiste exclusive gave home sewers a way to claim a named designer's eye for line, not just a generic house style. Here, the fitted waist and slim skirt favor a controlled, close silhouette over dramatic fullness, while the separate bolero jacket reflects the era's fondness for layering pieces that could dress a look up or down.
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 New York 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: wasp waists, tailoring, peplum shaping, and structured silhouettes. Come take a look.
