New York 653: 1950s Uncut Misses Maternity Suit Sz 34 B Vintage Sewing Pattern
New York Pattern No. 653 - Maternity Dress, Early 1950s
A early 1950s New York Pattern Co. maternity dress, No. 653, "Gold Seal Guaranteed Perfect." A separate three-piece skirt with a belted top pairs with a front-closing blouse featuring a high neck and collar, finished with three-quarter sleeves and cuffs.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: New York No. 653
- Year: Early 1950s
- Garment: Maternity Dress (Blouse and Skirt)
- Size: 16 (34" Bust)
- Condition: Factory Folded
Design
A nine-piece pattern pairing a separate three-piece skirt, finished with a belt at the top, with a front-closing blouse cut for maternity ease. The blouse's high neck and collar and generous three-quarter sleeves with turned-back cuffs give it the look of an ordinary daytime blouse, while the loose, gently pleated body does the quiet work of accommodating a changing figure without any visible maternity paneling.
A Moment in Fashion History
New York Pattern Co. marketed its maternity lines, like most of its catalog, under the "Gold Seal Guaranteed Perfect" banner — a small mail-order company competing for the same home-sewing dollar as the major pattern houses. This blouse-and-skirt maternity dress reflects the era's preference for separates that could look like an ordinary matching set from across the room.
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 Co. envelope.
Connections
This pattern is part of our upcoming exhibit, Nursery Notions — maternity wear, layettes, crib covers, and quilts, the sewing life around having a baby. Come take a look.
