New York 709: 1930s Darling Uncut Misses Swing Dress Sz 36 B Vintage Sewing Pattern
Original 1936 New York Pattern No. 709 - Ladies' and Misses' Swing-Skirt Dress
Original 1936 New York Pattern No. 709 for a Ladies' and Misses' swing-skirt dress. The waist is made with a high round neck, perforated for a square neck in front or a deep V-shaped neck with attached revers and an inset gathered vestee. Long set-in sleeves are perforated for short sleeves, and the dress closes under the left arm and again at the back of the waist. Factory Folded and Unused.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: New York No. 709
- Year: Dated 1936, confirmed via COPA (Commercial Pattern Archive); also documented in a 1939 catalog appearance as "Swing-Skirt Dress"
- Garment: Ladies' and Misses' Swing-Skirt Dress
- Size: 18 (36" Bust, 39" Hip)
- Condition: Factory Folded
Design
This dress offers real range at the neckline -- a high round neck as the plain default, perforated instead for a square neck in front, or for a deep V-shaped neck finished with attached revers and an inset gathered vestee for something dressier. Long set-in sleeves are perforated for a short-sleeve alternative. True to its "swing-skirt" name, the attached four-piece skirt is built for movement, flaring generously from a fitted waist. The dress closes under the left arm and again at the back of the waist rather than down the front, keeping the bodice's various neckline options uninterrupted. Seven pattern pieces in all.
A Moment in Fashion History
"Swing-skirt" styling -- a generously flared, movement-friendly skirt paired with a more fitted bodice -- reflected the growing popularity of swing dancing through the later 1930s, and patterns marketed around the trend often stayed in catalogs for years, as this one did, still being sold in 1939 well after its original release. Multiple interchangeable necklines on one bodice gave a dressmaker real range from a single pattern purchase.
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
Though this New York Pattern's own design dates to 1936, its documented 1939 catalog appearance shows it was still being sold right on the eve of the war -- a reminder that wartime wardrobes were often built from patterns that predated the conflict itself. Explore our ongoing exhibits showcasing the resourcefulness and everyday style of wartime home sewing, Women of WWII, and New York and Own Name pattern lines from the 1930s, In Name Only.
