Original circa 1936 New York Pattern No. 722 - Ladies' and Misses' Dress

Original circa 1936 New York Pattern No. 722 for a Ladies' and Misses' shirtwaist-style dress. This design may be closed under the left arm, with fronts and back of the waist gathered to yokes, and a high neck perforated for a V-shaped outline in front. Two collar styles are offered alongside long set-in sleeves perforated for a short-sleeve option. The attached three-piece skirt carries an inset band at center-front and a patch pocket. Factory Folded and Unused.

Quick Facts

• Pattern Number: New York No. 722
• Year: Circa 1936
• Garment: Ladies' and Misses' Dress (Shirtwaist Style)
• Size: 18 (36" Bust, 39" Hip)
• Condition: Factory Folded

Design

This dress gathers its front and back waist pieces to yokes at the shoulder, giving soft fullness without heavy bulk, and closes discreetly under the left arm rather than straight down the front. The high neck is perforated for a V-shaped outline instead, and two different collar styles are offered, alongside long sleeves that can be perforated short. A button placket runs the full length of the three-piece skirt, finished with an inset band at the center front and a single patch pocket for practicality. Thirteen pattern pieces in all.

A Moment in Fashion History

Yoke-gathered waists paired with a full-length button placket reflect the practical, shirtwaist-inspired dressing that remained a daytime staple through the mid-1930s -- easy to get in and out of, with enough tailoring detail (two collar options, a V-neck perforation) to avoid reading as purely utilitarian.

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, In Name Only -- a growing collection of New York Patterns and Own Name Patterns from the 1930s. Come take a look.