New York 854: 1950s Uncut Designer Cocktail Dress Sz 34 B Vintage Sewing Pattern
Original circa 1951 New York Pattern No. 854 - One-Piece Dress
Original circa 1951 New York Pattern No. 854, a Louise Scott Creation, for a ladies' and misses' dress. A back-closing waist with a V-neck and collar can be made with long or short sleeves, set above a six-piece skirt with plaited drapery inserted at the front side seams - creating a dramatic hip flare over a fitted, removable belt. Factory Folded and Unused.
Quick Facts
- Pattern Number: New York Pattern No. 854
- Year: Circa 1951
- Garment: One-Piece Dress
- Size: 16 (34" Bust)
- Condition: Factory Folded
Design
New York Pattern 854 is a Louise Scott Creation built around a striking hip treatment: plaited drapery is inserted into the front side seams of the six-piece skirt, gathering into a soft flare over the hip before the skirt continues in a slim line to the hem. Above it, a back-closing bodice with V-neck and collar can be made with long or short sleeves, and a removable belt keeps the waist defined against the drapery's volume. Ten pattern pieces are included.
A Moment in Fashion History
The draped hip treatment on this Louise Scott Creation reflects one of the era's favorite tricks for building shape without relying on a fully gathered skirt - concentrating volume at the hip rather than letting it sweep the whole way to the hem. Paired with a fitted, belted waist, it's a distinctly structured silhouette, in keeping with the decade's broader move toward dramatic, sculpted daywear.
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.
