PRINTED PATTERN- 1950s Gathered Blouse

Wearing History R164- 1950s Gathered Blouse

PRINTED PATTERN- a physical pattern that is mailed to you!  E-pattern downloads are available separately in my shop.

This fun gathered blouse pattern is a time traveler, and works well for authentic vintage 50s looks, as well as fantasy faires and modern dressing!

This pattern is based on a period original.  This pattern is available in sizes 32"-44" bust, all in the same packet.  The sizing is generous in circumference so may work for larger bust size with some possible armhole alterations and longer waist tape.  The original pattern was only available in sizes up to 36" bust.

Intermediate Difficulty. Read more below!

Original Period Description:

MISSES’ BLOUSE: Drawstring blouse slips on over the head–  Make it with raglan sleeves or in a sleeveless version– On all views, twill tape is applied to back at waistline and ties at front to hold fullness in place. (VIEW I) Blouse with short raglan sleeve–  Neckline and sleeves with ribbon drawstring are finished with narrow eyelet edging. (VIEW 2) Blouse with three-quarter length sleeve pushed up above elbow– Use elastic insert instead of drawstring–  Wide eyelet edging trims neckline and sleeves. (VIEW3) Sleeveless
blouse with ribbon drawstring.


Intermediate Difficulty
Suitable for an Adventurous Beginner or Intermediate Level. The most challenging construction is adding the bias binding and facing, which finish the neckline and sleeves and act as a casing for elastic or ribbon.  The vintage instructions can be vague, so I suggest checking out my blog posts for visuals of how bias facing and binding work.

Please allow at least two days between finishing the skirt and hemming it, in order to allow the bias of the fabric to drop. This isn't a weekend project, even though the sewing is quite quick! The hardest part of this skirt is marking the hem to be even all the way around, and sewing a narrow hem. The hem circumference is quite large since it's a circle! It helps to have a sewing buddy to mark your hem for you, or a dress form so you can mark your hem yourself.



Sizes Included
Please see images for size chart.

Bust sizes 32"-44" are all included in the same packet.

The fit is very generous on this blouse, so larger sizes may find it works for them, with some adjustments to the armhole depth and allowing for a longer waist stay (or omitting it).


About Wearing History Resto-Vival™ Patterns
Resto-Vival™ Patterns are original historic patterns that have been restored and revived. Original patterns are usually available only in single sizes, precut from tissue paper and totally unprinted, with details like grainlines and darts indicated only by small perforations. Resto-Vival™ patterns are printed on sturdy bond paper instead of tissue and clearly marked with drawn and labeled markings. These markings aid the modern sewer in understanding the markings of the original pattern and the construction of the garment. Resto-Vival™ patterns follow the period shapes of the original patterns, maintaining the historical accuracy of the completed garment. Original period instructions are included. These instructions are text only (unless otherwise noted) and fairly minimal, especially compared to instructions for modern patterns. At least an intermediate knowledge of dressmaking and a good familiarity with pattern construction is suggested. You may choose to have a modern or period sewing book handy to help with basic construction methods that the pattern instructions do not cover in detail. Also, fitting a muslin mockup is strongly recommended, as all garments were meant to be worn over period foundation garments or corsetry.

1950s 1940s gathered peasant renaissance ren fair blouse