Costuming Hints by Mary Beth Hodic

The Simplicity Pattern Company website is at http://www.simplicity.com/index.html. There are three patterns that are suitable for 1920s costuming.

For the first one, click on the Simplicity Summer 99 catalogue icon. The dress is listed in both the millennium and the dresses sections. It's #8513, a pseudo-20s dress with a sewn in panel that imitates a drop-waisted sash. Excellent choice for non-sewers or beginners. (In the millennium section it's the first dress in the seventh row; in the dresses section it's the second dress in the second row in the "all season" area.)

Under special occasions is #8776, from their "Retro" line. I would recommend this one for intermediates. It's a classic. (It's the first dress in the first row.)

Under costumes is #8739. Most costume patterns are usually relatively easy, so a beginner with patience could do this one. (The first pattern in the second row in the adult section.)

The fabrics suggested for #8776 and #8739 include chiffons, satin, and other slippery fabrics, which are hard for a beginner to work with, as well as lace, which takes some patience as well.

I strongly suggest women click on the "see envelope back" line, the info there will give them a better idea if the pattern is within their skills.

I think that #8776, at least, could be done in drapey solid-colored cottons and rayons as well, and they're much easier to work with for beginners.