258 Town and Country Dress

Sizes XS - 3XL

This charming halter Dress (circa 1949) is based on a gown by American designer Claire McCardell. ­McCardell’s version was floor length and made of chocolate brown taffeta with a black grosgrain belt and a black organza bow at the neck. The front was adorned with a row of rhinestone buttons.

We offer two neck options – one for the bow tie fold and one without.  You can make your dress in anything from summery cotton prints to luxurious silk or velvet, and in lengths from floor to thigh high.

Bare shoulders are beautiful, but this dress also looks great with a short bolero jacket.

Dress has a side zip and on-seam pockets and fastens with hooks and eyes at the back of the neck.  And, the pattern includes a pattern piece and instructions for making and tying the bow.

This pattern is available as a Paper pattern and PDF pattern.  Choose the pattern format you want in the drop down menu.  The PDF pattern has instructions, authentic detailing and files for copy shop (36” and A0), print at home (A4 and 8.5”x11”).

Suggested fabrics: 
Dress:  Medium-weight cotton, rayon, silk, wool challis, and blends.  
Bow: Light, crisp fabrics such as organza of taffeta.

Yardage Chart (PDF)