Thanks for joining me in my next installment of our monthly club where we are revisiting our 2016 Vintage Notions Monthly magazine issues. The timeless wisdom and inspiration that are found in the pages continue to inspire me and prove true the adage what’s old is new again.
The June issue finds us entering into the summer months and all the excitement the warmer weather holds. Growth and change is in the air as several articles turn to dealing with growing children – girls in particular. I love the article titled “Early-Teen Frocks”. In modern times, this age group has been deemed the “tween” years and having lived through it myself with both a son and daughter, I can testify that is can be both challenging and fun! One day they are sure of themselves and what they want; the next day, they are not. Alwilda Fellow said it best:
“That difficult “in-between” age – how deeply it concerns the majority of mothers, not only in regard to the rapidly changing ideas and habits of the miss who no longer takes a noticeable interest in doll’s clothes, but also in the matter of providing becoming dresses, hats and wraps that will suit her fancy. Perhaps, as yet, she has not fully awakened to the possibilities of expression in clothes and is neglectful, or at least indifferent, concerning her appearance. On the other hand, she may be unduly self-conscious because of the number of inches that, with alarming rapidity, have been attaching themselves to her person, principally in adding length to her arms and legs…However, there is one very excellent means of making one feel at ease –and that is the satisfaction of feeling suitably and comfortable dressed.”
I also appreciate the article on “A Lunch in the Open”. Seldom do we seem to have time to venture outside for a picnic lunch in our fast paced, high tech lives. This article highlights everything you need for a well placed, perfect picnic from choosing the best spot, to selecting the right basket to what types of foods to prepare. I love the idea that the author, Laura MacFarlane’s, picnic outing would include starting a fire to make coffee. She said,
“If you have never experienced the delight of a cup of coffee made in the woods, plan a picnic some time soon, especially for this privilege. Probably you have have a good-sized coffee pot that you can use for just such occasions, but this is not really necessary, as most delicious coffee can be made in an ordinary pail. Before you leave home put into a small muslin bag 1 tbsp of coffee for each person to be served and either sew this up or tie it securely. Then, when your fire is at its best, place the bag in a pail, cover it with as many cupfuls of cold water as there are persons in your party, and allow the water to boil for several minutes. Served with sugar and rich cream, such coffee cannot be excelled.”
She then suggests roasting marshmallows over the dying embers! Sounds more like camping that a modern day picnic!
You will also enjoy articles on updating your hats for growing girls, and articles on The Wages of Study and The Achievement of Unselfishness.
Each issue also includes amazing illustrations of 1920’s fashion! June’s issue features some beautiful dress styles including slenderizing costumes, capes and coats, home dresses and children’s frocks. This section titled Fashion Service not only provides the artistic renderings of these fashions but also a detailed description of the garments including materials, alternations and other interesting details.
Each issue contains our simple the Magic Pattern! A magic pattern is a stylish sewing project that does not require a printed tissue like modern patterns. You simply use your personal measurements and the guides provided in the magazine to create your fashion. This month’s project is the Shoulder Bolero.
Each issue also provides a helpful chart with guidelines on taking accurate measurements so you get a good fit!
Join me next month as we explore Issue 6. For more information on purchasing back issues or signing up for a monthly subscription to Vintage Notion Monthly, visit our magazine page. A FREE copy of the Vintage Notions book comes with every yearly subscription.
