The Blue Gardenia

You'll be the Odalisque of the great outdoors in this '45 play suit. May 30, 2012 01:42

Oh, it is sweltering outside. It is. Absolutely. The trash bin is full of soggy, sweat-saturated Puffs to prove it. Sigh. And you know it will be even hotter July Fourth weekend, when you will be exhibiting your fabulous handmade fascinators at the art show in the park. Sure, there are shade trees. But. No AC. None. Nada. Not even a breeze to cool you, because you'll be inside a tent. Ugh.

What to wear? What? Something that will allow you to breathe, to be exposed to air, blessed air! Perhaps that dreamy pattern you just saw at The Blue Gardenia , McCall 6074, copyright 1945. You'll whip it up in that grandilicious pink polka dot linen you've been lusting for at Gorgeous Fabrics.

So. Stop by. Snatch up this oh-so-sassy, oh-so-sexy original vintage pattern at The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (We happily ship abroad as well, but postal charges do apply.)

Dior. Laroche. Simonetta. And shiny stars without names. May 29, 2012 01:32

Oh, do I have treats in store for you, dearest readers. I do. A platterful, in fact. The Blue Gardenia has just added new vintage patterns, and they are smashing. They are. Absolutely. Let me tease you with a few hand-picked cherries:

I love, love, love — let me say it again — love Vogue Paris Original 1310, designed by the masterful Guy Laroche, and that love is true. So very. We've had this one several times, but, alas, not in my size. Drat. (When you adore vintage patterns as I do, and you sell vintage patterns, you must have parameters. You absolutely must. And they must be strong. Unbreakable. Therefore, I can only keep patterns in my size.) I love the collar. I love the culotte. So stylish. Yet, so comfortable.

Simplicity 2153 is another that I see myself wearing. (So far, only in my dreams. Alas. But, one day, I'll find it in my size.) It is so spare, so elegant. The V-neckline is sexy, but still on this side of ladylike. Grace Kelly-Audrey Hepburn ladylike. This dress can go to the office, to church, the grocery store, to the most high-toned restaurant. A regular wardrobe essential. Yes indeed.

Imagine Butterick 6788 whipped up in something sheer and gauzy, something that will show the merest glimpse of your comely shape. Wear it on the beach or by the pool, over your most daring swimsuit. Can you see yourself in it? I can. I can. I can.

And if you are learning to sew, may I suggest Anne Adams Instructor 4992? So cute. So cool. I want to see this one on you. I do. So, if you buy it, you must promise to allow me to feature you in your finished dress right here on this blog. (And for sharing, you'll get a 20% discount on your next TBG order. You will. Isn't that grand?)

Let me finish up with Simonetta's Vogue Couturier Design 1746. I'll let the picture tell the story. It yells. And it whispers.

So. There ya go. A handful of pretties. And we've added so many more. Several handfuls, actually. So click over right this minute. You don't want these to go to someone else's closet. Do you?

All these irresistible — prove my choice of adjective correct, all righty? — patterns can be yours. Just drop by The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we gladly ship abroad for a fee — less than the post office charges us, in fact.) So. Come over. Do. Now.

This is one fabulous vintage fashion show. Absolutely. May 18, 2012 01:14

Oh, my lovelies, it's fashion show time at The Blue Gardenia. We've added a passel of patterns. Just for you. A few highlights to tempt you (and remember, you'll find new additions at the beginning of each category):

All right. She admits it. She doesn't need an evening coat right now. The nights are cool in the desert. But not that cool. And she'll also admit this: She doesn't need an evening coat at all. Not now. Perhaps not ever. But she's going to buy Butterick 8133. And she's going to make it. She loves the sleeves. So powerful. She loves the inset at the waist. So flattering. She'll make it in navy velvet. Silk, of course. And line it in mauve silk organdy. And one more thing: She's going to make a life, too. One that fits this amazing coat. After all, she has until fall.

She's in the mood for a new blouse. Something elegant. Unusual. Very noir bitch vixen. Something that would look right at home in the closet of a Chandler woman. Vogue 5984. That's the one. It will fit a plush padded satin hanger perfectly, and then slide easily onto her rose petal skin. Perhaps in coral 4-ply silk. And it's easy to make. Or so Vogue says. And that venerable company wouldn't pull her leg, would they?

She's in a mood. She is. And not a good one. Not good at all. In fact, it's downright nasty. She has to go to a baby sit and see — or is it sip and see — next month with her sister. Can't get out of it. Can't. Can't. Can't. It's Kelly's first baby, and alas, she won't be out of town as she so often is for work. Drat. She imagines a grueling afternoon of women sitting around staring at a little red lump of wriggling flesh. But if it's a sip and see . . . mmm . . . doesn't that mean liquor? She can get quietly tanked on some she-nectar like bellinis. That might not be so bad. At least, a buzz would make the time pass faster.

Oh well. She deserves a treat for being so darn nice and self-sacrificing. She does. Absolutely. And that little gift to herself is going to be that fabulously sexy dress that Luis Estevez designed for Quaker Oats in 1959. She always chuckles when she thinks of wholesome oatmeal and this wicked dress. Quaker Oats B-4, what a hoot!

She's getting married in June. A simple affair. The courthouse. A brunch with only their nearest and dearest afterward. She doesn't want a dress she'll never wear again. She wants a dress she can wear again and again. Something that will always remind her of that lovely summer day. Vogue 6761 is exactly the dress she wants to wear when she says those hefty two words. In platinum linen. And it has pockets. She can tuck his wedding band inside. She can barely wait.

And yes, all these gorgeous vintage patterns — and more — can be yours. Just drop by The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we happily ship abroad for a fee — just what the post office charges, in fact.) So rush on over. Do. You'll be delighted you did. Yes indeedy.

Colorblock, with 1950 flair. May 15, 2012 02:43

You've been wanting to make a colorblock dress. But not for you the ordinary. No. You want something special. Different. Something distinctly vintage. And you've found the perfect example in Vogue 7111. It's got the esses you require: Smart. Sophisticated. Perhaps you'll make it in brown and aqua linen. Or perhaps lime and blueberry crepe. Mmmmm. Choices. And such delightful ones.

And yes, sweetness, this wonderful pattern can be yours. Just drop by The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we happily ship abroad for a fee — just what the post office charges, in fact.) So rush on over. Do. Snap this one up. Now.

Mission possible: Cinnamon is the blooming garden party. She is. May 10, 2012 01:33

This is the way to be girly. This is the way to exhibit spring colors. Colors straight from the garden: the pink of a Belinda's Dream rose; the green of an August Moon hosta. Cinnamon, smart and chilly agent provocateur on Mission Impossible (that would be the TV show — so much more watchable than the special-effects-infected movies) proves there's no need to be frilly to be feminine.

The details — and you're panting for them, I know: Bust 41. Complete. 25 smackeroos. Available at The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we happily ship abroad — either Global Priority or Express — for less than USPS charges us. Because I am just that kind of fabulous babe. Yes indeedy.)

You've made the Meringue. Now, how about a scalloped top? May 8, 2012 01:05

You've learned how to cut and sew scallops with Colette's lovely Meringue. So. Why not try a Mad Men take? Simplicity 4929 is bee-yoo-tee-ful. And serves double duty: Remove the jacket, and there's a sexy dress underneath. How fabulous is that? From the office to dinner, in a flash. Easy peasy. Absolutely.

The details: Simplicity 4929 Dress, Cummerbund and Bolero Bust 36 Complete $22.

And this sophisticated style is available at The Blue Gardenia. Of course.

Shameless plug: Be a lady. Be a vixen. Or be both. May 1, 2012 02:11 1 Comment

Oh, choices. There are so many this update. In fact, you can be whatever you want to be. Sixtysomething patterns. All are smashing. Do let me share a few personal favorites:

Vogue Americana 2557, design courtesy of Donald Brooks, is the perfect jumpsuit to don for those bitchvixen moments. Slit to there. And there. And there. Love it.

Vogue 6464 is elegant and oozes sex appeal. Whip it up in red silk crepe and take it to the dance floor. When you shimmy, no one will remember Sister Kate.

Planning a beach party? Vogue 6955 is not only cute as lace socks, it's easy to make. Or so Vogue promises. And that sterling style provider would not lie. I know it.

Like huge and graceful sleeves? You could hide a picnic basket inside a sleeve of Vogue 6808.

And if unusual, gorgeous details are your thing, look no further than Spadea Designer NA-2006. Irene Gilbert outdid herself on this impeccable design.

And, yes, all these marvelous patterns can be yours. Just drop by The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we happily ship abroad — either Global Priority or Express — for less than USPS charges us. Isn't that the cat's? I think so.)

Harlow's jammies deliver Christmas in December or July . . . April 25, 2012 17:34

or even earlier. In fact, I ask, why not April? Who wants to wait until the last month of the year for these satiny beauties? I don't. It's probably a

little late to stitch these up for the Did You Make That? Pyjama Party. But you can recline on your sofa, dripping class and oozing sex appeal, long after the party's over. Absolutely.

And, yes — you were wondering, weren't you? — this magnificent pattern is available at The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. And we merrily ship abroad for less than the USPS postal fees.

The book closet: Chandler's stylish, colorful descriptions April 18, 2012 01:29 1 Comment

As you doubtless recall, dear readers, I am besotted with the writing of Raymond Chandler. He knew how to turn a phrase. Asolutely. He described women — and their clothes — like nobody's business. His descriptions were nonpareil, IMHO.

Here's one I came across yesterday while rereading — yet again — The High Window, published in 1946:

A long-limbed languorous type of showgirl blond lay at her ease in one of the chairs, with her feet raised on a padded rest and a tall misted glass at her elbow, near a silver ice bucket and a Scotch bottle. She looked at us lazily as we came over the grass. From thirty feet away, she looked like a lot of class. From ten feet away, she looked like something made up to be seen from thirty feet away. Her mouth was too wide, her eyes were too blue, her makeup was too vivid, the thin arch of her eyebrows was almost too fantastic in its curve and spread, and the mascara was so thick on her eyelashes that they looked like miniature iron railings.

She wore white duck slacks, blue and white open-toed sandals over bare feet and crimson lake toenails, a white silk blouse and a necklace of green stones that that were not square cut emeralds. Her hair was as artificial as a night club lobby.

So. You get the picture. You do. So loud. So clear. What do you think?

Wanna know what I think? Of course you do. You do, right? Otherwise, I might have to reach for the Puffs. You don't want that. Do you?

I think this showgirl blond might have been wearing McCall 5319 — such marvelous slacks — copyright 1943. She might have topped them with McCall 5910, copyright 1944, View B. And for the shoes, may I suggest this terrific pair of shoes from Remix? (Santa, baby, remember these at Christmas. Please. I'll be a very good girl. I promise.)

And, of course, these ever-so-stylish vintage patterns can be yours. They can. Just click over to The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And we happily ship abroad — Global Priority or Global Express, your choice — for a fee, generally even less than the USPO charges us. Are we special? Well, yes. Yes, we are.)

Don't miss a chance to make your own VoNBBS satin sheath. April 17, 2012 01:38

The sheath dress is my favorite pattern from Vogue's New Book for Better Sewing. It merits my most beloved clothing adjectives: Sexy. Sleek. Sophisticated. And I am happy to say that we have another Vogue 7101 at The Blue Gardenia .

If you're a fan of Gertie's New Blog for Better Sewing (and is there a living, breathing sewista who isn't?) you doubtless admired her version of this dress. Isn't she lovely? Isn't the sheath beautiful? Yes. And yes. Absolutely.

So. Don't tarry. Don't delay. Let those well-manicured fingers rush over to The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (We happily ship abroad, of course, although there is a fee, less than the postal service charges us. You may choose Global Priority or Global Express. We love them both. We do.) And we take American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Paypal and Visa.Anything to make you happy, dears. Anything. Almost.

Will you channel Jean? Lauren? Ava? A waitress in a donut shop? April 9, 2012 01:29 1 Comment

Exquisite patterns this week, my lovelies. So fabulous that His Bertness said he's tempted to cross-dress! So fabulous, in fact, that I am going to let them speak for themselves. Absolutely. (Some I've not come across before — and considering how long I've been a pattern fan, that says much.) A few of my favorites among the more than sixty patterns just added:

Butterick 7175 Negligees Bust 36 Complete Circa 1930s $130

Advance American Designer 8292 Dresses Designed by Lotte Bust 36 Complete; skirt trimmed, extensions present $45

And, yes, you can buy these beauties — and so many more — at The Blue Gardenia. To make it easier for our regulars, we place new additions at the beginning of each category. Anything to make spending money faster and smoother for you! We take Amex, Discover, Mastercard, Paypal and Visa. We gladly ship abroad. Do not — I repeat — do not let these beauties get away. Make me happy. Make my little canine pals happy. (They love their treats! They love lots of them! Really.) And make yourself happy, too. Do.

Shameless plug: Free your inner Grace Kelly in a '57 McCall gown. March 22, 2012 11:58

I love patterns. I love patterns. I love patterns! I do. I do. I do. And to illustrate that affection, we've added nearly 60 vintage patterns to The Blue Gardenia. A few of my favorites:

McCall 3466: The spring gala. It's coming up and soon. She must have something new to wear. Something sassy. Something sexy. But something that is elegant. Something with Grace Kelly classicism and flair. She'll choose this one. Its removable panels make it quite special. And those same panels make it versatile. She'll make it up in peony. Satin. It will wow her. And even better, it will wow him. Perfection.

Vogue 8924: She's looking for something easy to make. A project that will boost her confidence in her sewing skills.And Vogue promises that this simple yet sophisicated number isn't just easy, it's very easy. Isn't that wonderful? It absolutely is. She'll use that teal linen she bought last month when she was longing for sunny weather. Oh, she is looking forward to making this one. She is!

Vogue Couturier Design 2497: Winter. Winter. Winter. Will it never skedaddle? The calendar says this one is history. The 20-degree temp says something else entirely. And what it says is "brrrr!" And how. To make these last frigid days bearable, she's stitching up this magnificent Galitzine-designed cape. She is taken with its asymmetry. Charmed by its sleek silhouette. In three words: She adores it. Indeed.

The details: Cape, Skirt and Blouse Designed by Galitzine Bust 36 Complete Circa 1970s $55

And, yup, you can buy each and every one of these lovelies — and more — at The Blue Gardenia. And to make it easier for our loyals, we place new additions at the beginning of each category. Anything to make spending money faster and smoother for you! We take Amex, Discover, Mastercard, Paypal and Visa. We gladly ship abroad. Do not — I repeat — do not let these beauties get away. Make me happy. Make my little canine pals happy. (They love their treats! And lots of them! Really.) And make yourself happy, too. Do.

Mission possible: Cinnamon stuns in an extraordinary LBS. March 5, 2012 00:46

Ahhhh. . . Cinnamon Carter. We should all be as cool. As capable. As smart. As beautiful. As fashionable.

Let your inner Cinnamon out. Now. Be bold. Because. No missions are impossible when you're wearing this sexy yet elegant sheath. And McCall's 6571 is a mirror image. It is. Exact.

And, of course, this red-carpet ready gown is available at The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. But you knew all that, didn't you? Of course you did. (And, yes, we do ship abroad. Absolutely. Enthusiastically. Shipping fees do apply.)

Sexy Pucci culottes. Stylish Lanvin cocktail dress and coat. Yes . . . March 2, 2012 00:58

this is a shameless plug. It is. But I know you want to know that The Blue Gardenia has just added a potpourri of patterns. (Annoying alliteration, indeed. But sometimes, I just cannot resist. And sometimes I simply refuse to resist.)

A few favorites, among the many:

Oh my. These are outstanding. So chic. So timeless. So comfy! How can you say no? Dont even think of it!

Want to practice the welt pocket techniques you learned in Gertie's latest Craftsy class? Vogue Special Design S-4689 offers that opportunity. And the collar is so dramatic. And bee-yoo-tee-ful.

Want to channel Bette Davis in a fabulous 1940s blouse? then look no further than McCall 3605. Love love love this one!

Of course, if Jean Shrimpton is your style icon, may I suggest this magnificent Lanvin-Castillo coat and cocktail frock? I see it with a French twist.

Doncha just love patterns? Doncha just love vintage style? I do. Aboslutely.

And, yes, these patterns are available at The Blue Gardenia, along with thousands of others. Thousands! The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. We also ship abroad — happily — but there is a fee, although we charge less than the postal service charges us.

This Simonetta design is simply irresistible. March 1, 2012 07:40

She wants a new dress for Emma's wedding next weekend. Something simple. Elegant. Versatile. Something she can wear again. And again.

It will be a simple affair. At the courthouse in Santa Fe. She'll witness the occasion. She saw the perfect pattern at The Blue Gardenia. Vogue Couturier Design 1697, circa 1960s, by Simonetta. It will be easy to make this weekend. It will be smart in cornflower blue wool crepe.

Can you resist it? Say no. And scurry over to The Blue Gardenia and make it your own.

The chic VNBBS sheath dress pattern can be yours. Want it? February 11, 2012 17:23 1 Comment

Today, such a lovely surprise came my way. It did. I found, while organizing my stash, Vogue 3385. This jaw-dropper could only have been better if this lovely sheath pattern had been in my size. Alas. My loss, your gain, etc.

Now. You know that this dress is one of the chosen patterns. One of those tony styles featured in Vogue's New Book for Better Sewing. Gertie blogged about it here. Doesn't she look gorgeous in it?

And now for the rest of the story . . . February 6, 2012 01:47

You, dear readers and shoppers, were probably wondering why we didn't add any 1930s, 1940s, 1950s this time. Well, they are here now. Or rather, you'll find them on The Blue Gardenia website. You will.

A few of my favorites, in case you care. (And you do, don't you? Don't put my heart in the shredder. Please.)

Vogue 6937: Isn't this gorgeous? I think so. In fact, I love it. Absolutely. And the artwork, too. So 1930s.

Vogue 9830: I am gone over the two-tone version. Yes indeedy. And it's "Easy-to-Make," or so says Vogue. And I know they wouldn't lie. They wouldn't. Because. They want all of us newbie dressmakers to keep sewing.

Vogue Couturier Design 990: Talk about channeling Audrey. This elegant and beautiful dress does. Absolutely.

And, yes, there are oh-so-many more. You'll also find new in Lingerie and Accessories. So rush on over. We take all the majors — and Paypal as well. And of course we ship abroad. With pleasure.

She cries hooray for Givenchy's VPO 2208. And how. February 2, 2012 00:47

She loves men. She does. But a long-term relationship? That, that is another story. She's been accused — more than once — of treating men like Puffs. She doesn't think that's really true. She always gives her utmost, and she's always true, always, in her fashion. Can she help it if she gets bored after a year or two? Can she? Can she help it if she loves to flirt? Well, of course, she could. But. She has no intentions of stopping. It's such fun. It is. And she's so very accomplished in that area.

One thing she'll never get bored with is Vogue Paris Original 2208, designed by Givenchy. She wore it when she was mad for Isaac. She'll not forget the Valentine Ball — the dancing, the banter. Gazing into his Paul Newman blue eyes. Oh, that was such a lovely night they spent at that quaint inn by the bay. Walking, talking, as Ella singing

If a custom tailored vet
Asks me out for something wet
When the vet begins to pet, I cry hooray

floated gently on the air from some distant jukebox. She wore the evening version, which she stitched up in silk crepe. Four-ply. In a lovely pink the color of Delta Mints. Too bad they no longer make them.

And then there's the day version. She's worn it so many times. She made it in an exquisite light-weight wool knit, the color of a Chrysler Imperial rose. She has such fond memories of wearing it that weekend in Chicago with Benjamin. He will always have a special room in her heart — but he wanted more than she was willing to give. So much more. A wedding ring, you say? Darling, darling, no, she thinks not. Most emphatically.

Ahhh, the details, if you please:

Vogue Paris Original 2208 Day or Evening Dress Designed by Givenchy Bust 32½ Complete $100.

And, yes, you guessed it, this magnificent pattern is available at The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. And we merrily ship abroad for less than the USPS postal fees.

Our first Albuquerque update. Don't miss these amazing patterns. February 1, 2012 01:24

Here it is: The Blue Gardenia's first New Mexico update. Rather exciting, I think. I hope you do as well. You'll find designs from Givenchy, Lanvin, Dior, to name a few. Let me share a few favorites:

She's going to be a June bride. But she's not one bit nervous. She hasn't shed a tear of frustration. She hasn't had one anxiety attack. Not one. She is calm. She is cool. And she's going to look beautiful in Butterick 3859, designed by Chetta B. She loves the tiers. She loves the bias band. Not your usual tiers, though. These are sleek. And this dress is modern. Nothing frothy about it. Nothing at all. His heart will be racing as she glides down the aisle. She is sure of it.

The details: Butterick 3859 Top and Skirts Designed by Chetta B Bust 34-38 Still in factory folds $33.

She adores 1920s fashions. But she's only been sewing awhile, and she doesn't have the courage yet to tackle an authentic 1920s pattern. That's why she is absolutely crazy about Teresa Nordstrom's cape, Simplicity 4947. It's inspired by clothing from 1920-1925, and it has a divine drape in the back. She's going to make Version B in royal blue velvet, lined in lilac charmeuse. It may be a challenge. But. She will rise to it. That she knows. Absolutely.

The details: Simplicity 4947 Cape Designed by Teresa Nordstrom inspired by fashions from 1920-1925 One Size Still in factory folds $33.

She's in the mood for something mod but mature. Something powerful and eye-catching. Something that will present just the right image at the business conference she's attending next month. Vogue Paris Original 2007 fits the bill. Perfectly. She will impress.

The details: Vogue Paris Original 2007 Dress Designed by Lanvin Bust 38 Complete $45

And, dear readers, there are oh-so-many more. Do stop by. Do shop, shop, shop. At The Blue Gardenia, of course, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. And we happily ship abroad as well, for less than the USPS charges us.

You'll look tastier than a box of chocolates on Valentine's Day. January 17, 2012 11:28

Ahhh . . . Valentine's Day is less than a month away. And you already have a dinner date with that dreamy veterinarian you met in October. You've pawed through your walk-in closet. Nothing seems right. Nothing sends a frisson up your spine.

You'll make something. Something glamorous. Something ever so special. Perhaps McCall 4476. It's from 1955. The dress has a luscious neckline, with a ladylike yet sexy dip in the back. And there's a coat as well, one that flares delightfully in the rear. Yes, definitely. That's the one. You'll use a fuschia doupioni. Line the coat in a floral charmeuse. Perhaps underline it for more body. And definitely horsehair braid in the hemline. You want it to really stand out. Structure. Shape. Bliss. Absolutely. And the dress . . . it will flare delightfully on the dance floor. It will. Oh, and won't this ensemble look smashing with those floral flats you saw on sale? Yes indeed.

And, yes, this dress is available at The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. We also ship abroad — happily — but there is a fee, although we charge less than the postal service charges us.

Rush on over to The Blue Gardenia. Fulfill your shopping urges. Now. This minute. Don't say no.

This oh-so-smart 1940s pattern can be yours. Yes, indeed. January 13, 2012 07:33

It's chic. It's sophisticated. It's in a highly desired size — Bust 36. And it can be yours for a steal during The Blue Gardenia's Take the Left Turn at Albuquerque sale.

The fine print: Buy three or more patterns, get 35% off your total order! Isn't that exciting? I think so. But hurry. The sale ends this weekend. Don't let this opportunity to save on counted, checked, archived patterns get away. And we take American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Paypal and Visa. All to make you happy. All to make it easy. For you, dear readers.

And we do ship abroad as well. Happily, in fact. We charge less than the USPS charges us. Isn't that grand? I think so. I do.

Take the left turn at ABQ and save, save, save on lovely patterns! January 7, 2012 16:25

You're wondering— I know you are — about our annual end-of-year sale. The bad news: We didn't have it. We were in Prescott packing. We were. Box after box.

But.

There is good news: The Blue Gardenia is having a Take the Left Turn at Albuquerque sale instead. So here's the scoop:

Buy 3 or more patterns, get 35% off your total sale!
Sale prices good now through
11:59 p.m. PST Sunday, January 15, 2012
Payment must be received by Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Shop Early for Best Selection!

Free your inner glamour goddess with sleeves the size of Paris. October 16, 2011 12:23 1 Comment

You have a weakness for big sleeves. Huge. Really. You don't mean big enough to hide a chihuahua. You mean big enough to tuck your Scottie inside. And McCall 3771 gets your juices flowing. Totally. It's got stupendously full sleeves — and a hood. How delightful is that? It adds that perfect soupcon of mystery. You love it. You do. This 1940 pattern (one that this patternphile hasn't seen before) has a hint of Joan Crawford blended with a bit of Myrna Loy. Might as well channel the great ones. Might as well. Yes indeedy.

The details: McCall 3771 Two-Piece Day or Evening Dresses Bust 38 Complete; skirt trimmed, extensions present $125.

Oh. This one is a beauty. You're salivating already. And you haven't even chosen a fabric yet.

Where to find this fabulous pattern? Why, at The Blue Gardenia, of course, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we happily ship abroad — either Global Priority or Express — for less than USPS charges us. Isn't that grand? I think so.)

Sew these: A slinky '30s top. An elegant '40s hostess gown. October 7, 2011 10:45 3 Comments

I'm all atingle with excitement. Why, you ask? Because. Because The Blue Gardenia is awash in new vintage pattern additions. So many. So fabulous.

Shall I tempt you with a few of my favorites? Was that a yes? I heard a yes. I did. Indeed.

So. Let's go.

New York 167: So slinky. So Jean Harlow. So 1930s. Wear it at night with black velvet pants. Wear it for day with jeans and boots. Love this one. I do.

Vogue S-4263: Myrna Loy. Lana Turner. Channel the glimmering stars as you glide down the red carpet in this sophisticated number. Make it in a cherry wool crepe for day. Try a soft silk crepe for evening. In emerald, I think. You'll be stunning. And your fans will be picking themselves up off the floor.

Vogue Paris Original 2382: Nina Ricci did us all a ginormous favor when she unleashed this powerful wrap coat dress from her creative mind. For the ultimate '70s chic, make the midi version in mauve worsted wool. Can you say gorgeous? Yes. You can. And you'll be strong, too, when you don this.

Vogue 7883: So versatile. So beautiful. So comfortable. Make this one in denim for easy weekends. Whip it up in shantung for those special nights. And it's easy-to-make? So says Vogue. How wonderful is that?

Butterick 4133: Now this, this is a hostess gown. Imagine greeting your guests, air kisses for each one, as the scintillating chatter rings throughout your refined flat. Oh, they will be talking for days. Weeks. Months. You'll be the new Perle Mesta.

All of these smashing vintage patterns can be yours. Just drop by The Blue Gardenia, where the patterns are counted, the jewelry is sparkling, and domestic shipping is free. (And, yes, we happily ship abroad — either Global Priority or Express — for less than USPS charges us. Isn't that grand? I think so.)

Previous
Page 6 of 9
Next