The Blue Gardenia

Shameless plug: You deserve a Christmas present. You do. December 6, 2009 12:52

Do you have your smelling salts handy? If not, fetch them. Quick. Why? Because we have just added fabulous patterns to The Blue Gardenia, nearly 70 of them, and they are sure to have you faint with desire.

Shall I share my favorites, the ones that have this little heart o' mine going pittter-patter-pitter-patter-pitter-patter? I shall. You know it.

In no particular order, here they are:

And if you need an evening dress, of the tell-me-where-you go-it-now-or-else variety, then look no further than Simplicity 2229, circa 1930s. This one is not cut on the bias, but you could do so, if you dared. It's fully loaded as is, though. And since there are not one but two dresses in it, it's truly an investment pattern. Worth every penny. Truly.

Another outstanding evening dress, with a nod to style maven Madonna, is Vogue Designer Original 1605, copyright 1995. It's designed by Bellville Sassoon, and it is stunning, stunning, stunning, and ever-so-sexy, from its laced corset bodice to its flirty and full skirt. Imagine the rustles if you made it in a stiff satin. Love this one. Love it. Absolutely. Do you dare where it to the office Christmas bash? Mmmmm . . . I say, yes, go for it. Those nerdy co-workers deserve a treat. So let it be your Christmas present to them, Ms. Generosity, you.

And for your ladylike moments — and I know you have them — McCall 9366. So Grace Kelly. So very. Love the flap details. The stole. The slim silhouette. You could even make it out of silk shantung for a cocktail dress conversion. I want this one in my size. I do. Got it in a Bust 36 or 38? Call me. Do. And, by the way, in case you care, it's from 1953. Did I say this one has me salivating? It does. Really.

There are so many more marvelous patterns! I would not lie. I would not give you, dear, dear readers, false hope. I wouldn't.

So. Click. Shop. Enjoy. You've been good. You've been shopping, shopping, shopping for everyone else. Now you, my princess or prince, you deserve a present. Or two. Santa told me so. You have been good this year. So very, very.

You'll also find new in Maternity, and there are quite a few ensembles suitable for Betty Draper. And, as always, new additions go at the beginning of each category to make it easier for our loyal customers (I thank you, I do). And remember, we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal, to make it easier for you. So rush on over. After all, I need groceries. I like my Joan Holloway hips.

Autumn in Mexico: This is what the gringo said to pack. October 2, 2009 07:17

Today, current ex-pat, former newspaperman and ever-so-handsome and sometimes disagreeable (Is there a man who isn't? If so, introduce me. Now.) co-worker Felipe Zapata shared a video of his town, Patzcuaro, in his blog, The Zapata Tales.

Of course, I thought of visiting. Naturally, the thought of what garments to pack for my fantasy trip came to mind. One item that would be a definite take-along: McCall 5760, copyright 1944. It has that Ilsa flair, does it not? It does. Absolutely. Emphatically. And I would look quite the 1940s film heroine if I accessorized with Granville Millinery's Power Play hat. But would would this catch the unwanted attention of the narcos? Mmmmm. I do not know. One must look to Mr. Zapata for that answer.

Shameless plug: How about a nice, juicy strawberry? October 1, 2009 15:27

So. I've taken some time from my busy life to add patterns. Just for you. And you. And you. Yes. And you. I did not forget you. I didn't. And here are a few of my favorites:

You're feeling prim yet sophisticated. Straitlaced yet sassy. Is there any more suitable dress for such a mood than Vogue Couturier 252 from the 1930s? I think not. Just look at those godets.

And for those chilly evenings this fall, when you want to look regal in the firelight as you ponder deep girly thoughts, choose Simplicity 3593, copyright 1951. Or you could stitch up the short house dress version and don it for Saturday morning chores. If you must. I won't be responsible for frightened dustbunnies. I won't.

And speaking of Saturday mornings and household tasks and all that, McCall's 2015 from 1955 is just the thing to wear as you whip the eggs and fry the bacon and squeeze the oranges. Because you do squeeze your own orange juice? Of course you do. I know it.

You like? I hope so. If not, scurry on over to The Blue Gardenia. You'll find something you like. I'm sure of it. And now for those pesky details, new additions always go at the beginning of each category. And we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal to make it easier for you. And, of course, checks, money orders and cold hard cash. Actually, we take warm soft cash, too. We are so agreeable.

When the wind blows free, let this protect you from fashion gusts July 27, 2009 13:27

Oh, sure. It's sweltering outside. At the moment. And the last thing, the very last thing you want to think about right now is a cape. Or any kind of coverup. Unless it has an SPF of 20 or more. But soon, the wind will blow brisk. And you will need protection. And is there anything better than this cape? The collar oozes attitude. So dashing, so sassy turned up just so. A perfect foil for your eyes. Absolutely.

Think how comfortable this cape will be. It's full. Roomy. No need to fret about pulling your dress sleeve down inside the coat sleeve. Egads. That can be so cumbersome. You know it.

Ahhh, yes. Vogue 8416, circa 1970s, fits the bill for winter fashion. It does. And it's very easy. Look. Right there on the envelope. Very easy, Vogue brags. And we know they wouldn't lie.

Shameless plug: Dunne. Tierney. Moreau. You decide. May 3, 2009 15:41

You deserve a treat. In fact, you deserve many. So. Just for you (and, for me, too, because I have a fondness for a roof over my head and food in my larder), it is update time at The Blue Gardenia. Nearly 70 fabulous, amazing vintage patterns have been added for your viewing and shopping pleasure. May I tempt you with a few choice morsels?

You have a wedding to attend. But there will be no silly, frilly chiffon froth for you. Nosiree. You're in an Irene Dunne mood. You want something different. Something sleek. Something sophisticated. Vogue Couturier Design 346, an exclusive design created in Paris more than 70 years ago, fits the bill. Unusual lines. A slim silhouette. And that blouse. What a blouse. On the other hand, perhaps it is a little mean, a little inconsiderate to wear such a beautiful suit to someone else's wedding. After all, no one will be looking at the bride. Because everyone will have their eyes tuned to you.

Butterick 3226, from the 1940s, is a stunner in the Gene Tierney mode. It is understated. Gorgeous. Striking. Absolutely. Eye-capturing button detail (May I suggest bound buttonholes in a contrasting color? Yes. Yes. Yes.) on the hip and collar. Soft gathers at the waist. Figure-caressing skirt to highlight your assets.

You will channel your inner Jeanne Moreau when you don Vogue Paris Original 1270, circa 1960s, courtesy of Lanvin. It is simple. It is classic. But. It has a twist. Look at the blouse scarf. It is not your ordinary scarf. With an ordinary bow. No. It is — dare I say it, dare I write it — unique. Really. Truly. It is. It references tradition and yet rebels against it. But in a whisper. Ever so quietly. In library tones.

So. There you go. A teaser, if you will, for this update. If these do not delight you, then check out the other additions. I know you will find something. I do. Absolutely. Really. Truly.

And, now, for the tedium. New additions always go at the beginning of each category. And we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal to make it easier for you. And, of course, checks, money orders and cold hard cash. Actually, we take warm soft cash, too. We are so agreeable.

Little Edie may not dance, but oh how swell she dresses! April 22, 2009 10:55 2 Comments

I could say I'm back. I'm here. I'm at the keyboard. But you are smart boys and girls. Very. So you know that.

So. I watched the HBO version of Grey Gardens. Admittedly, in bits and pieces. Here and there. But. I was impressed. I confess I was apprehensive. Why would anyone want to remake the Maysles' 1975 documentary version? I could not fathom. It was perfection. Not only that, it made me feel like, well, a rather superlative homemaker. Ready to star in a Swiffer commercial.

I love the clothes in the new fictionalized version. And you know that I can be quite the ferocious critic when it comes to period pieces. But Catherine Marie Thomas, credited with the costumes, has won the BG seal of approval. Indeedy.

My favorite gown is the cream satin number worn by beauteous Drew Barrymore, who plays Little Edie with ever so much respect and ever so little camp, at a gathering at Grey Gardens in 1937. The snooty hood and the sumptuous fabric make this gown for me. Absolutely. So lush. So sexy.

If you want to emulate this look — and I do — then may I suggest Vogue 5758? It's a 1940s rendition of the look. But oh how wow the drapey bodice would look in satin. Yes, ma'am.

Shameless plug: Oh, the choices. They boggle the mind. Really. March 29, 2009 12:34 2 Comments

Ahhhhh, girls and boys. I have wrested myself from the sofa and a Lifetime movie about obsession (don't ask me the name of it - I haven't a clue . . . but I'm sure it was very, very high-toned) to update The Blue Gardenia. Oh, the things I do to make you happy. The sweat. The toil. The sacrifice. Sniff. Sob. Hand me those Puffs, please. Yes, the soothing aloe ones.

Actually. Truth be told (and you know I am dedicated to veracity) I've been working on this update for two weeks. Or so. Selecting patterns. Counting the pieces. Placing them in archival sleeves. And His Bertness, the dear peachy one, has been scanning, coding, grumbling, etc.

But. At last. It is done. So, with no more ado, I bring to you highlights from the latest update:

If you're in a Kate Hepburn mood, you'll love Butterick 8025. These are the slacks of which icons are made. (Well, you might want to toss in a little talent. Or not. Your decision.)

And speaking of decisions. To bare those triceps or not? Yes. No. Yes. No. Yes. No. Oh, don't fret. Don't. There's no need. Because you can have it both ways in Vogue Special Design S-4887. The sleeves detach. Really. You can take them right off. Is that as cool as prewashed baby arugula or what?

And then there is Vogue Couturier Design 1297. An Irene Galitzene ensemble. A coat. A suit. Boardroom ready. Snooty restaurant ready. The very definition of chic, my dahlings. The very.

So. There you go. Check out these gorgeous sewing patterns and all the other stylish additions. Now. Right now. Don't tarry. After all, I worked so hard. His Bertness worked so hard. Just for you. Just for you - and the mortgage company, of course.

And, now, the details. You knew they were coming, didn't you? New additions always go at the beginning of each category. And we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal to make it easier for you. And, of course, checks, money orders, and cold hard cash. Actually, we take warm soft cash, too. We are so agreeable.

Shameless plug: Release your inner Grace Kelly. Now. February 25, 2009 12:27

It's been so long. It has. A Blue Gardenia update desert. But. At last. It's here. It is. And I hope you won't be disappointed. In fact. I know you won't be. Because I have some magnificent patterns. Just for you.

You'll find additions in 1920s, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s, 1960s and Lingerie this week. Many outstanding additions. Many. Two of my favorites:

For you Lanvin-Castillo fans, there's Vogue Paris Original 1267, copyright 1954. It is so very, very Grace. Rear Window elegant. Sexy and tantalizing, yet ladylike. He'll long to be risque when you wear this, but won't dare – unless you give him permission. And you will. Won't you?

McCall 9034, copyright 1936, channels Irene Dunne at her most fashionable. From its lantern sleeves to its face-framing collar and drapey jabot, it speaks of haute couture ateliers in 1930s Paris. Don't you love it? I do. Absolutely.

And now for the boring details: New additions always go at the beginning of each category because I want to make shopping fast and easy for you, you wonderful loyal clients. And we take Paypal, American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa and cold, hard cash. And The Blue Gardenia is a secure site, so you don't have to worry about ordering online. So there. You know it all now. Don't you?

Shameless plug: The slim silhouette or the frilly one? January 21, 2009 13:36 2 Comments

Forgive me. I was so overcome with excitement about the inauguration yesterday that I completely forgot to tell you about the update. I apologize. Profusely.

Yes, I added many amazing vintage patterns. I'll share pics and info about a few of them. But. Only a few, because I want you to visit The Blue Gardenia to see the rest. Don't let me down. Please. I look dreadful when my mascara runs. Really. I'm a sight.

From the early 1930s, Simplicity 1422 gently whispers "smart." (Can you hear it?) The tucks on the shoulders. The double row of buttons. The slim skirt with the graceful yet saucy inverted pleat. I see the blouse in ivory silk charmeuse — perhaps a 30 mummy - and the skirt in black wool crepe. (Yes, I can be quite the traditionalist. Quite. Surprised?)

Are you cooking more these days? You, frugalista, you. So am I. However. You may be pinching pennies. You may be scrambling your own eggs. But scrimp on style? No way. No how. In one word: Never! And that is where McCall's 2263 enters. It's stylish. It's sexy. It's from the fifties. And it includes three different patterns. How sensible is that? Yes. I see your accountant smiling. I do.

Oh. Oh. Oh. Oh, girlfriend. I am clutching my heart over McCall's 4257, copyright 1974. It's Stephen Burrows. So you know it's glamorous. You know it's comfortable. You know it's irresistible. You know it has his trademark lettuce edging. And you know why I am having palpitations.

And, now, the fine print. You knew it was coming, you smarty. New additions always go at the beginning of each category. And we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal to make it easier for you. And, of course, checks, money orders, and cold, hard cash.

Shameless plug: Only 31 hours left to enjoy our once-a-year sale! January 3, 2009 11:18

Butterick 6942, Circa 1930s

Schreiner Pink Rhinestone Brooch, Circa 1950s

You want to take advantage of The Blue Gardenia's once-a-year sale. I know you do. Frugalistas know that sewing patterns can be used again. And again. And again. This gorgeous pattern is like getting four — count 'em — four patterns in one: Sexy evening gown, smart day dress, sassy tunic and sleek coat. All high-style. All suitable for the glossy pages of Vogue. Each and every view.

And won't the coat look stunning with this lovely Schreiner New York rhinestone brooch? So collectible. So pink. So luscious. It'll knock them on their knees!

And, of course, savvy frugalistas know that The Blue Gardenia's after-Christmas sale comes but once a year. So hurry over, do, and take advantage of our sitewide sale. Treat yourself. You deserve it. I know you do. You know you do. Case settled.

The pesky details:

Buy three or more items, get 33% off! That's 33% off your total order. Sale ends Sunday, January 4, at midnight, Pacific Standard Time. On the dot. I mean it. I do. Payment must be received here, in my hands, no later than Friday at 4 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. And The Blue Gardenia happily accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Visa, Paypal, checks, money orders and cold, hard cash. I aim to please. I want to make it easy for you. Absolutely.

Shameless plug: Oh, be a frugalista, do. It's our once-a-year sale! December 26, 2008 13:09

Pictorial Review 8289, circa 1930s

Another shameless plug. Forgive me. Please. But the mortgage must be paid. The pups must have their treats. And His Bertness has a fondness for Haagen Dazs. Oh, the list, it is endless. Truly.

So. Take your seats. The curtain's rising. The drums are rolling. Etc.

I announce, without further ado, The Blue Gardenia's once-a-year sale. And it's a doozy. Really. Purchase any three items — patterns, jewelry, mix and match — and get 33 percent off. Yup. 33 percent. Is that fabulous or what? You can buy ten, twenty, thirty items, forty even, and you'll get 33 percent off the total price. And your purchase will come lovingly shipped, as always. The patterns carefully stored in archival wrap with backing boards, the jewelry in classy boxes. And you don't have to stand in line with the riff raff. No pushing. No shoving. No smelly armpits or aching, swollen feet. So. Pour yourself a cup of cocoa, complete with marshmallows, maybe some whipped cream, and drop by. You won't regret it. And you might be wearing a frock as lovely as this one in 2009. Isn't it pretty? Isn't it smart? I think so. I do. Look at that shoulder detail. Yum. Better than whipped cream. And no fat. No calories. Double yum.

And our home will be clutter free. Yes, indeedy. December 16, 2008 13:49 1 Comment

So. Today, I did something I haven't done in years. Years. I listed a few items on Ebay. Shoes, to be precise. Pretty shoes. Lovely shoes. Shoes that don't fit my small-town, work-at-home lifestyle. Luscious Louboutins. Fabulous Fendis. Staggering stilettos. Sexy slides. Etc. Anyway. Should you wear a size 7. Should you be in the mood to shop. Should you simply be curious or bored, then check out my auction listings. Today. Tonight. Tomorrow. My Ebay moniker is thebluegardenia.com. Help me clean out my closet. Help me unclutter. I beg you. After all, I've been so good. I've been so productive. I have. I deserve a bid. Or two. Or three or four or five. I do. I know Martha Stewart and Peter Walsh agree.

Shameless plug: Oh, but you're lovely. Especially in these frocks. December 5, 2008 10:32 1 Comment

Because I am passionate about patterns. Because you want something new and festive for New Year's Eve. Because Andrew the tile guy likes to be paid for his labor. Because Henry Jones and Emma like their treats. Because. I've added nearly 80 dazzling vintage patterns to The Blue Gardenia.

And, boys and girls, I do not exaggerate. I do not overstate. These patterns are ravishing. And when I say ravishing, I mean ravishing. Absolutely. So. I'll share a few — just a few – of my favorites with you.

Starting with the 1930s, Simplicity 1708. This one offers not one, but two terrific views. If you're feeling unfailingly feminine and frilly, try the version with ruffles that cascade both front and back. If you want something that's stern yet stylish, something that has a whiff of businesslike briskness for the office, the other view more than fits the bill.

On to the 1940s. If you're in the mood to release your inner glamour puss, I recommend Butterick 3789. Slide on your above-the-elbow gloves — don't they feel good - and glide, glide, glide, girl, glide across the room to the piano. Play The Way You Look Tonight. Purr the words in your sultry voice. Meow. You kitten you.

Now, slip into your traveling shoes and let's saunter to the 1960s. Pile your silky tresses atop your gorgeous noggin — ouch! Don't cross those bobby pins — and slip into Vogue Paris Original 1333. Designed by Jacques Heim, it is perfect for channeling Suzy Parker in a Grecian goddess mode. Yep. That's one sexy, sophisticated minx looking back at you in the mirror. Yes indeed.

There are so many more marvelous patterns! You'll also find new in Children, Men, Lingerie and 1950s. And, as always, new additions go at the beginning of each category to make it easier for our loyal customers (I thank you, I do). And remember, we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal to make it easier for you.

Now. Click. Shop. Enjoy. You've been good. You deserve it. Santa told me so.

Shameless plug: We've got style if you want it. And you do. November 20, 2008 09:10

Are you in the mood to sew? Are you in the mood to look stunning?

Are you in the mood to wear an ensemble no one else has? Well. You are in luck. Because why, you ask with breathless anticipation and perhaps a wee, tiny bit of skepticism. Because. The Blue Gardenia has just added patterns! Yep. It's true. And not just any pattern. Not any of those dull suburban hausfrau rags. No. Outstanding patterns. Stupendous patterns. Patterns deserving of the highest superlatives. Perfect for the party season patterns. Perfect for the cold weather patterns. A few of my favorites:

1930s

Wanna channel Myrna Loy? Then do not miss - I repeat: Do not miss the Simplicity coats. Yep, that's right. Not one, but two Simplicity coats that are smart enough for Nora Charles. Two. I'm so excited.

Sleek and sexy and drapey evening gowns. Several. Just imagine: You're a chanteuse. Leaning against a piano. Gazing coolly at him. And him. And him. You stun. You amaze. You ensnare. You are it, babe. It.

1950s

A Vogue Couturier that is the cat's. Totally. Completely. This is what Betty Draper should be wearing when she goes to the city. Not those boring suits that give tweed a bad name. Not those drab house-wifey numbers with the can-cans out to there. She is a former fashion model. After all. She looks like Grace Kelly. After all. Didn't she see Rear Window? Didn't she?

Lingerie

1930s bed jacket - just in case you plan to lounge in bed while he fries your eggs. Let's hope he doesn't burn them in his haste to get back to your bedroom.

Aprons

1940s McCall that is so feminine. It's got flowers and bows. Flowers and bows. Oh my. Is that too much? Is that over the top? Nah. I think not. It is an apron. It can be frilly. It can be saccharine. Sickeningly so. If that's what you want.

You'll also find new in 1920s, 1960s and Children. Yes. His Bertness and I have been working oh-so-hard.

So. Rush right on over. Shop, shop, shop. Then shop some more. And if you're feeling frugal, remember, you can reuse a pattern. They are so economical in the long run. Really. Truly. I would not steer you astray. I wouldn't. Because I'm your fan.

Forgive me, forgive me, for I have sinned. (And so has he. Lout.) September 27, 2008 17:36 3 Comments

Dear, dear Blue Gardenia customers, I have been woefully slow in shipping the last 10 days. I have been completely caught up in the work being done in the house. Feeling displaced. Out of sorts. Etc. That is not an excuse. It’s an explanation. Really. I am sorry. Completely. Absolutely. Abundantly.

But. I have spent the day catching up on Blue Gardenia shipping, so if you have been holding your breath for your order to arrive, you’ll be able to release it soon. Those of you who have been victims of my tardy shipping have gotten a complimentary upgrade to Priority shipping. And I beg you, on my knees, tears flowing: Please. Forgive me. I apologize. Sincerely.

On another topic, I have been pissed — excuse my language, please, darling readers — with His Bertness today. If you were looking toward Arizona, doubtless you saw clouds. You thought they were clouds. But. I am here to tell you, those were not clouds, my friends, those were great bursts of steam coming out of my ears. Out of my nostrils.

Recently, when we were moving things downstairs for the carpet installation, my beloved hubby removed files from a file cabinet drawer. When he replaced them, he did so carelessly. Absentmindedly. In a most willy-nilly fashion. There were files facing backward. There were files facing forward. And, natch, they were no longer in alphabetical order. Can you say asshole? I can. And I probably did today. And not just under my breath. I hate to file, you see. I do. Absolutely. But I do it anyway, because I have learned it makes life easier. (Oh, woe is me, little Wednesday's child.)

So. I discovered his transgression when I tried to file some recipes today. Oh oh oh oh oh. I was beyond angry. There was even — gasp! — slamming of doors. So unlike me. I am Obama cool. Normally. Truly. I am. But today, I wanted to scream "I hate you I hate you I hate you." I wanted to stamp my feet. I wanted to clench my fists. I wanted to yell. Asshole. Asshole. Asshole.

Now. All of you probably have perfect husbands, wives, girlfriends, boyfriends. Husbands, wives, girlfriends, boyfriends who would not think of replacing files in less than pristine fashion, neatly organized, better than before. Alas, that is not the case in my household. Yes, His Bertness is handsome. Yes, His Bertness is smart. But. Could he just respect the hours I spent filing? Is that too much too ask? Is it? Is it? Is it? I think not.

I feel devalued, she sobbed. Unappreciated. Invisible. Sniff, sniff. Sniff. Where are my Puffs? I want them. I need them. I am off to find them.

Shameless plug: I'm for sleek. I'm for slim. Tonight. September 24, 2008 19:26

It’s true: I have taken time this week from The Bathroom Drama — forgive me, I've forgotten what part - to add patterns to The Blue Gardenia. After all, I like to eat. Groceries are rather wonderful. Don’t you agree?

So. Without further ado, some of my favorites. (And I know you’ll notice that I am in the mood for a slim silhouette – at least for this particular moment. I'm fickle, so that could change tomorrow. Or even sooner.)

Advance 8616, circa 1950s, boasts a button-on bolero. And it has a collar that makes a statement. Does sleek get any smarter? Does slim get any sexier? I think not. On both counts. And. Imagine all those surreptitious glances when you begin to unbutton your top – in public. Won’t that be fun? Won't that be shocking? Absolutely. Yes indeedy.

Vogue Special Design 6100 is so very Jeanne Moreau. Very 1960s elegant. Very 1960s cool. Very very very. Put your hair up in a French twist or chignon, add a brooch the size of a saucer, don your gloves, and you are ready for dinner with your favorite suave heartthrob. More than ready.

And, of course, there are many more ever so stylish patterns just added. Always located at the beginning of each category. In fact, you will find new additions in Accessories, 1930s, 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. Wow. That's a mouthful!

And the site is secure. You don’t have to fax your charge info now. So simple. So easy. Life’s a dream.

Isn’t it?

Shameless (and short!) plug: You asked for it. You got it. At last. September 20, 2008 17:04

Down. Dirty. All business. The Blue Gardenia is now secure. Yes, it's true. You no longer have to fax or mail your CC orders to us. You may do it online. Isn't that fabulous? I think so. And I know you do, too. But, of course, I don't mind if you prove it. Just click here: The Blue Gardenia.

Shameless plug: Looks that will take you to the moon. And back. August 27, 2008 16:46

Simplicity 1771, circa 1930s

It’s that time again. Actually, it’s way past that time. Way past. A million miles past. All right. I admit it: I’m embroidering a bit. Again. I’m a sucker for hyperbole. I know. You'd never have guessed. It’s more like a hundred. Maybe 500 miles past that time. Maybe a thousand. Maybe.
What time, you ask, with excitement and anticipation? Time to update, time to add marvelous patterns, patterns that beg to be in your collection. Styles that will make you feel good. Styles that will make you look good. Beyond good. Naturally. Would I put any other kind of pattern in The Blue Gardenia?
A few of my favorites:
Simplicity 1764 is a 1930s interpretation of the peasant look. I love this look. Love it. I do. It’s comfy. It’s carefree. Can you ask for more?
McCall 6192 is one of my all-time favorite lounging looks. Absolutely. Wide-shouldered. Strong. Very film noir goddess by the fire. I’m independent, I’m my own woman, I don’t care what you think. That look. You know it. You want it. You can’t live without it. Can you?
Simplicity 1771 is one of those dreamy, elegant Irene Dunne looks. Fabulous sleeves. Fabulous, monumental sleeves you could use to smuggle your puppy. Unusual, haute couture pleats on the shoulders. This will get your motor running. And his.
So. Enjoy. I did.
And here’s the fine print: New additions always go at the beginning of each category, to make it easier for you, our loyal clientele (and our future loyal clientele). And, of course, you know that The Blue Gardenia takes American Express, Discover, Mastercard, Paypal, Visa and checks (yes, I know that’s rare these days, but I have a retro attitude, so there). Stop by. http://thebluegardenia.com/ Browse. Spend lots of money. Make me happy.

Shameless plug: The patterns we've added, the places they'll go July 23, 2008 19:07

You like to sew. I know you do. Don’t hide it. And. And. I know I’ll like to sew eventually, too. I know I will. And what do you need to sew? At least, what do most of us need to sew? What do most of us Crave, Capital C? Outstanding patterns! I’ve just added many — I didn’t note how many, so no pop quizzes, please — but trust me, there are lots of brand-spankin’ new vintage pattern additions. A few of my favorites:

Dancing veggie apron, courtesy of those crazy 1940s McCall designers. This one is beyond cute, and it has mitts and towels, too! How’s that for stretching out your pattern dollars? And it has dancing veggies! Dancing veggies! Can you say witty? This apron can. Loudly.

1930s Du Barry evening gown or day dress that has a bias skirt — and you know how sexy they are, you know they are totally irresistible, totally — and it has those puffy short sleeves that are all the rage and — you knew I wasn’t going to stop there, didn’t you? — it has simple, yet different seaming details, the kind that make the frock really pop, pop, pop. It also has a bow belt, which I, frankly, would ditch, but, hey, bows aren’t my thing. Some people — like my ex-sister-in-law — love ‘em. She had more bows than there are blades of grass on a golf course. Probably still does. Not that there is anything wrong with that. Not a thing.

And there is a sexy Helen Rose suit with an hourglass shape. Form-fitting. Feminine. Don’t-mess-with-me powerful. Not a bow in sight. 1950s, natch. It’s gorgeous. It’s smart. It’s collectible. Can you live another day without it? I think not.

There are three Carol Horns, all special in that special Carol Horn way. Comfy. Edgy. Modern. There are three YSLs as well. I love Yves. Really. I do. If you want to go haute, if you want to go couture, you cannot go wrong with his fashion. Look at style goddess Catherine Deneuve. Yes. Indeed.

You’ll also find additions in Lingerie, Accessories and the 1920s section. And, as you know, new additions go at the beginning of each category, because our regulars find that makes it so much easier. And if you aren’t a BG regular, well, I want you to be one. You’ll be happy you are. We do take Paypal now for those of you who find that is the way to go.

Drop by and let those shopping demons hop, hop, hop! You deserve it. I know you do.

Shameless plug: TBG adds sensationally fab patterns June 26, 2008 16:53 1 Comment

Marian Martin 9208, circa 1940s

It's too hot to leave the house to shop. I'm sweating — not glowing, sweating! — just thinking about it. The masses at the mall. The heat. The traffic. The gas! So let your fingers do the walking to The Blue Gardenia.
We've just added lots of outstanding patterns, and you won't have to leave your cool house. A few tidbits to tease you into stopping by and shopping:

A slinky Harlow-esque Butterick evening gown pattern with many variations. More bang for the buck.

A smart Butterick day dress that's unusual and will weather the heat well, when you absolutely have to go out.

Sassy, tapered 1950s slacks with sophisticated and sleek overblouse or blouse. So very, very Doris.

And a designer extravaganza awaits in the 1960s category: Belinda Bellville. Dior. YSL. Cardin. And so on. And so on.

There’s a Vogue negligee with a sash to accentuate your curves. So sleek. So sexy. Perfect to take off late in the evening. Or to slip on in the morning to scramble up some eggs.

Totally neat. Totally unusual accessory pattern: Belt pockets from 1940. Love this one! Love it!

And there is so much more! Don’t miss this exciting update. New patterns always go at the beginning of each category to make it easier for our regular customers. And speaking of you all, thank you! Thank you!

And remember, we take Mastercard, Visa, Discover and Amex, as well as Paypal to make it easier for you.

And back to the regular programming . . .

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