Vintage Pattern Review: Simplicity 3963 from the 1950s

Someone gave me this 50s sewing pattern, and I simply fell it love it with.
First of all, I LOVE old patterns. LOVE! The only era I'm not to fond of is the 80s. However, I can still find style there that can be redeemed by taking of the shoulder pads, or using beautiful fabric.

I would look this particular pattern from time to time, falling in love with the neckline, the styling, the cute drawings....each time! I knew I just had to make it. Besides, it looked as though it was simple enough for me to attempt.




Last week, I found a beautiful vintage table cloth. When I picked it up, I thought, "Awesome! This will make a perfect flirty summer skirt". When I got home and pulled the table cloth out of my tote, my plans came to a screeching halt. What alternative universe am I living on? A white skirt? Am I nuts? Am I a mother of two young kids, or am I a mother of two young kids?

So, because I am so not nuts, I decide to make a white blouse instead. Yeah, I know, I never claimed to be smart.

Pattern: 1950s Simplicity 3963 Teen, pattern 2 - the flowery one in the picture
Fabric: White lacy cotton from vintage tablecloth


Here's how it turned out. It was pretty simple to make, as you may have suspected. I had to make alterations to reduce the bust size of the top. (Once again, that whole no curves, thick-waisted issue)

The instructions were not as clear as I would like. There were some leap of faith, and I had to do some sleuthing to figure out what steps I had missed. Even though it looked like a beginner's project, I know now that you would have to have had some sewing experience to plow through the project.




The top is not very long, so I will definitely not be wearing drop-waist pants with this. You may want to make it a little longer if you are tall, or have a long torso.

I made my life a little easier by using a ribbon in place of the suggested strip of cloth that had to be turned. I really dislike turning thin strips of cloths - such a hassle. I know there are tools out there to make it easier. Any suggestions?

I still did not sew a trial run, but I was careful to mark every dart and clip every notch this time. I know! An improvement! Definitely not like the last time.

I would recommend this pattern; I loved how the top turned out. The next time, I will try out the other styles.

Can't wait til the weather's warmer, so that I can wear this baby out!!