Vintage sewing, rescue dogs, and 1940s reenactments: getting to know blogger Rochelle from Lucky Lucille

In my experience, whereas in the offline world one is routinely introduced directly to someone new by a person they already know, this happens far less online. I'm not talking about discovering another blogger via a post on the site of a person you follow, I mean having someone specifically go out of their way to tell you, "Hey, I think you'd like so-so and because...", or, "Have you meet Ms. Blogger, I think you two would hit it off splendidly", or something to that extent.

Last winter, in her wonderfully nice comment on my post about becoming a wig wearer, Tasha of By Gum, By Golly personally recommended that, if I didn't know her already, I visit the blog of a fellow full time wig wearing, vintage adoring gal by the name of Rochelle.

Being a total wig newbie at the time, and only one of an exceedingly small number in the vintage community that I'm aware, of I was deeply touched by Tasha's suggestion and made an immediate beeline over to Rochelle's beautiful blog, Lucky Lucille. Here, not only did I discover a fellow wig wearer, but a kindred spirit with whom I shared a great many interests and similarities, from adoring the 1940s to being a pet (but not human) mama, crafting to a passion for yesteryear catalogs.

In the months since then, I've had the great pleasure of following Rochelle's blog and in turn having the honour of her following mine. We've chatted about wigs, for sure, but also many other things and it was with no small amount of joy that I welcomed her last and her blog, Lucky Lucille, as one of Chronically Vintage's new sponsors in July.

This month I interviewed Rochelle, chatting about everything from WW2 reenactment events to rescue dogs, and today I am thoroughly delighted to bring you that very interview. I hope you'll enjoy learning more about this inspiring, awesomely talented woman and her fantastic blog as much as I did.


Your blog and your sewing both embody such a tremendously lovely sense of the hardworking resourcefulness and creativity that so helped to define 1940s, what are some other things that you feel define you and your wonderful website?

One of the best compliments I ever got was about my honest and humble writing style. I'd like to think people keep coming back to my blog because they enjoy what I have to say, as well as what I'm wearing. Oh, and of course, Lucille has a fan club all her own!




What came first: your passion for vintage or your love of sewing? (Or did they spring to life around the same time?)

Well they are two passions that I kept entirely separate for a very long time. I didn't mean to, I just didn't really realize I could essential sew my own vintage until recently! (It's so nice to have a 1940's dress that I can throw in the washing machine!) I grew up in a home with a sewing machine, a plethora of black and white movies, and a Bing Crosby Christmas album playing every December, so those paths were bound to merge at some point in my life!


Are there some things you wish you’d known when you started sewing when you started out that you know now?

I wish I had a better understanding of what makes a garment fit well, and how to implement those changes for a more successful sewing project. I have SO many dresses sitting in my closet that I love as a project, but do not love as a wearable item. You live and learn!


What are some of your favourite fabrics to sew with?

Hands down it's cotton, cotton, cotton! Any kind of cotton. It's practically all I use and I'm not ashamed of that. It's such a versatile fabric and I'm convinced there's a type of cotton out there for any sewing project you could imagine. In fact, a friend and I are hosting a vintage cotton only sewalong right now.





To date, what are three of your favourite items of clothing (or accessories) that you’ve sewn or knit for your wardrobe?

Definitely my WWII era Marian Martin dress - that will always be one of my favorite dresses. I also love my self drafted swing skirt, and a pair of 40's trousers that I sadly broke the zipper on and have yet to replace. I should really get on that because I wore those pants all the time!





What would be your dream project (vintage or otherwise) to sew or knit for yourself?

Oh goodness, if I had an ounce of talent at knitting I would definitely knit a heavy duty 1940's "boyfriend" sweater, or some kind of color work project with cute animals. My dream sewing project would involve my own line of sewing patterns. ...I'm working towards that actually ;)

{Image source: Sears and Roebuck catalog, fall 1942}

Aside from sewing, knitting and blogging, what are some of your other creative pursuits and hobbies?

Well I'm a big nerd so I enjoy reading epic fantasy novels, watching period piece films, and bowling hehe! I also really love snowboarding (it cured my seasonal depression!). I've also started digitizing some of my 1940s periodicals and making them available as downloads. Some of these magazines are just too good not to share! I'm working on restoring the "War-time Manual For Housewives" now.


Your personal fashion style is so understatedly, classically beautiful and evocative of a patriotic 1940s gal, what are some of your key wardrobe musts for those looking to take your sartorial lead?

Definitely a classic 1940's shirt dress! That's a piece that is truly timeless and translates very well from vintage to modern. I don't think shirt dresses will ever, ever go out of style.





Lucille, your immensely cute rescue dog, is a key player on your blog (and of course in your life). Do you find that she influence your style and/or what you blog about?

She certainly influences me in the sense that I live by her example. Before I rescued her she lived a very sad, hard, life but you'd never know it by her attitude now. She doesn't hold a grudge against humanity when she has every right to. She LOVES people and is generally an extremely sweet, happy-go-lucky pup. Her breed also faces a fair amount of adversity but she doesn't know that. She is what she is, and I am what I am, and we're happy as such. Dogs just take life one day at a time, and always stop to smell the flowers :) We can all learn something from that attitude.


You and I both share a passion for adopting rescuing animals and the importance no-kill shelters. What are some things that you wish more people knew about shelter animals and why it’s so important to consider adopting an animal from a shelter when looking to add a new pet to one’s family?

Oh boy, I could talk all day on this subject! I went to school for Vet Tech and also worked in a shelter, so this is a subject very dear to me. A lot of people think people give up their pets because there is something "wrong" with them. But the truth is, many people give up house pets who are well loved and well trained simply because their situations change and they no longer have the means to care for them. The majority of shelter animals are not bad pets. They just got dealt some bad cards.

You should go into a shelter with an open mind and talk with the staff about the right type of pet for you. I swore up and down that I was going to rescue a male greyhound, but walked out with a little white and brindle pit bull instead. She's the dog who won me over, she's the perfect dog for me, and now I can't imagine my life without Lucille. In her case, ending up in the shelter was the best thing that ever happened to her.

When you rescue a pet, you save two lives: The life of the pet you adopted, and the life of the pet who got to take its place at the shelter. Also, when you pay adoption fees, you help save more lives by supporting the shelter and allowing them to purchase vaccines and other resources for the animals still waiting for their forever homes. There is a fine line between rescuing and hoarding though, and with 5 misfit cats and one dog (a low count of pets for me!) I'm cutting it close haha! You can't save them all, but you can definitely make a difference.




You’re a fan of 1940s reenactment events (awesome!), what are some of your tips for those who are looking to get into this fun activity for the first time?

Start going to events dressed in period clothing to get a feel for what it's like, then try to join a reenacting group! It's always more fun when you can make new friends when starting a new hobby, and joining a group gives you the perfect opportunity to do that. Not to mention, a group leader can offer you guidance when putting together your impression (which is sort of like a character). Keep in mind that not all reenacting impressions are military.

I joined a group called The Paper Dolls and we do home front impressions specifically (think Rosie the Riveter and the Women's Land Army!). Do as much research as you can, and do your best to be authentic. Reenactors honor veterans and civilians by representing them as accurately as possible. It can very disrespectful to show up at an event and not represent the time period correctly.






You’re transported back in time to 1940s for an hour with a hundred dollars (in 40s money) in hand to spend however you like. Quick! What do you buy?

Well considering there was rationing going on during the war, and you might not be able to buy whatever you wanted even if you could, I'd still try to order pretty much one of everything from the women's section of Sears and Roebuck!

{Image source: Sears and Roebuck catalog, spring 1942}

Five words that you feel describe your life right now would be?

Great new things to come :)


Thank you very much for this marvelous interview, sweet gal. I adored getting to know you ever better, as I’m sure my readers did, too.


Rochelle and Lucille can also be found across the web on the following sites:

Facebook

Flickr

Google+

Instagram

Pinterest

Twitter

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I will always be grateful to Tasha for introducing me to Rochelle, and in turn to Rochelle for helping to answer some of my wig related questions during those early days of life sans my real hair, as well as for each and every email, blog comment, and lovely social media interaction we've shared since. Wigs may have brought us together, but a great many other things have helped form a shared point into a meaningful friendship.

Believe me when I say, you are bound to adore her Rochelle's fantastic blog. It is chalked full of awesome how-tos and patterns, finished sewing and knitting projects, old school images, endlessly adorable photographs of Lucille, and myriad other things, amongst which, we can all find something in common with this creative, beautiful vintage loving lady.

Forty fantastic 1940s sewing patterns under $40

Unlike many in our circle, I am not much of a sewer. I know the basics and have - many years ago - made a few simple projects, but sewing is not a talent that the universe blessed me with in any capacity. Of course, like most skills, I'm sure I could improve with (scads more) experience, perhaps a good teacher, and plenty of trial and error, but given that I find sewing to be fairly challenging on me from a physical standpoint, this isn't something I've pursed in recent years. Perhaps one day - goodness knows I'd love to be able to knock out some fantastic garments made with vintage patterns - but for the time being, I content to admire the marvelous sewing projects of others.

Another thing that I greatly enjoy admiring - and even occasionally purchasing myself - is vintage sewing patterns. I love, love, love (!) yesteryear sewing patterns. The art that adorns the pattern sleeves and the sartorial inspiration the fashions pictured there provides has endeared vintage sewing patterns to my heart ever since I was a child.

About a month ago, the immensely lovely and completed talented Rochelle of the blog Lucky Lucille announced that she was holding a 1940s sewalong that was open to participants from anywhere in the world. To take part in this delightful sewalong, all one has to do is a create a garment (anytime between February 4th – March 31st, ideally submitting photos of your finished project to Rochelle by March 29th so that she can include them in a post about the completed projects) using any 1940s, 1940s reproduction, or 1940s appropriate sewing pattern that you'd like.





It's easy as pie to participate and sounds like oodles of fun! Believe me, if I was a sewer, I'd be on this delightful sewalong like thread on a bobbin. Again though, as sewing is not my strong suit, I thought that one way I could join in the general spirit of this project would be to share some seriously stylish 1940s sewing patterns with you that have caught my eye recently on etsy.

I started saving these links last month, so it's possible that some of these patterns may have sold already, but quite a few should still be available and those that had sold, may possibly be available elsewhere (online or off) as well. As the theme of Rochelle's wonderful sewalong is the 1940s, it struck me that forty assorted vintage patterns from the forties would be a great number to include in this post today.

Like nearly all vintage items, mid-century sewing patterns have, by and large, shot up (sometimes rather dramatically) in price over the past few years. However, as you all know, I love a bargain or at least a relatively well priced item, so to keep the theme of the number forty going even further, each one of the patterns featured here today comes complete with a price tag that will run you (before shipping) less than $40.00 US.




{So very, timelessly elegant and becoming for women of all ages. Simplicity 1324. $38.00 from Historically Patterns.}



{Two times the vintage apron cuteness! Hollywood Patterns 1834. $25.00 from Fancy Lucky Couturier.}



{Three charming peasant style inspired warm weather top ideas. Simplicity 2034. $5.00 from Gift To The World.}



{Jumping seasons from the last pattern, here's a fabulous, classic winter swing coat in three appealing lengths. Advance 4916. $35.00 from Independence Vintage.}




{Belted 1940s daywear dress loveliness in a bigger size for those gorgeous curvy ladies out there. 4593 Simplicity. $28.00 from Molly Pop Vintage.}



{These cute-as-a-button culotte and vest ensembles would be absolutely perfect for the start of spring. Simplicity 4370. $20.00 from Lisaanne 1960.}



{Whether you opt for short or long sleeves, this 1940s drop-waist dress is a perpetual classic. Du Barry 5463. $15.00 from Fripperie.}



{Breezy bowed necklines and short sleeves make these two forties frocks perfect for the sizzling summer months ahead. Simplicity 1016. $9.95 from Atomic Regeneration.}




{Puff sleeves and full skirts add lashings of feminine loveliness to these two subtly peasant inspired dress styles. New York Gold Seal Patterns 1397. $21.00 from Cottage Lane Treasures.}



{Summer's still a little ways off, so why not whip up one of these sophisticated, boxy 1940s coats to help keep those early springtime breezes at bay? Simplicity 1531. $8.00 from Dandelion Vintage.}




{Few vintage garments make my heart more giddy than darling 1940s pinafore dresses like these. Simplicity 3664. $25.00 from Miss Betty's Attic.}




{Perfect for the vintage loving office worker or anyone looking to add some classic mid-century blouses to their wardrobe. McCall 4800. $10.00 from Cherry Bubble's Vintage.}



{Actress Betty Rhodes gave this delightful three-piece blouse, bolero and skirt ensemble pattern her nod of approval. Hollywood 1211. $18.00 from Sew Patterns.}



{Curve hugging, a-line skirt loveliness that just begs to be worn all spring long. Vogue 8957. $20.00 from Old Fashioned Notions.}



{It's never too soon to start thinking about your next bathing suit, especially if it's as cute as these forties options are. New York 906. $34.00 from Dear Dress Maker.}



{The kind of classic vintage shirtwaist dress that you can dress up or down to your heart's content. Du Barry 5581. $10.00 from Sew Patterns.}


{Exude yesteryear glamour in a chic, cozy 1940s cape. Vogue 7891. $14.99 from Faithful Fabrics.}



{For the mama-to-be, two wonderful 1940s maternity dress options. Butterick 1985. $23.00 from One More Cup of Tea.}




{This lovely skirt suit pattern teeters on the end of the 40s/start of the 50s, and could be styled to work for either time frame. $7.50 from Karen Elmquist Vintage.}



{Two sweet-as-cherry-pie short sleeve dress styles featuring cute front pockets and rickrack trim. Simplicity 4102. $25.00 from Fancy Lucky Couturier.}



{Much as I adore all of the patterns in today's post, it was this lovely skirt pattern that I was most tempted to buy for myself because it seemed like the kind of thing that a total novice sewer like myself might be able to tackle. Simplicity 4824. $8.99 from The Craft Barrel.}



{Radiate old school Hollywood glamour in one of these beguiling 1940s evening/dressing/hostess gowns. Butterick 2354. $22.00 from Sock Fiends.}



{Be ready for a myriad of daytime events - from baby showers to PTA meetings - in one of these beautiful 1940s skirt suit styles. Hollywood 682. $14.00 from Midvale Cottage.}



{A collared v-neck and generous sized pockets add extra interest to these wonderful apron/pinafore jumpers. Advance 3427. $24.00 from Color Me Vintage.}



{Protect your clothes in lovely 1940s style with one of these classic, artist or crafter perfect vintage smocks. Simplicity 2436. $22.00 from Miss Betty's Attic.}



{If you share my love of vintage ruffles, than these 1940s housecoats style dresses are sure to tickle your fancy as well. Hollywood 1240. $12.00 from Daisy Epoch Vintage.}



{One can never have to many pretty blouses in their wardrobe, especially when they're as appealing as the four featured in this great 1940s pattern. Simplicity 4750. $22.00 from Miss Betty's Attic.}



{Whether you're in the mood for slacks or peddle pushers, this great pair of forties pants is sure provide just what you're after. Advance 3983. $16.00 from Midvale Cottage.}



{Well tailored lines and a waist defining belt help give extra elegance to this beautiful pair of 40s skirt suits. Simplicity 3923. $25.00 from Swing Kitten.}



{There are few figure types this pair of lovely flattering square neck, a-line skirt dresses would look terrific on. Simplicity 3423. $30.00 from Miss Betty's Attic.}



{Three lovely just-below-the-knee skirts to see you through spring, summer and fall with ease. Simplicity 1575. $14.00 from Quilt City Sue.}



{Stay cozy and stylish in these terrific 1940s pajamas and robes. Simplicity 2999. $10.39 from Mrs. Depew Vintage.}




{Whether you're hitting the links or grabbing a quick happy hour cocktail, these crisply tailored 1940s jackets are sure to land you a hole-in-one on the fashion front. McCall 4231. $12.50 from Studio G Patterns.}



{For those looking to tackle evening wear for their 1940s sewalong project, may I present this gorgeous pair of square-neck vintage gowns. Simplicity 4065. $35.00 from Miss Betty's Attic.}




{Perfect for everything from camping trips to leisurely Sunday walks, these classic straight legged trousers from 1947 will see you through scores of different events and weather conditions. McCall 6794. $10.00 from I love Vintage Stuff.}



{Princess lines and cute details like a lace collar or double breasted buttons add extra appeal to these marvelous 1940s frocks. Simplicity 3514. $14.00 from Selvedge Shop.}



{Have a (beach) ball in these seriously fun vintage summer playsuits. Simplicity 4321. $19.00 from Fancy Work.}



{Those - like myself - who enjoy longer hemlines on their vintage daywear dresses are sure to fancy both of these elegant dresses. Advance 5004. $9.50 from Studio G Patterns.}



{If you're a fan of whipping up your own hats and handbags, than this sophisticated pattern is sure to catch your eye. Vogue 9650 $27.50 from Atomic Regeneration.}



{I audibly gasped aloud when I saw this stellar 1940s dress and matching accessories sewing pattern. What took my breath away, you may ask - why, none other than the fact that you can tuck the tails of your headkerchief right through the collar on the dress on the left. Adore! Simplicity 3350. $30.00 from Miss Betty's Attic.}

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Whether you're a sewer or not, I really hope these marvelous 1940s sewing patterns help inspire you throughout this spring and well beyond. I know they'll certainly be fueling my wardrobe fires for a long, long time to come.

Do you have a favourite (or ten!) from amongst these mid-century pattern offerings? Every last one of them makes me go weak in the knees, so try as I may, I don't think I can narrow my selection down to just one.

If you haven't checked out Rochelle's 1940s sewalong yet, I highly encourage you to do so. There's a nearly a month left to complete a project, if you're interested, and even if you won't be sewing along yourself, it will still be a total joy to see the creations that others will be submitting.

Happy sewing and 1940s pattern admiring, my sweet dears!