This is a classic piece of Make Do and Mend.
Made in the 1940s, this home sewn piece has been made from a lightweight cotton in chocolate brown with a floral design in cream and orange and it fastens with 4 novelty bell shaped buttons.
Whoever made it must have been short on big pieces of fabric because the sleeves are pieced and some of the sections are a darker brown than others. It came to me as part of a set with a dress to match, but the dress was terribly faded and not saveable so the smock is being sold alone. It is perfect for a 1940s re-enactor or true vintage lover who doesn’t mind the quirks. A seamstress could easily make it into a blouse by cutting off some of the length.
Measurements
Flat bust 20”
Shoulders between sleeves 15”
Length 32”
Underarm sleeve length 12”
Condition
Good with points to note;
- some slight colour variation between some fabric sections
- 7 small holes on the right bodice
- buttons are a little worn