Misses 8-16.

The introduction of "the horseless carriage" into American life at the dawn of the 20th century presented ladies with a dilemma in dressing: how to protect their fancy, feminine apparel from the dust and grime of motoring in a open automobile? The smart and sensible solution was a loose-fitting unlined coat called, fittingly, a "duster".

Our original duster possesses a silhouette so simple, yet so subtly fitted, that it can take its place in any contemporary wardrobe. Our sewing pattern features flared princess seams, double-breasted front, and classic notched collar and lapels which lend a traditionally tailored fit and look. Curved two-piece sleeves with shaped cuffs add a vintage touch. Generous patch pockets have shaped flaps.

View A is a contemporary street length, low-calf length on a 5'6 tall person. View B falls to the ankle and preserves the two deep back seam pleats of the original.

Your duster can run the gamut from sportswear to evening wear, depending on your choice of fabric, be it rugged denim, fine linen, or gabardine. Try it in water-repellent fabric for a terrific raincoat.

Suggested fabrics: Heavyweight cotton or blends, such as poplin, corduroy, or denim; suit-weight linen; wool gabardine or blends; water-repellent fabrics.

href=" target="_blank">Yardage chart (.pdf)

This is the paper pattern, for the href=" target="_blank">PDF pattern, go here.

LEARN MORE:

• href=" target="_blank">Buttonholes 101, buttonhole basics: Part 1
• href=" target="_blank">Buttonholes 101: Part 2
• href=" target="_blank">How to make flat-felled seams