Description
From the Folder Back
“Cocktails and laughter, but what comes after?”, Noel Coward once asked in song. Whatever it was, the gentleman (and a daring lady or two) were probably doing it in a smoking jacket. Folkwear’s original Le Smoking dates distinctively from the thirties; the Art Deco fabric is a madcap jacquard print, with satin lapels. Today the elegant garment is seeing a revival in women’s fashion. This stylish jacket worn by the high society of the late twenties and thirties, has its origins in the late 19th century. In England where house parties were the rule, one always had to be properly dressed. After the ladies retired, the gentlemen went into the billiard or smoking room for a brandy and a good cigar. Because they did not want to ruin their finely tailored dress coats, the smoking jacket was born. It allowed men to be comfortable and still well-dressed. There is almost no change in the construction techniques between Folkwear’s original thirties’ version and the 19th century jackets. The shoulder seams are set toward the back; the two piece sleeves, and the angled pockets are examples of how little had changed in men’s tailoring. Folkwear offers two versions of Le Smoking, both sized for men and women. One has a softly quilted lapel and cuffs, accomplished with a simple technique that does not require extra quilting materials. The other offers a standard contrasting lapel, cuffs, sash and pocket bands. Also, included are knitting instructions for a slinky tank top, sized for women. Knit in a stockinette stitch, it has thin straps and a scoop neck. It is ideal underneath Le Smoking!
Pattern Specifics
Folkwear 238 includes the full-size pattern pieces, and instructions for making Le Smoking. Enlarge the photo for a better look at the details. Let me know if you’d like to see the envelope back. This is sized for Misses’ S-M-L (30-1/2″ to 38″ bust) and Men’s S-M-L (34-44″ chest). The folder measures 11″ x 8-1/2″ and the pattern is printed on white tissue/vellum paper. This has 1986 copyright.
Condition
See photo. The folder and foldover-top baggy are in very good condition for age with some lighter storage. The pattern and instruction sheets are as new in original factory folds. No names or other markings. From clean, smoke-free home.
Shipping
Generally sent the same day you pay. Unless you request otherwise, I will back this with one piece of box cardboard (to help prevent the Post Office from bending it), wrap it in plastic wrap (to help protect the item from moisture or torn packaging), then send inside a manila envelope when sent via First Class Mail with Delivery Confirmation. This is the cheapest postage option that includes both item protection and tracking. See the shipping page to give you an estimate on the cost of a First Class 2 package. I am delighted to combine postage and insurance costs if you purchase more than one item. The second item may travel for free or just a few cents more — so it’s worth taking a look at my other items before you complete your order.
Not sure?
If you’d like more information about or additional photos of Folkwear 238, please feel free to contact me. If it’s the price you don’t like, make an offer!
Check out my other Historical and Folkwear costume patterns. The more you buy, the cheaper postage is per item!
