Cover Designs is a feature in which I try to match up the outfit on a book cover with a dress pattern and sometimes even potential fabric matches as well. Today's pick is The Secret Life of Violet Grant by Beatriz Williams.
This story moves back and forth, between Manhattan, 1964. where Vivian Schuyler has defied her rich family to join a NY magazine as a journalist, and Berlin 1914, where Violet Grant, a young physicist, faces a decision between her older German husband and a young British army captain at the outset of WWI. Vivian's search for the truth about her long forgotten aunt drives a fascinating family story across the decades.
As for the cover, we have an independent woman shown here, wearing a pantsuit in the 30s style. What could we use to copy this shipboard style? We might start with this vintage pattern, a 30s style 'beach pyjama' outfit. The pants are just right; wide legged, with front patch pockets. But the blouse is a little off.
For a blouse that's a little closer, you could try this vintage reprint now available through Lady Marlowe. It has the right crisp short sleeve and slightly gathered front.
To get this chic summer look, use a beautiful drapy white fabric. Maybe some Radiance Silk, a silk-cotton blend by Robert Kaufman, as found at Riverside Fabrics
Or a flowing linen-bamboo blend for that classic feel, at GK Fashion Fabrics
To this, add a flat, wide brimmed hat and a silk scarf, and you'd have the look exactly. Keep dreaming of summer!
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