JUDITH MARQUIS: Design your own Basic Yoke Dress

Sizes 11 lbs, 14 lbs, 20 lbs, 26 lbs

The term "classic" or "basic" yoke in smocking refers to a garment that has a horizontal seam across the front bodice, usually in the armhole area or just below. It traditionally has a collar, puff sleeves and smocking to the bottom of the armhole or to the waist. This style of smocked garment was popular in the 30's and endures to this day. The back dress usually echoes the front, with the skirt gathered or smocked onto a yoke, yoke buttoned to the end or to the waist and often has a sash or belt added. In this pattern, traditional styling has been offered as well as a few additional modern looks and variations to help you with your design. However, it also encourages you to take a leap and design your own garment. Each step of the way through construction there are choices you can make, so, plan your garment accordingly with the aid of the 'child's body' (croquis) on the pattern sheet to get the feel of your own design.