A Flapper Dress Pattern for a May Dance

Question: I am interested in making a flapper dress but have been unable to find a pattern. I want to wear the dress to a dance in May, so time is of the essence. Can you help?--A.W.

Answer: Get ready to rouge your knees and tighten your headache band! The flapper dress illustrated here is from an authentic pattern of the ‘20s, available from Past Patterns, Box 7587, Grand Rapids, Mich. 49510. This 1928 design, Pattern 5019, is available only for bust size 38, and it’s priced at $8 plus $2.25 for postage and handling. We took off the sleeves of the original pattern to make it a little more danceable. If you are not bust size 38, you might want to consider Pattern 503, a 1926 design with V neckline, drop waistline and two-tier skirt that is longer in the back. This pattern is priced at $12 and comes in several sizes. Add $2.25 for postage and handling.

Q: I was given a beautiful tie-it-yourself bow tie, but I don’t know how to tie it. Can you print instructions?--A.C.

A: For some reason, tying a tie while looking in the mirror seems to result in disaster for many men. Tie your tie the way you tie your shoestring, and think of it this way: If your shoestring came untied in a dark movie theater, you would reach down and tie it without really seeing it. Apply the same philosophy to your bow tie: Turn your mirror to the wall and start tying. You might want to look in the mirror for minor adjustments, but don’t peek until you’ve finished tying one on.

Q: My daughter and I are unable to wear panty hose because of the nylon content. We have tried wearing cotton panties underneath the panty hose but this solution is unsatisfactory. We have found cotton stockings but cannot locate 100% cotton garter belts. Can you help?--J.S.

A: Cotton broadcloth garter belts are available in two versions at the Vermont Country Store, Box 3000, Manchester Center, Vt. 05255-3000. The control model is a 12-inch, apron-back style with an eight-hook side closure and four-inch mesh weave elastic side panels for stretch. Both front and back panels consist of double layers of broadcloth for extra control.

This garment is available in waist sizes 28-44 for $14.95 plus postage and shipping. The brief model is made with a single layer of broadcloth. It has a two-hook back closure and a three-inch plastic panel for stretch. It comes in waist sizes 24-36 for $7.95 plus postage and handling. Both models have adjustable elastic garters and rubber slide button.

Marylou Luther welcomes questions from readers. Mail to Clotheslines, Fashion86, The Times, Times Mirror Square, Los Angeles 90053.