Q: Can you please help me find clothing patterns from the 1940s? I have several dresses that belonged to my grandmother, and the style and fit are perfect for me. Does McCall's or Simplicity offer old patterns for sale? If so, is there an address to write for a catalogue?--D.R.W. A: Carole Landis or Gail Patrick might have worn the two-piece dress illustrated here during its original '40s incarnation, and it may well have inspired Paris designer Yves Saint Laurent, who frequently reincarnates the look. You can get the pattern, No. 4073, for $12, plus $1.73 postage, by writing to Past Patterns, 2017 Eastern S.E., Grand Rapids, Mich. 49507. If you would like to see all the company's Brown Paper Copies patterns from the '40s, send $4.25 for the catalogue.
Q: Because of a skin problem, I cannot wear sweaters made of anything other than cotton. I can find plenty of cotton pullovers in the stores, but no cardigans. Can you help? I wear size 40.--H.S. A: Men's and women's classic cotton cardigans are available in the current catalogue published by James River Traders, James River Landing, Hampton, Va. 23631. These are heavier-weight knits with ribbed waists and cuffs and two front pockets. The women's cardigan (in sizes small, medium and large) as well as the men's version (sizes small through extra-large) is priced at $55 each--in blue, gray, white, red or yellow.
