Hirsch, Gretchen

For intermediate to advanced sewists, but beginners may also appreciate the book’s fashion history sections. This resource’s digital patterns will relieve librarians of having to keep track of pattern pieces.

Though these garments are less suitable for everyday wear than the ones featured in her previous book, Gertie Sews Vintage Casual, the retro-style dresses will appeal to sewists interested in customizing their own 1950s style frock. Hirsch gives clear explanations of dressmaking techniques, but this book is most appropriate for sewists with basic dressmaking experience.

The audience for Hirsch's second book will likely be wider than that for her first, since casualwear is more accessible than retro-cocktail dresses. Though a few pieces veer toward the costumey, women will find that the garments in this collection fall well within contemporary workplace and casual styles but with a clever, retro flair.

Like her blog, Hirsch's book is like a chat with a friend who happens to be an expert seamstress. Even if the vintage-inspired garments aren't your style, there's plenty to learn from this book.