Yes, that's me up top. (I think my mother still has that Tonka steam shovel somewhere.)
Friends, if you hadn't seen me in my underwear six hundred times already, today might be more exciting than it is.
What is exciting -- to me at least -- is that I've finally found a vintage men's boxers pattern that works for me: not too baggy, not too high-waisted (after minor alterations) and not too wacky looking.
The pattern is Simplicity 4149, which dates from 1952.
Like all French back boxer patterns, this one has a two-sided waistband. The right side passes through a hole in the left side and then both sides button, making the boxers adjustable.
I decided to make a bound buttonhole for the waistband to pass through (my first). It's definitely more substantial than a regular buttonhole would be.
On the inside the hole looks like this -- all the edges are cleanly finished.
There are also two buttons on the front waistband.
Yesterday, MPB reader Sharon asked what the purpose is of the rear panel (as opposed to a center back seam). I think the idea is that the panel is less likely to creep into one's you-know-what. It looks fuller than it is; many boxers are still cut this way.
The back panel is gathered beneath the waistband and there are two pleats on either side in front -- nice details that help make these special.
BTW, you can still find these at Brooks Brothers for just $30. I say "just" because they're a lot of work.
And that's it!
I spent too long today working on that mint-colored pique robe for my mother, who's coming for lunch tomorrow. I'd hoped to have it finished but I don't think I'm going to; I need to buy a long separating zipper. I'll have something for her to try on at least.
Have a great day, everybody!
P.S. If you're interested in making these or similar French back boxers, check out eBay and Etsy (search under "men's vintage boxers pattern") -- there are quite a few for sale as of today.
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