Having learned to sew from ready-made patterns, I am now developing my pattern-making skills  to create clothing from my own designs. I feel a great creative liberation!

This photo is my latest handmade creation, inspired by the 1960s and photographed in the staircase of a Hong Kong building built in 1957.

The dress has a slight V neck, with large central pleat that is framed by two smaller pleats on the sides. For a hint of bouffant, I added a tule underskirt. My aim was elegant simplicity.

For the fabric, I wanted a strong print for the minimalist cut. I chose a slightly shiny cotton fabric with an Ikat-style print of poppy flowers. More popular now than in the 1960s, the use of Ikat combines vintage design with recent fabric trends.

Apparently I am not the only one attracted to the 1950s-1960s fashion.

According to a recent article in The New York Times, designers are now revisiting vintage fashion. Instead of wearing old vintage clothes with an imperfect fit and musty smell, you can now find designers making new versions of retro dresses. Call it the Betty Draper effect.

I am glad others seek 1960s-style glamour in daily life!