Nova Scotia Quilts

Archive for the ‘New Germany’ Category

I’m posting several pieces of lady’s clothing made in the early 1980’s by Suttles and Seawinds – the labels are signed by Vicky Lynn Bardon and the location – New Germany, Nova Scotia, Canada was the original location of the factory and store in the late 70’s through to mid eighties. I attended their annual sales there at the time and the selection of clothing, accessories, kitchen linens etc, as well as fine quality fabric was exciting. The garments were made using cottage industry based from the homes of local needlewomen in the New Germany area of Lunenburg in Nova Scotia. These fashions are no longer made, as times changed and the labour intensive handwork was no longer economically viable. Today Suttles and Seawinds still make upmarket fashions, and has a presence in Mahone Bay, but these fashions are not nearly as highly detailed and require little handwork.

Above is a very pretty full skirt – with some piecing and a wide band of black silk ribbon on the bottom. It is small size skirt, the waistband has two positions and at the smaller position is is 26 inches. Length is 31.5 inches, with an ample hem offering an additional 2.5 inches, should you need more length.

PRICE: $75 USD + shipping

The dress above is a heavyweight cotton, in excellent condition – ideal as a winter dress, and suitable for many occasions. The previous owner told me she bought it for her daughter who did not care for it and therfore didn’t wear it at all. The fabric is a beautiful printed stripe which makes full use of that print in its styling – pin tucked to the waist and then swirling out in unpressed pleats. Long sleeves are fastened with tiny velcro fastenings so are infinitely adjustable, and the finishing touch is a lovely ruffle of ecru Irish cluny lace at the neck.

34 inches at both the slightly raised waist and across the chest, the length is (neck to hem) 49 inches with no leeway to let down the hem due to the way in which the bottom border has been joined to prevent a bulky seam. Size on the label is marked as large.

PRICE: $95 USD + shipping

Pictured above is the entrancing Ann of Green Gables skirt. This skirt is carefully hand pieced and hand appliqued to an original design and depicts Ann Shirley’s home in Prince Edward Island – Green Gables. This skirt was made in very limited quantities for a short period of time and I have only seen the one. I was told it had retailed for over $200 in the shop. it has a half waistband of elastic and adjustable ties – unstretched the waist is 26 inches, while stretched it is close to 30 inches – in addition the button can be moved out another half inch or so. Skirt is on a yoke in front and ties close in the back. Length is 35 inches with another 1.5 available in the hem if you need more length.

PRICE: $149 USD and shipping