Palm Springs Mid-Mod

We love to go to Palm Springs once or twice a year, usually for a birthday or special event. This last weekend we attended the Rock N’ Luau on Saturday.  Sunday was our day for antiquing and driving through the beautiful mid century modern neighborhoods.   My favorite neighborhood is called Vista Las Palmas.  When built in 1958-59 by the Alexander brothers, it was the Beverly Hills of Palm Springs.  Here the Rat Pack partied with Marilyn, Elvis and Priscilla spent their honeymoon in the famous "House of Tomorrow", and dozens of other stars owned the desert homes. The floor plans were similar; long, low ranch houses, but the front of the houses had interesting architectural features, some designed by William Krisel and some by Charles Dubois.  Butterfly roofs, concrete block walls (by Krisel) and my favorite, the "Swiss Miss" (by Dubois).  There are around 15 Swiss Miss houses in this neighborhood.

I found the perfect Palm Springs dress fabric.   Made by Michael Miller, its called Mod Pad. I thought it would be fun to wear it while on one of our neighborhood tours.  It looks like this:

 

 Since I could only afford 3 yards, I searched for a simple sundress type pattern. I found a very easy Simplicity “Lisette” pattern, number 1419.   It used less than 3 yards.  It only took a few evenings to finish, and I really like the style.  I will be making more dresses from this pattern.  I made the view B, but without the collar. I cut it out to my measurements, but it runs large.  I can use a size smaller on the next dress I make from this pattern.





Dress cost:  3 yards fabric for $27
                   1 zipper  $1.50








 











Jerry has taken dozens of beautiful photos of these homes over the last few years. I would love to show you them all, but here are some of my favorite "Swiss Miss" homes :)

 

"THE HOUSE OF TOMORROW" ELVIS HONEYMOON HIDEAWAY