Serbin Golfer - 1949

Actress Jane Russell models a Serbin Golfer dress from 1949.  Not only for sports, Serbin sold this dress for daytime around-the-house wear too.  Versatility is the key here with a full length separating zipper hidden behind the fly front, sleeves than could unbutton for more room, a pleated back yoke for easy movement and removable shoulder pads.  Made of striped cotton chambray.  Sold for $12.95 in 1949 (about $123 in today's dollar.)

Serbin of Florida Vintage Dresses

April 1960

Anyone who loves full-skirted cotton dresses from the 1950's and 60's will recognize the name Serbin of Florida. Serbin began as a sportswear manufacturer in Cleveland and they were well known for their golf dresses and co-ordinated separates in the 1940's. The company moved to Miami in 1944 and became known as Serbin of Florida. In the 1950's and early 60's they were noted for their well-made cotton day dresses and sun dresses and by this time, they were one of the largest clothing manufacturers in Florida. Their ads from this era always featured the tag line, "Urban or suburban...always wear a Serbin."

January 1960

Some of their dresses came with matching sweaters edged in the dress fabric.

November 1959

March 1960

I've sold many a Serbin dress over the years, but this is by far my favorite. Striped cotton chambray is cut and pieced to form a hexagonal spider web design on the back of the bodice.

Take a look at how perfectly the 6 pieces are matched at the seams. This is not easy to do, as the seams are cut on the bias of the fabric which tends to stretch as it is sewn. Sorry, ladies, this one recently sold, but I'll keep my eyes open for more great Serbin dresses for you!