Helene Scott - Maternity Designer

Helene Scott started in the fashion industry as a model.  When she became pregnant with her first child, she started designing her own maternity clothing.  She received many positive comments about her designs and decided to start her own business.  These photos are from a two page advertisement by Celanese in 1956.  Scott used Celanese acetate fabrics to make adaptations of European fashion for the American maternity market.   This is how the fashionable woman who was expecting dressed for evening in 1956.

Above:  Scott's adaptation of a suit by Miguel Dorian of Spain.  The silk/acetate blend cape suit is matched with a striped blouse.  Sold for $60 in 1956 (about $500 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a design by Simonetta.  Acetate satin dress with back pleats and belt.  Sold for $50 in 1956 (about $417 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a Givenchy evening gown in acetate satin.  Sold for $70 in 1956 (about $584 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a Sybil Connolly tiered dress in sheer acetate/nylon chiffon.  Sold for $50 in 1956 (about $417 in today's dollar.)

Scott's adaptation of a Norman Hartnell cocktail dress in black acetate crepe with white lace.  Sold for $40 in 1956 (about $334 in today's dollar.)

Vintage Maternity Fashions - 1960

Today, a look at some vintage maternity fashions from 1960. While many women wore tunics over pants that had an elastic panel in front for at home daytime or casual wear, dresses were worn when going into town or for evening.

Jeanette Maternities offered these empire waisted wool jersey dresses that feature pleats and tucks at the front.

Jumpers worn over blouses were popular for day. High necklines and Peter Pan collars add to the modest appearance of these sets.

Dressier occasions call for a dressier look. The simple sheath dress with plaid coat at the left by Ma Mere has a matching hat. The other two afternoon dresses are by Page Boy Maternity.

Here you can see tunic tops worn over skirts. Again, demure necklines and sweet bows rule the day.


Speaking of vintage maternity fashion, I thought the Mad Men costume department did an excellent job with Betty Draper's costumes for the first 4 episodes of Season 3, didn't you? I can't wait for Season 4, which should air sometime this summer!