Sweet Summer Dresses - 1961

It's the end of January. About this time every year, I start to get tired of cold weather and wish for tropical breezes through open windows. You know, the type of weather that allows you to wear sweet little summer dresses like these from 1961. Take note of the adorable headbands accented with flowers and brooches and the wonderful bouffant hairdos.

I should mention here that the dollar values given are not what the dresses should sell for today on the vintage market. I am strictly comparing what each particular dress cost in 1961 to the amount that cost would equal today using an inflation calculator. In doing so, I am not assigning a value to a vintage dress you may have in your closet. There seems to have been some confusion about that. OK, disclaimer over!

Left: Orange and white gingham check edged in white braid by McArthur. Sold in 1961 for $17.95 (about $129 in today's dollar).
Right: Black polka dots on white with black velvet ribbon trim by R&K Originals. Sold in 1961 for $22.95 (about $165 in today's dollar).

Country Set separates feature embroidered Maypole dancers on yellow and white striped cotton chambray. Left: Skirt with attached petticoat worn with sleeveless blouse. Sold in 1961 for $20.00 (about $144 in today's dollar).
Right: Embroidered popover top with button back worn over fully lined "deck pants". Sold in 1961 for $15.00 (about $108 in today's dollar).

Sue Brett black and white plaid voile shirtwaist. Sold in 1961 for $17.98 (about $129 in today's dollar).

Juniorite orange broadcloth appliqued with oversize flowers. Sold in 1961 for $17.95 (about $129 in today's dollar).

Left: Pale blue voile decorated with white lace medallions by Betty Barclay. Sold in 1961 for $14.98 (about $107 in today's dollar).
Right: Orange and red diagonal stripes by Jeanne D'Arc. Sold in 1961 for $17.95 (about $129 in today's dollar).