I decided to be a bit sensible and choose a simple style that I've made before, but in a special fabric. I used this old BurdaStyle sheath dress pattern, it's from 02/2009, but I can't find it available online.
I found some guipure lace just over the border in Shenzhen, China in one of my favourite colours and immediately knew it was the one, I also got some matching silk crepe lining.
While this is normally a very straightforward dress to put together, making it in lace is quite time consuming. I underlined each piece with the silk lining - I always prefer to baste them together by hand on a large flat surface than stitch on the machine. I also cut the fabric with extra wide seam allowances so I could have plenty of room to fit as I sewed, which added in extra time for basting, trying on, taking off, tweaking and so on for what seemed like forever.
When I was happy with the fit the seam allowances were trimmed, pressed and then slipstitched by hand to the underlining so they would stay nice and flat. I didn't add a separate lining so I also wanted the sides to look good and feel smooth. I used interfaced pieces of the silk crepe for the neck facings. The hems were also finished by hand. It was surprising how heavy the dress was when finished, it has a luxurious feel to it and I was really happy with it, but pleased to get it finished after so much handstitching and the deadline fast approaching.
This is the back partway through fitting, the dress form really helped me get pretty close actually.
And the finished dress which looks so simple from the outside!
The wedding itself was fabulous (obviously - you know the Irish are going to put on a good party) and the sun even made an appearance during the outdoor ceremony.
The whole trip was great, although I'm really stuck with my sewing now that I'm back. I think I have that trans-seasonal problem that seems to strike - it still feels far too hot to think about anything other than summer clothes, but I am also kind of excited to get stuck in to the recent brilliant issues of Burda. I can't seem to get my brain to focus on anything, I think a fabric shopping expedition may help don't you?!
Such a lovely dress for a special occasion and worth all the effort you put in to make the construction so luxurious, it looks very glam.
ReplyDeletethat is such a great pattern. And the lace is so current and glam. You and the dress look lovely.
ReplyDeleteA gorgeous dress and that colour looks so good on you. Fabric shopping is always a good idea!
ReplyDeleteSuch a gorgeous colour! Lace is surprisingly heavy, but so luxurious.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! Choosing lace was an exquisite choice for your dress and the color was a perfect choice.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful dress, and the fitting is perfect!
ReplyDeleteIt's gorgeous!! And always best to use a known pattern with a special fabric + special occasion. It turned out perfectly.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely find a piece of fabric for a nice transitional garment! Perhaps something sleeveless that can be worn now and topped with a cardigan or jacket when the weather cools?? Or a skirt that works alone now or over tights later.
The perfect combination of pattern and fabric. Great dress.
ReplyDeleteFantastic, what a beautiful color and perfect choice of pattern for that fabric. Great fit too! I love Ireland, have been a couple of times and I would return at any opportunity.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful dress on you! Wonderful construction details!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous dress, you have chosen the perfect pattern for this fabric and your fit is spot on.
ReplyDeleteA beautiful dress. You chose the perfect pattern to highlight the gorgeous lace. And it was a plus that it was a style you had sewn before and looks great on you. I too love to sew for special occasions, especially when the fabric is something luxurious and unique.
ReplyDeleteFabulous dress--it is so nice.
ReplyDeleteWow pretty dress! Leca is so bautiful.
ReplyDeleteI made this pattern years ago and only wore it once. While I love the embroidered cotton I used I did not fit it enough and hangs loose on my body. Seeing how lovely yours looks reminds me I need to fix mine.
ReplyDeleteSuch a beautiful dress. I recall seeing it some time back (maybe even on your blog?) And was surprised at the shoulder coverage which isn't apparent in the line drawing. I think it's time I tried this - thanks for reminding me Allison 😃
ReplyDeleteSo pretty! The color, style, fit... all so perfect! I always love seeing your makes, it's always very inspiring.
ReplyDeleteThis is your color! Beautiful dress in every way!
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