An outfit : the dress
For the second time in my sewing history (for the first time see here) I planned and executed an outfit. The execution is the key here as I plan lots of things that never come to fruition! Please tell me I’m not the only one?
For this post I’m focusing on the dress. A post about the jacket follows.
The fabric, a twill-like cotton, has been a long time stash resident. The colours are probably a little muted for my current personal taste and style, but this is one of these pieces of fabric that I just couldn’t part with. It wasn’t expensive… I purchased it from the remnant basket at Clear It… but there was just something about it. I find that it sometimes it takes a while for pattern and fabric combinations to reveal themselves. I’m glad I didn’t give up on this fabric as it is perfect for a 3/4 sleeved smock-style dress that can be layered in the cooler months.
My Japanese pattern of choice for this dress is Pattern E ‘Blue Embroidery’ from Simple Style Dress by Machiko Kayaki.
The pattern is designed for border prints (it’s the dress on the right side of the back cover), but I think that it works equally as well without.
This book includes three sizes… size 9, 11 and 13. I sewed the middle size and it fits well. I did add two inches to the neck binding pattern piece as I was worried it wouldn’t go over my head. The truth of the matter is that I should have left it as is, as the neckline is roomer than it needs to be. You win some, you loose some!
My one complaint with this book is that the finished garments are photographed on coat hangers and/or dress forms. With this sort of ‘modelling’ I find it hard to gauge sleeve and hem lengths. The sleeve length on this dress was just what I was hoping for, but I must admit I got a bit of a fright when trying on the unhemmed dress. It was much shorter that I expected. I therefore overlocked the bottom edge and then turned up the hem just enough to hide the overlocking and machine stitched it in place.
Pattern: Pattern E ‘Blue Embroidery’ from Simple Style Dress by Machiko Kayakih (Japanese language only)
Size: 11
Fabric: Cotton from Clear It (Alanah Hill Outlet)
Alterations: I unnecessarily added two inches to the neck binding
Accessories: Sophie Digard scarf from Scarlet Jones & boots from Florsheim
How satisfying to execute an entire outfit! I’m not far off one myself actually and it’s very exciting! Lovely combination, look forward to reading about the jacket…. And yes, you and Lara tipped me over the Instagram edge!
Now that just teasing… looking forward to your post (or Instagram) of the said outfit. I hope you find some sewing time this weekend.
I like it! I’m afraid i would look like a pregnant peasant artist but it works very well on you!!
LOL. I know this style is not for everyone but I’m going to enjoy it, and all the big meals I can consume while wearing it.
Looking good. This is a great dress, I like the short length. Looks good. The gathering at the neck looks fabulous too.
Thanks Louise. I will confess that I primarily brought this book for this pattern.
Nope you’re on your own! I don’t make outfits. I’m terrible at it. Most of my pieces are made to wear alone or to be matched with an existing RTW item (usually jeans), but I love your outfit!! And the length is fine! Wish I could wear coloured tights. They look terrible on me, but awesome on you!
Coloured tights are new territory… and there will be an adjustment period. By this time next year you can expect all colours of the rainbow!
Wow it’s lovely Anna, I’ve been away for a few weeks so have enjoyed catching up with your creations this morning! Love the petite dog – so cute!
The dress style really suits you especially the gathered neckling, can’t wait for the info on the jacket – do I spy liberty binding inside it 🙂
neckling – now there’s a new sewing word – I mean neckline!
You have very keen eyes Janette. Not Liberty but equally as fabulous Nani Iro brushed cotton.
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