I made this dress for my sister’s formal, which was quite an undertaking to say the least!
No pattern was used for this dress (big mistake! at least for me, since I’m still learning…). Rather, it was loosely based on a preexisting 1950s dress on etsy
1. I drafted a basic bodice pattern according to these instructions. Once I had done that, I altered the neckline and bodice back to my darling sister’s liking hehe. It may not be obvious in the pics but the front and back bodice have princess seams cos I like them ;p.
2. Muslin – I probably altered the muslin about 3x due to my inexperience in drafting patterns :(
3. The bodice was lined with heavy weight interfacing as my sister and I foolishly selected charmeuse satin! (we loved the colour!) which is really thin and delicate. Interfacing added structure :)
4. Skirt – this was a simple circle skirt. I got the pattern from YouTube
As you can see I intended to draft a sweetheart neckline, however, it just didn’t turn out right :( – it was far too ‘gapey’, so, it had to go!
I also intended to line the bodice but by the time I altered the neckline, it was too late. However, I applied facings to the front and back and added a skirt lining.
All up with materials.. the dress cost about $60 :x
Any tips, advice? I’d really love to learn about patternmaking – any good books out there? :(
charmeuse satin, lining, interfacing, thread, invisible zipper, patience
Intermediate
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Dec 6, 2012, 04.56 PMby colorfulphoebe
what a gorgeous dress!
1 Reply
Dec 12, 2012, 09.14 AMby haela
Thank you :) It was worth the effort in the end :p
Dec 6, 2012, 04.32 PMby corinaladue
So pretty. Great color too.
1 Reply
Dec 12, 2012, 09.15 AMby haela
Thank you :) It was a bit awkward to work with as it’s charmeuse satin :/
Dec 6, 2012, 11.49 AMby LizS
Looks like a great fit and really professional finish. A very classic dress!
1 Reply
Dec 12, 2012, 09.17 AMby haela
Wow thank you! :D Finishing the dress was really challenging as I’m not very experienced :(
Dec 6, 2012, 09.08 AMby lienepien
Looks great I like the color green you used!
1 Reply
Dec 12, 2012, 09.17 AMby haela
Thanks :D me too! it goes with her colouring nicely
Dec 6, 2012, 06.16 AMby Mary Athey
It was well worth the effort as its gorgeous x
1 Reply
Dec 12, 2012, 09.17 AMby haela
blush thank you :)