Burda Style For people who sew

Description

This is an ensemble for an “I Love Lucy” halloween costume. I based the pattern on an original 1950s shirtdress. The dress is navy cotton with white dots, cap sleeves with white bias trim, a rounded collar and lapels, and a “full full FULL” circle skirt (as Frank requested).

I love challenges, so i was thrilled when Frank posted his request on craigslist. I’ve been into drag for awhile, but haven’t found a willing victim. And this was a challenge. Frank is 6’1" and wears a D cup, so clearly I had some enlarging to do on my original size 34 bust pattern.

I lengthened the bodice 3 inches at chest level (about 2" above the bustline) and another 4 inches through the waist. I added two waist darts (for a total of three on each side) and a bust dart to accommodate his large bust-waist difference.

For the skirt, I just drafted a 1/3 circle of the correct length, and cut out enough to fit the waist.

I based the apron on a picture I found in Vogue for the 1950s. It’s just an oval with the top cut off. I used my ruffler attachment to pleat the straight edge, and attached it to self-fabric ties.

I also made him a VERY full tulle petticoat, which I also used my ruffler attachment for. He’s probably wearing about 15 yards of tulle under there, and who knows how many yards of lace!

Material Notes

Dress: navy/white dotted cotton, white plastic buttons Apron: White cotton petticoat: nylon tulle, cheap lace, acetate lining. elastic

Categories

For

Men

Garment Type

Costume

Style

Vintage

Material

Cotton, Tulle