Monday, August 6, 2007

Does this look like a couch???

In my opinion, NO. The fabric is a tweed made of ivory, chocolate, and rust. The pattern is Vogue 8107, with a bias cut center front and center back. Warning: Stabilize the center back as soon as you cut the fabric, to reduce "waves" in the zipper. I'll never make that mistake again...
Aside from that, I'm really happy with the dress. It can be belted, or paired with blouse in cooler weather. I think it's a flexible garment, and comfortable to wear. I like the large box pleats at the hem, although I do admit seeing a little "couchi-ness" there.

What do you think?

Butterick 4978



I will definitely make this dress again...


I used a black and white chiffon from JoAnn's and lined it with black. I wanted to use white, so the print would "pop", but it was still see-through. I know... I should've underlined it in white, and lined it in black. Anyhow, it's nearly weightless, has a fitted waistband and bias-cut A-line skirt. It is very flattering, and the neckline is comfortable, the fit and the cut. Next project: a black shantung short sleeve jacket to go with it!


p.s. It's hard to see, but the neckline has a keyhole. Here is a close-up of the front, and a view of the back.



My "Carnival" Skirt





This story starts with a great bargain find at Jo-Ann's. I thought this lightweight embroidered cotton was beautiful, and would make a great skirt. It took me a few months, but I found the perfect pattern that would allow me to set the border at the hem, with Vogue 2894, an Oscar de la Renta design. Really easy instructions to follow, and a flattering fit (I was nervous the pleats would made me look wider in the hips). Finished it up, tried it on, at which point I was informed that I looked like a gypsy headed to the carnival. Hmmm.... truth or fiction? I couldn't be swayed, I really liked it, so I forged ahead with a red linen jacket to match, using the same Vogue pattern. Fully lined, 3/4 sleeves and cropped, it was a style I've seen a lot this season, and would be great with jeans, too. So comfortable, I'm really happy with the outcome, and am trying to keep the carnival comment silent.