"I need to add more color to my wardrobe."
This should be a suitable start.
Not everyone has the need to make this statement. But how many of you have? You see someone in a beautiful and brightly colored outfit and you think "I couldn't pull that color off" or "That's too busy for me". I am very guilty of that. I am always having to remind myself to add color to my wardrobe because I do tend to default to the blacks, greys and earth tones. Every now and then you'll find something bright in my wardrobe but it's usually a simple top paired with some jeans.
But THIS time....OH BOY! Did I make an effort to step outside of my comfort zone. One day while in Joanns (yes, one of the many days, I know), I was in an "add color to my wardrobe" mode. And when I saw this fabric....Love at first sight. Then I touched it. OMG. Love at first touch. It's a cotton blend! Not a silky print that sticks to you in the heat when your skin starts to get moist (people in the south will understand). But a breathable cotton blend, with the flow and weight that skirts and dresses dream about.
I knew this had to be a dress. And a dress with a very full maxi length skirt at that. I wanted as much of this fabric on me as possible! This maxi dress Simplicity 8137, called for 4-3/4 yards.
I am all about simple patterns that make a big statement. This dress was not difficult to make. I wanted to be completely comfortable in this dress which meant, I needed sleeves. The fabric was already "too busy" for the normal Salina. So I had to compromise with how far outside of the box I would go. So I drafted some sleeves that would dance in the wind along with the bottom of the dress. Can you tell I have a fabric addiction?
I was a bit confused about what the pattern was asking as far as the facing for the bodice. But I chose to line the bodice with a solid black polyester as well as use the fabric for a facing along the neck edge.
This fabric is gorgeous and an awesome choice! Can I just say how beautiful you and the garment look together! Bravo! I am inspired to finally start making myself the dress from this pattern. Thank you and I look forward to checking out more of your work!
ReplyDeleteOh my, Salina, I have been looooong time looking for a wrap dress that I could adapt to my generous proportions (3X/4X) You look fantastic and you did a fantastic job making this! The sleeves you made are exactly what I want. I'm probably an intermediate level sewer, though it's been a while. Can you give me some tips about how you drafted your sleeves? Was it from another pattern? You have inspired me to attempt this - already have a wonderful seersucker fabric just waiting. Thank you.
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