26 Sept 2014

experiments in dressmaking - self-drafted dartless dress

Started on Sunday and finished on Wednesday (probably one of the quickest turnarounds where dresses are concerned - really impressed with people who can complete them in one sitting), here's my self-drafted dress!

I think the main reason why I got it finished in good time is because it's dartless. I still really struggle with darts. I know they're important in creating shape but I just couldn't deal with the hassle on this. Yes, the top is a little shapeless but I bloody love me some loose - slightly kimono-esque - sleeves.

The material is ace - lightweight, kind of drapey, I want to use the word cheesecloth but it's not see-through at all. I got it from one of the fabulous fabric caverns on the Goldhawk road about 3 months ago and I really wish I'd made it earlier, this dress would've been perfect for summer.

I teamed it with a belt (to give a little shape and the impression that I actually have a waist) and tights for its first outing to visit my friend (and her gorgeous 4 month old son) in Essex. It works better with bare legs and sandals though I reckon.

Happy Friday all!

11 comments:

  1. Dang. That is crazy, that you can make your own clothes. Well done. I really like the subtle gray and pastel stripes going on.

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  2. Wow, I am super impressed! The best I can manage is to sew straight lines for a cushion cover, I reckon even a simple dress would be out of my ability range.

    Also, your hair is an ace colour here. Is it dyed? It's basically the exact colour I want but I can't find a decent box dye anywhere.

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    1. Thanks Janet! Practice is the key, it's all trial and error. I still mess up sometimes. It's worth having go, one simple skirt and you'd be hooked ;)

      Aw thanks. Yes it's dyed, I actually went to the hairdressers for this but I normally use l'oreal feria in either P37 or P67. Reds can be v.tricky I find because they fade so quickly. Often I find I panic when I first dye it - too dark usually - then about two weeks later it fades to what I want. Red-hair woes!

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    2. Oh I feel you! My hair is at its best after precisely three washes, then it quickly turns orangey as it fades. For the amount it costs me to have it dyed at the hairdressers, I really resent the rapid fade.

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  3. Ooh this is awesome, you really suit that shape and the fabric is gorgeous! :)

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    1. Aw thanks Elise :) I love that fabric too. I've got some left over which might be enough for a skirt...!

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  4. It really suits you! Darns, schmarts I say- they're so fussy and your dress is perfect as it is :) xxx

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    1. Aw thank you :) they are aren't they?! If I can avoid darts in future I will! X

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  5. I love that dress! Very impressive! I can manage a tote bag and some cushion covers but that's it! Need to go outside my comfort zone I think :)

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  6. ah thanks Kate! I'd definitely recommend it, especially if you're already confident using a sewing machine :)

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Ta v.much :)

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