Sunday 7 October 2012

Shut up and sew something!

That was pretty much the talk I had with myself this week and, very occasionally, I listen. My fabric mountain is not going to sew itself. So here's what I've made this weekend, ably assisted by Doris:

The Interview Dress

I have an interview on Tuesday, it matters to me, enough said. I thought I'd focus my nervous energy on making something to wear.




Fabric:

  • Japanese superfine cotton lawn
  • Bluewater Craft Show Sept 2012
  • 1.5 metres, £9
Pattern:

  • The People Pattern Service No 919, 1960s I think
  • Vintage Craft Fair March 2012
  • Part of a bundle I got for £2.50, so about 50p. However, I'm calling this free as it's the fourth time I've made it (twice for me, once for my daughter)
  • All previous versions sleeveless and 'interlined'(I think this is right, effectively sewed lining and fabric as one?)
  • This is not exactly as originally intended, I've winged it with instructions, altered the neckline, taken in seams, shortened and tapered the skirt but it's only small tweaks to the pattern. Oh, and some of the facings were missing (and wouldn't fit now anyway) so I remade those.
  • This uses so little fabric it's a real stashbuster of a dress


Notions:
  • Thread, from stash
  • That's it, no fastenings at all
  • Belt that I already own. I'm not sure about a matching belt this time as it might get lost because of the fabric pattern. I have sufficient scraps left if I change my mind.
I love Doris dearly but she's not doing this justice, it looks less 'sack like' on honestly!
With new Laura Ashley cardigan and M&S shoes - the purchase of which may have negated the money-saving benefits of my bargain dress. However, I have a 'wardrobe building plan', both pieces will get lots of wear. And I'm a rubbish knitter and cannot make shoes!


Lessons Learned:

Style my hair and do my face after putting on any 'over the head' outfit!


This is such a straightforward pattern, now I've altered it to literally only a front & back piece, both cut on the fold. Tweaking the side seams and belting it give it the shape. It's smart and so easy for work and a classic shape.


I'm generally struggling with fit, this is a breath of fresh air but I think I need to get brave and move on. I can't just keep wearing the same dress!

Over and out :)

5 comments:

  1. Your dress is lovely! The blue cardigan really brings out the blue in the fabric. And I have to say what a bargain on the pattern and the fabric! Good luck for your interview. :)

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  2. The dress is lovely Jacq, and you've accessorised it beautifully. I'm sure you'll look great at your interview, which should give you confidence. Good luck, I'll keep my fingers crossed for you.

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  3. Beautiful, and I love the way you've accessorised it. Good luck for Tuesday!

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  4. Love the outfit with all of the accessories!! Good luck!!

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  5. Thank you all so much, fingers crossed!

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Thank you so much for taking the time to comment :)