I was on Pattern Review last week and saw that the UFO contest was going. I decided to enter with only 3 days left, in order to give me that extra drive to finish this dress. See, I started working on the dress again last month and was about to place it to the side again. Let me share with you the history of this dress.
Two years ago, was the time that I started back sewing and was in need of a dress to wear to the opera. I am fan of Kay Unger patterns, so I decided to make V1182 out of chocolate silk dupioni. I found the perfect shoes and clutch bag. I got as far as placing the lining in the dress, then it happened. I was not able to attend the opera. Gave my ticket away and reminded myself as to why I need a job.
So fast forward two years. I was looking at the opera schedules to see what I want to attend this season. Well I have to tell you that most people in my neck of the woods, do not dress formally for the opera. I have thoughts on that, but I wont share them. Trust me it’s best. But I like too, so I do. I want a few new dresses to wear this season, so I decided to finish V1182. Don’t you just love that about sewing for yourself? OK, here is the break down.
Description: Fitted, above mid-knee, lined, sleeveless dresses A, B with princess seams, front pleats, large collar, back slit opening and invisible zipper closing. B: purchased trim.
Fabric: Chocolate Silk Dupioni – NY Fashion Center
Bemberg Rayon Lining
Sewing Technique: The only change I made to the pattern was add additional width to the hips. Now at this point of my sewing journey, I had not embraced learning to fit my body. Therefore, I did not do a FBA. But as you can see my girls need some room. Also, I did not underline the dress. I know it’s a travesty, I have no reason for such neglect.
Sewing Details: The instructions on this dress in general are good except for the lining. Installing the lining is a challenge. As I started on this dress again, I realized the lining was not correct. So reread and reread the instructions to see where I went wrong. Then it hit me. I had sewn the left and right fronts to the wrong skirt piece of the lining. ARRRRRRRG! So, I took out the lining, disassemble it and started over.
Conclusion: Overall I like the pattern and will make it again for a couple of reasons. First I’m really not happy with the fit of the dress and that will bug me. Second, I want it in a different color. Right now, I’m not sure what I’m going to do with the dress. However, I’m glad it’s finished. Now, I have one less UFO.
Well these last three post (including this post), is what I accomplished in July. A dress, pair of pants, a top and an unfinished project. I have to say, I’m a little tickled with myself. Mainly, because this the most I’ve sewn in a month, since I started back sewing.
Until next time…….keep sewing!
4 comments
I love how the dress looks on you. I would love to make a dress similar to it, unfortunately vogue pattern instructions always throws me off.
On another note…It's funny how people no longer dress up to anything anymore. I hate that. It takes away from the unique and special nature of the event.
Silk Dupioni can be a challenge. With a FBA the fit on the dress will be on point.
I love it! Absolutely beautiful 🙂
Very elegant and fits perfect! Nice…very nice! I bet this is one project that you are happy to have completed!