While stash busting my fabric closet, I’m also practicing couture details…and I really wanted to use one of my favorite fabrics for something I could wear on any day.
FABRIC AND PATTERN
This 100% cotton yellow embroidered gingham fabric was purchased at Jo Ann Fabrics in San Antonio back in 2008 for my first Civil War era gown.
After moving to Virginia and living in Civil War territory, I learned more about historically accurate sewing, which led to my more historically accurate gown.
Mulling over how to reuse the fabric, I’ve decided on New Look 0125 for a contemporary summery dress with vintage flair.
The pattern was a cinch to use, and I had plenty of fabric for the project.
COUTURE JOURNEY
For the inside I experimented with a combination of facings and bias trim, which I made from lightweight natural fiber.
Then, I handpicked my zipper, which I learned long ago from my mom who learned from her very couture aunt who sewed fashionable skirt and jacket suits to wear to her executive secretary job in Manhattan.
To finish the edge, I created a narrow hem my Pfaff sewing machine, which is super quick and easy since ithe fabric is natural fiber, lending to the comfort and look I love.
WEDDING GUEST DEBUT OF THE DRESS
Finished in time to attend a wedding, my son drove his sister and her boyfriend, and me to the chapel in Lexington Park, Maryland to attend the happy event of his suite mate (my second son) and a classmate from Patrick Henry College.
And then swing dancing at the reception was totally fun!
WASHINGTON DC PHOTO SHOOT
While exploring Washington DC with the kids after church, my son did a fun photo shoot for me since I was wearing my new dress.
While my son was getting his fancy camera set up, I handed my cell phone to my daughter to take pictures, too, so that I could immediately post some to my facebook and instagram.
Also I thought it would be fun to have a photo of the official photographer at work!
Greatly appreciated these cute shoes that were quite comfortable for walking around town.
And now for one of the many shots my son took and edited.
Telling me how to pose, he had lots of creative ideas.
TOURING THE TOWN
We had fun exploring two of our favorite destinations, the National Archives and the National Gallery of Art, which are across the street from each other.
