Encouraged by the 18th century and couture sewing, I ventured into sewing contemporary garments again.
Desiring to reflect favorite bits of fashion history from the past, I perused my pattern stash and shopped for fabric.
Since I need a new nice dress, and since my current history research fills my mind with 1950s grandness, my new dress will reflect the circle skirt of the 1950s.
PATTERN
After weighing all the options, I settled on Butterick’s 4795, View B, from their 2006 production line.
FABRIC
Finding a floral print like one on the pattern envelope, I felt overwhelmed by all the extra splash of color.
Loving the quality and drape of the 100% cotton, I decided to use it for the skirt.
For the bodice I chose a 100% cotton white embroidered fabric, which would tame the wild colors in the skirt.
PROCESS
Because of the massive size of the circle skirt, I cut the fabric down in the basement where I had more space than upstairs.
For the bodice, I learned a trick over the years of creating two copies, one for the lining, instead of using facings.
I like the extra layer of lining built-in to act like a slip, which is totally functional.
Never liking the peak throughs of the facings, I like the technique for it’s aesthetic value, too.
Although I sewed the long seams by machine, everything else is handstitched.
After I handpicked the zipper, I stitched a variation of the hemming stitch, called a blind stitch.
Since it was new to me, I got lots of practice learning the technique while enjoying an afternoon movie.
MODELING
Easily whipping this up in two days, I was glad to have a fun, new dress in my wardrobe!
The lovely drape of the fabric creates a fabulous swirl with the skirt.
What a great debut for Vintage Flair!
