I've made the bodice once before, to somewhat disastrous results. The straps were completely wonky. If you aren't familiar with the concept of Gertie's book, she gives you patterns to start with, and then suggests alterations to achieve different looks. This is one of those variations where you modify a neckline. When I first made this dress, I had never done that big of a pattern change before, and I didn't yet realize that the patterns in this book were going to require substantial fit adjustments for me as well. It was too many variables! I still wear it with a cardigan over it all the time, but I wanted a chance to redeem myself and do it right. So this time, I started over using my Cambie bodice as my jumping off point. What a difference 2 years makes!
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| Plaid Wintertime Jumper from 2013 |
I lined it with teal bemberg (and clearly didn't re-iron after wearing it...), and then finished it off with a matching belt. An aside on the matching belt - this was the first time in ages I've used the Maxant kit, and it was a lark! I normally use my Great Grandmother's belt buckles, trying to muddle through making my own template and attaching it. The template in the Maxant kit comes with an adhesive that helps you get it onto the buckle, making it very easy to get a nice finish. So, sorry Great Grandmother Mary. I will still use your button supplies, but I've found another buckle to love.
With this fancy purple jumper done, I am now deep in the throes of coat making! I find there is a lot to say about that, so I'll share some in progress snaps with you here soon. Happy winter!
girl there's no cacthing up to you! lol! love the color on you, nice pattern!
ReplyDeleteHelen
That's funny. I've been feeling like I've really been lazing about lately!
DeleteWhat a beautiful job on this dress! I wouldn't think corduroy would drape so well in the skirt, but this works really well. I'm sure it's very cozy on these cold winter days!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know what to expect either, but it turned out really well!
DeleteOoh that looks lovely for cooler weather! You have redeemed yourself tenfold for sure, the fit is perfect! I'm loving corduroy lately. And thanks for the tip on the Maxant kits, I rarely make belts to go with my dresses (in part because I absolutely hate doing it) but I do like the idea of matching covered buckles, so I'll have to give it a try one of these days.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Tasha! The kit definitely made it easier. I was able to finish it up pretty quickly!
DeleteAt first I thought the jumper was velvet - that corduroy looks so luscious. I've been wanting to make my own belts so am very pleased that you linked to your material sources. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteOh, you're right! It does look like velvet. Have fun with the belts!
DeleteLove it, the colour is great and the pattern is fantastic, I've wanted a dress like that for ages and I didn't think that corduroy would work with a circle skirt. I'm very envious at the moment ;-)
ReplyDeleteWhy, thank you! I wasn't sure either, but then I found this 1950s dress on Pinterest when I was digging for inspiration: http://www.pinterest.com/pin/47850814766736161/. I even tried to do the pockets like that, but I just didn't like how they drew attention to my hips. Otherwise, basically the same!
DeleteOooh that is nice. I might have to think about making myself a corduroy dress when the weather gets cooler - I don't think I've ever worn it as an adult! Although I probably should make the corduroy pants my husband keeps asking for first...
ReplyDeleteOhh, you're good to even attempt to sew for others. I'm such a selfish sewer!
DeleteOoh, thanks for the reminder about the Maxant kits. I looked at those a couple of years ago, but they were all out of stock. Glad to see that you can get them again!
ReplyDeleteGlad to help!
DeleteWhat a great colour!! It looks lovely on you :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sarah!
DeleteLovely!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Natalie!
DeleteThat looks fantastic! And the belt is so sweet - you have me wanting to make matching belts for all my dresses now!!
ReplyDeleteIt's an addicting habit, for sure. I went through a phase where I did fabric-covered buttons for most everything, and only stopped when I realized sometimes it blends in too much to even be noticed!
DeleteI love this. I'm perpetually drawn to purple and have had a love for corduroy since high school so this right here is like a dream dress for me. Nice work.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Mandi!
DeleteOh my gosh, my sisters and I wore a lot of those jumpers in the 60s. My mom made me a similar red corduroy one for my "Girls Choir" uniform. (Back then, moms were expected to sew, and were just told what pattern and fabric.) So you're all ready for the "Sing-along Sound of Music"!
ReplyDeleteIf only there was a sing-along Sound of Music. I am a terrible singer, but that sounds terribly fun!
DeleteOoh, thanks for the link back so I can buy some more of those nifty buckle sets (love the template and the sticky piece) and USE the one I have left (it lives on the mood board and begs to come down and be used). Love that jumper! Purple corduroy is the best.
ReplyDeleteNowadays, folks like me get paid to make and hem the fancy dresses the girls' choir wear. For which I am terribly thankful in the autumn. Thanks lazy moms!
Thanks, SJ! Happy hemming!
DeleteThis is BEAUTIFUL, Lauren. Honestly, I didn't even know corduroy could be legitimately beautiful, until seeing this jumper. The fit is lovely, the color positively glows on you, and the whole outfit is both chic and cozy. Love it!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Mary! I had totally forgotten how soft and cozy corduroy was. I haven't worn it since college, and I think I may need another corduroy piece next winter!
DeleteGreat job...you inspire me!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Lis! That makes my day.
DeleteOoo! This is gorgeous. I absolutely love the colour - one of my favourite shades, and also the fabric belt.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lynne! The color really makes it, I think.
DeleteThat's a beautiful color on you! And great job with the fit. I love your compare/contrast with your prior attempt on this dress - it shows how much you have improved which is always fun!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kim! I know. When I pulled that photo back up, I couldn't believe it!
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