From Inspirations to Notions....

Inspiration #1--My sister's birthday gift. I commented in an earlier post that we celebrated my sister turning '21' again---wink, wink. For her birthday, I made this dress. Please excuse the mess behind the dress form.

For those who know my sister, they know that it starts with Neimans, Saks or Bergdorf Goodman. The first pic above is her inspiration. After some editorial discussions (mainly her saying she likes this, not that), I responded with---New Look #6615.

• Pattern Rating: None
• My Rating: Easy-Moderate
• Skills Required: Pattern measure, sizing, selection, cutout---tracing pattern markings onto fabric--- stitching straight seams, darts & “in the ditch”
• Instructions: Clear with detailed visual aides----especially regarding yoke installation
• Lining Options: Same as fashion fabric pattern pieces in the bodice only. Caution---if using sheer fabric, consider lining the bottom portion of the dress.
• Oops Moment: None, even with altering the sleeve with cuffs and tie ends
• Do Again? Absolutely! Used same pattern for mommy-to-be sundresses with cap sleeve.
• Recommend? Absolutely! It’s a chic look that's comfortable.

Inspiration #2--Prom season 2008

This project brought an opportunity to work with something I had not handled since I was a young child----Tutus! The inspiration dress (1st pic) was a tutu dress with a corset top worn by Rihanna. What struck my prom dress lady were the coordinating dots. What struck me was the cleavage!! :^) The result, a tutu bottom from scratch and a corset-styled top using McCall's#5320. (Side note: LOVED the BCBG shoes!!)

• Pattern Rating: None
• My Rating: Moderate
• Skills Required: Pattern measure, sizing, selection, cutout---tracing pattern markings onto fabric--- stitching straight seams, darts & “in the ditch”---installing boning, zipper, hooks & double-sided bonding material.
• Instructions: Clear with detailed visual aides.
• Lining Options: Same as fashion fabric pattern pieces in the bodice only.
• Oops Moment: None
• Do Again? Definitely the tutu part. That was really fun.
• Recommend? Yes, who doesn't love a tutu?