Let's start from the beginning.
It was an unseasonably warm day in November when I finally sat down to look at the vogue fall collection.
I knew they were out but because of family obligations I didn't have the time to go through them.
I remember scrolling through the patterns and instantly pausing at V8825.
I thought it was a faux wrap dress at first, the technical drawing proved differently but I was still impressed.
How do I love this pattern, let me count the ways.
There is nothing like a shawl collar made from a knit fabric, made even better when it forms into a
surplice bodice at an empire waistline, that lengthens out into a pencil skirt silhouette. I couldn't design it
better.
Of course, I thought, another knit dress, just what I need but I knew this one would look good on me so
I gave in.
Another factor for choosing this dress, was watching a few of the spring collections as I stated in the video.
I also loved the look of this Issa dress I have displayed on my vision board.
This style of dress has a universally flattering appeal, it seems like most body types can pull it off.
The conundrum is always fabric choice isn't it?
I explain making capsules to non sewers as being a designer's assistant.
They hand you the patterns with instructions that you have to come up with the color palette, the concept
of the collection, find the fabric, sew the garments and put together the runway looks all by your self.
My approach for this one was to figure out what color knit dress I haven't made before.
My list was long, obviously I haven't made as many knit dresses as I thought, however, I finally chose Navy Blue.
How could I not have a navy blue dress?
I love blue, it is my absolute favorite color.
Sometimes fabric falls into your lap as you will read in a later post but not this one.
I couldn't find a navy jersey I felt was the perfect color navy or the right weight or any number of
obsessive compulsive reasons to keep hunting for a fabric, until I saw this geometric print on ebay.
Fabric can be truly gorgeous, as in, it will surely take your breathe away causing you to gawk wide eyed
at the screen of your computer, phone or if you are lucky to have it in front of you, wow, that is a moment to behold.
The world stops spinning when you are that excited.
I have a weak spot for geometric prints, I find them very "work friendly" and more serious than their floral counterparts.
That's why I couldn't hit the buy button fast enough, the sooner I buy it, the faster I get it, I thought.
It came three days later.
From the moment I opened that package I knew, that this project would be wonderful.
I had no problems making this dress at all.
I chose to go down a size and that always makes me anxious because I find vogue to be very true to size
with their patterns. I was worried about how the bodice pieces would fold over each other to form the surplice neckline.
Usually, I would pin it, try it on to check the fit.
This time, it didn't even cross my mind, this could have been a huge mistake but it worked out.
The length is good and the best part are the sleeves.
I can't say I am a fan of long sleeve knit dresses, but if I was ever going to do it, this is the year.
I wore this dress on the first day back to work after the new year.
After living in work out outfits and pajamas for a 10 days I wanted to wear something just as comfortable but stylish.
My boots was a Christmas gift from my honey. I had my eye on this one for a while and Santa delivered.
Navy and red lips goes without saying.
Overall, I am happy with this dress.
I know I will have some wadders down the line but this one was a success.
Not a bad way to start the year at all.
Fantastic start to the sewing year, this dress looks sensational on you, love the print and the style. I think you could (should!) make it again in a solid or different prints.
Posted by: allisonc | January 07, 2013 at 06:37 PM
That dress is so beautiful. Ad the way you styled it - PERFECT!!!
Posted by: Faye Lewis | January 07, 2013 at 07:42 PM
You dress is wonderful. I have this pattern and must make it soon. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by: Lynn | January 07, 2013 at 09:03 PM
I love this on you. Just gorgeous!
Posted by: adrienne | January 09, 2013 at 12:40 PM
Very very pretty dress! I may have to pick up this pattern too inspite of trying to refrain from going to the fabric store!
Posted by: Noriecreates creates | January 09, 2013 at 05:52 PM
This is gorgeous on you!
Posted by: Anne Barnes | January 09, 2013 at 06:10 PM
Beautiful dress and I love the fabric!
Posted by: Novy | January 09, 2013 at 07:40 PM
Awesome!
Posted by: Mary in FL | January 09, 2013 at 07:46 PM
Beautiful dress, what a nice dress to start the year with
Posted by: Aminat | January 09, 2013 at 08:45 PM
Killer dress and fierce styling. What a great way to start the year off.
Posted by: Velosewer | January 10, 2013 at 05:44 AM
It's a gorgeous dress and the pattern and fabric go together so well. Now I have another pattern to add to my wishlist :)
Posted by: Robyn | January 17, 2013 at 05:58 AM
I love this look. Where do you find such beautiful fabrics?
Posted by: Kathyann | January 24, 2013 at 06:29 PM