In November, a sewing friend and I made plans to get together and work on fitting. I have always wanted a 'straight' dress that fit me. Ideally, I'd like a darted sheath dress, but thankfully we had been working on this Simplicity Amazing Fit Dress - Pattern 2648. We had the fit all worked out and I have to say, in a single fabric - I didn't love it. It looked boring and very blah on me. It needed some interest - like the belt. My friend and I both agreed.
When I saw Carolyn's dress for her Pleasant Purple Dress and Jacket - I knew that would work. I felt comfortable and confident in the dress all day. Although I will say - there are things I could have done differently - like lining the dress or at least the bodice. I used bias to finish the neckline and armholes and fought with them while wearing. Not good.
After finishing the dress on Sunday, I was ready to start the jacket. I have never made a jacket and this one is not perfect by any means. Look closely the buttons and buttonholes are reversed! I was amazed how much I was able to get done in just a couple of hours each evening after work. That time is usually reserved for knitting and mindless tv watching with JB. Last week however, I went down to the studio and sewed until 10 Monday and Tuesday. Wednesday I put the buttonholes in and didn't have the chance to start sewing until after 10 - but I was on a deadline and couldn't leave it - see what happens when you sew tired?
The jacket is a total and complete rip off of Carolyn's. Imitation being the highest form of flattery and all that - I do hope she knows how much she inspires me to stretch myself and do better. Next time I'll use 'good fabric.'Also thanks to Carolyn - JB is taking more than one photo. He's trying harder to make me comfortable and look good. We are experimenting with new places in the house to take pictures. The first 2 photos were taken in the arched doorway between our living spaces and kitchen. The last photo was taken on the landing - mid floors. JB was standing at the top trying to get all of me in the photo - he kept saying he could get my head or my shoes - but not both.
This outfit really needed taupe shoes - but I didn't have any. Nor do I own a pair of black pumps - can you believe that? The grey were better than the brown - so that's what I went with. I felt pretty and comfortable and confident in this outfit.
