I was doing some ‘window shopping’ aka browsing on my phone at an online retailer (I think it was Revolve, love them!) and I saw a gorgeous RTW lace dress. What I love about sewing is I can create what I want, and usually for a lot less than the designer costs. Sewing really allows me to become the designer by choosing my cut and fabric choices.
I saw this gingham floral fabric from my favorite Ebay fabric seller and I knew I just had to have it. As soon the fabric arrived and I finished my last sewing project it was onto this dress! I decided on M7719 for my dress since it has so many great mix and match options. I already have plans for using this versatile pattern for another dress!
For the construction, I used bodice 3 and the straight skirt (5). Based off my RTW inspo dress I knew I was going to need to extend the bodice, eliminate the waistband, shorten the skirt and add a ruffle. I added 1.5in to the top of the bodice and 1in to the bottom, extending the darts on the bottom. Props to all my sewing friends who are great at pattern hacking/pattern making, that is a true skill!
I opted for 1 in shoulder straps. This pattern also called for an invisible zip which was the first one I have put in. That was an exciting skill to learn, I don’t have an invisible zip foot so I just used my regular zip foot. The invisible zip wasn’t too hard to install, just a bit of finessing, but I do think I will get an invisible zip sewing head attachment.
I just love that ruffle detail! For the construction of the ruffle I was inspired by a vogue pattern dress that doubled perimeter of the base of the skirt for the length of the ruffle. So basically my skirt measured 40in at the bottom so I opted for an 80in length ruffle. I cut two fabric pieces for the ruffle that each measured 12in x 40in.
I am so pleased with how this dress turned out! It feels wonderful to imagine a something and bring it to life. Now I am just counting down the days to spring so I can actually wear this cute dress!
