Omg I love this dress.
As part of my me-made-may pledge I wanted to make and wear 2 dresses from stash, this fabric comes from a project over 2 years old. The bodice was too big, and I didn't really know how to fix it, so it just sat in my to be fixed pile forever. It was a Kwik Sew pattern, which was really cute but it was just falling off my shoulders and gaping everywhere.
So I decided I wanted to make the shirtdress from Gertie's book for a future project, and this would make the perfect test run! The fabric is a linen with a little bit of textured weave in it, I don't remember where I got it from, the buttons were super cute and from M&J, the perfect match. I had just enough extra fabric to make the bodice, and I left the skirt intact from the kwik sew pattern. I had to piece together the back, there wasn't enough to cut it on the fold.
The only thing I had to change about Gertie's pattern was the back piece. She has the back and the skirt as one long piece but since I had the skirt I just cut it off at the bodice, and sewed it normally. What I love most about this pattern is the SHIRRING. It was so fun to watch the elastic shrink up when I steamed it. I can't wait to do it again. This dress is super comfortable, it really is perfect for work. I love how vintage inspired it came out, like it could really be a vintage dress! This is my third? project from Gertie's New Book for Better Sewing, and if you haven't gotten it yet, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!!! It's simply marvelous. I am planning my the sundress pattern as you read this.
I can't wait to make another one! (I've been eyeing up this embroidered chambray at Fabricland)
I've been considering getting Gertie's book, so I should just take the plunge. Your shirt dress is super cute and looks cool and comfy for summer. I am jealous of all the great dresses you showcased in your MMM week last week! They will serve as inspiration for me to get my butt in gear!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ashley! So sweet that I am an inspiration, but don't be jealous, get sewin'!
DeleteOh, I love it! I bought the book on pre-order, but have yet to make a thing out of it! I really need to change that!
ReplyDeleteYou totally need to change that!
DeleteFabulous!! Fabulous!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous dress! I just got Gertie's book yesterday. Can't wait to use the patterns.
ReplyDeleteI'm working on my 5th from the book now!
Deletesuper cute! my goal is to sew through the book. im novice, not very good, and have multiple fitting issues, so so far my sewing career is quite painful BUT i am making the portrait blouse (just have one more sleeve to finish and hem and zipper)out of left over fabric as a kind of wearable muslin and so far i think it's going to fit just right. i have material for two more of those that i'm going to make right away if this one works. next up, probably the first skirt.
ReplyDeletei really love seeing all the beautiful dresses and clothes you make up !
woohoo can't wait to see the blouse! thanks so much
DeleteThis looks great! I checked Gertie's book out from the library when it first came out, but never got around to buying it. I probably should though - the patterns are all so pretty!
ReplyDeleteOMG I want to come all over that dress
ReplyDelete