I picked up two yards of this vintage fabric somewhere in Missouri before we moved and was newly inspired to make something with it when I found this tutorial again. I should've been unpacking but it was one of those days when I just needed to do something creative. It's the best-fitting article of clothing I've ever made for myself. I can't wait to make something in a black and white polka-dot or large buffalo plaid next!
I used the basic premise layed out in the tutorial about using a fitted top as a template and then adjusting a few things. I added more width to the skirt so I could do box pleats and bravely sewed in a zipper, wonky as it may look near the top.
I added lining in the top for a nicely finished look and made everything larger than I thought so I could take it in to fit nicely. If you're feeling brave I suggest trying it with inexpensive sheeting or in a miniature size (doll dress or for a little person) before trying it on something you paid a lot of money for. Once you work out the kinks you'll have a few new pieces in your spring/summer wardrobe!
I wore my dress for the first time on our family date to the Airplane Restaurant. It's in East Colorado Springs and features an airplane themed restaurant with a huge WW11 aircraft attached to it. We got a reservation to eat in the plane and the kids got to play around in the cockpit and peek out the airplane windows while we waited for our food. Oh, and the food! Delicious.
I had Brett snap these outside the restaurant. Ruby and Sebastian ran around throwing pinecones while they waited on us and the weather was just gorgeous.
Outfit Details: Dress, handmade by me. Shoes c/o ModCloth. Cardigan, Target. Turqouise ring, local trade shop. Belt, thrifted. Bag c/o ELF.
So blurry but that look of joy on Ruby's face is priceless.
One of the first dresses I ever made that I actually wore was a white, eyelet, strapless number that I think I gave away when I got pregnant with Sebastian. I wish I'd kept it for Ruby. I've made a few since then but I think I've finally figured out that it's worth doing it right the first time and not taking short cuts if I want to wear it out in public!
Oh, and I need to add a hook and eye to this one because my side zipper had totally come unzipped to the belt between these photos, the coffee shop, and home. Thank GOODNESS I was wearing a cardigan.
-Rachel
