I finished up a new dress for myself a few days ago. I had some doubts about how it was going to turn out as I neared completion, but I made a few adjustments, and I do like the final result.
Here it is:
This is the pattern I used. It was a pdf pattern I found on Etsy. I noticed that the seller does not currently have this pattern listed, but I am sure she could make it available if you are interested.
As you can see, the original dress is very “drapey”. Turns out, “drapey,” is not the best look on me. I think you have to be super skinny to pull this look off well.
For this Kimono Style Tunic dress, I cut the smallest top on the pattern, but after putting it together, I still needed to cut off around 4 inches from each sleeve and took out a lot of fabric from under the arms. I also went back around the waistline and eliminated some of the blousy-ness of the top.
After I was done, I decided it still looked a little nightgown-ish, so I added a little belt. To make the belt, I just cut two lengths of fabric 3.25 inches wide, added some iron-on interfacing to help keep the belt stiff, and sewed the fabric strips together, top stitching all the way around.
I found this fabric on sale at Joann’s. They had had their Silky prints on sale 50% off. This is a stretch Charmeuse Satin that is very wrinkle resistant. By the time I took this picture, I had been wearing the dress around the house all day, including lots of time sitting and even a little nap w/ the kids…
Faith, Trust, and a Little Pixie Dust says
Adorable! Great job. Thanks for linking it up to Fab Friday! Please do come back again next week.
Warmly, Michelle
Mandys Creative Corner says
Just gorgeous!!! I love these kind of dresses/tops!!! What a great inspiration to get off my keester and make myself one =)
Thanks!
Just Jaime says
Your alterations to the original design look great! Love the waistband!
blesid says
I think you are super skinny … so belt or no belt you look fabulous! I can only dream of sewing something for myself. Perhaps a tube top since I can only sew a straight line? Great job with your project, you've inspired me! jules
Andrea says
Looks great!
Tracy says
perfect breezy dress for summer! you did a great job! 🙂
Thanks for visiting me at Ascending Butterfly today!
XoXo
Tracy @ Ascending Butterfly
Angela Osborn says
Hello! Just found you through The Girl Creative. The kimono dress looks great on you!
Michelle says
It came out so cute!! Love it! I am visiting from Sumo's Sweet Stuff and I am a new follower!!! I hope you have a great week and that I see you around soon!!
Michelle
http://www.delicateconstruction.blogspot.com
gustosa giveaways says
thanks for stopping by at my blog.
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Twingle Mommy says
The dresss looks great! I wish I knew how to sew, I keep saying I'll learn when my twins go to prechool and I have more time on my hands.
Becky says
Very cute dress, and I agree with another commenter, your version looks much better! Thanks for the visit @ Life or Something Like It. New follower via GFC.
Alissabeth says
Honestly, I think you look great it in! The cinch at your waist makes you look lean. I like your version better than the picture!
New follower from Moose & Tater's Alexa hop.
http://www.faithfamilyfrugality.com
Cricket says
Oo Looks comfortable. Thanks for the follow, following back. Have a great day!
Brag All About It says
absolutely beautiful! stopping by from the alexa hop. Following you now too on GFC!
come by and say hellO!
http://www.bragallaboutit.com
Delaney says
This is very cute!
Nancy StylenDecorDeals says
Wow! That is gorgeous! Great job!
Thanks so much for hopping by!
Happily returning the follow!
Have a great weekend!
nancy
Deborah March says
OmiGOSH, this is just GORGEOUS!! Well done you!!