Saturday, March 16, 2013

Tea Roses



My new tea dress is complete!  The pattern was fantastic to work with - I love simply everything about this design.


I am becoming obsessed with drapey sleeves, evidence of which may be seen here, here, and here.  And I am afraid this is not the last you will see of the design feature on this blog!  


But this dress does not set the sleeves in a simple armscye.   The yoke pieces extend over the shoulder, which is fabulous!


Oh, and I forgot to mention in my previous post . . . this is the first pattern I have ever constructed with 3/8” seams.  I am not sure how I managed to go this long with all of the vintage patterns I use, but before this, 1/2" is the smallest seam allowance I have ever come across.  To be honest, I was a bit concerned with this pattern feature, but my rayon responded favorably, so all is well.  If I ever make this dress up again in a fabric that is fray-happy, I will have to reevaluate how I feel about narrow seams!


The linked button closure was also a first for me, and I am sure the technique will come in handy.  Just look how perfectly it works on a jacket!


This dress is definitely not for a beginner, but that is why I love it.  Any project that challenges me, or teaches me something new is always appreciated.


And this dress is so comfortable!  I think it will get quite a bit of wear.  Although, the color says late Summer/early Fall to me, so it may live in the closet for a few months . . .




Dress:  Made by me, McCall 8997
Shoes:  Colin Stuart for Victoria’s Secret
Earrings:  Gift
Hair Flower:  Made by me

7 comments:

  1. I love it! I understand what you mean about liking that it's not for beginning, I'm always happy when a dress or blouse is a little more advanced because it's a fun way to challenge myself - outwear can be so tiresome sometimes!
    Can we see a close up of the collar and the button closure?? thanks!

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  2. Strikingly, completely gorgeous dress. From the sophisticated floral print to the drapey sleeves (love them, too!) to the rich, autumnal colour palette, there isn't a single element I'm not crazy about here. Fabulous work on this very, very becoming, beautiful frock.

    ♥ Jessica

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  3. I am dying of envy! I'm just starting to sew my own clothing, and that is so behind my skill level! It's lovely!! Your website has definitely inspired me!

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  4. wow what pretty fabric! beautiful dress!

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  5. Beautifully taylored dress. I like the way it draps.

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