A Happy Belated Halloween to You!

There was no time to make something new for Halloween this year.  Well, I suppose there was, but my Gala Project exhausted any sewing energy I may have had in the last few days!  And besides, there are plenty of costumes in my closet that could use the attention.

I Love Lucy is one of my favorite television shows, and who doesn’t love Lucille Ball?!  Supremely talented, hysterically funny, and incredibly gorgeous. 

A few years ago, I decided I needed an I Love Lucy costume.  But which dress to choose?!  Blue polka dots seemed the most iconic (there are a few different versions that were worn on the show) so that was where I started.    I stopped by Britex during their annual in-store sale, which happens in October, and is the perfect excuse to go Halloween fabric shopping; I came home with some polka-dot yardage along with some white eyelet.

Vogue 8433 is a vintage pattern from the 1950s, which seemed incredibly appropriate.  There was not quite enough fabric to cut the pattern out, so I improvised the skirt and pleated in the excess until it fit the bodice waist.  And, of course, it needed a matching belt and buckle!

But something was still missing.

An apron seemed like the perfect addition.  I started with Butterick 6567, added a ruffle to the bottom edge, and messed about with some rick-rack trim.  

The pattern is fabulous!  I have made quite a few versions – they make fabulous gifts and are the perfect excuse to use adorable quilting cottons.

And Mr. Valentino had to be included.  He loves all the attention/treats he receives when he is dressed up!  For his jacket, I started with Simplicity 3939 for a bit of help with armhole placement, etc.  It might look familiar because I also used it for his Mad Hatter costume last year.  The tie and collar were easy enough – just a quick neck measurement was needed along with some cotton scraps.

Another Halloween, another excuse to wear a silly costume! 

Lucy

Dress:  Made by me, Vogue 8433

Apron:  Made by me, Butterick 6567

Petticoat:  Made by me

Earrings:  Thrifted

Necklace:  Banana Republic

Shoes:  Franco Sarto

Ricky

Jacket:  Made by me, Simplicity 3939 (with significant alterations)

Collar and Tie:  Made by me