A few weeks ago I noticed Halloween themed novelty cottons were on sale at JoAnn Fabrics. The one that caught my eye in the sales flyer was not at my local store, but a couple of the more whimsical prints they had on hand grabbed my attention.
In the end, I took home some of the Peanuts "Spooky Night" print. The cotton is certainly not the best quality in the world, but the stiff weight is perfect for a fit and flare silhouette.
And since I made myself a lovely Christmas themed frock last year using Simplicity 1459, I decided I should also have a Halloween version in my closet.
This is one of the only Simplicity patterns that I have sized up and I was also curious to see how my normal size would actually fit. The finished garment measurements had me slightly worried that a large Christmas meal would make wearing the fitted waist uncomfortable. It turns out, I should have stuck with my go-to sizing since the dress is slightly big through the bodice and shoulders. I could probably have used a bit of an FBA on this version, but in a long line bra with pointy cups, it works.
And then, the pattern does present some problems with a direction print. For the Christmas version, I didn't mind if some of the cardinals looked a little catawampus, but this print was going to look odd.
And the most obvious problem is the collar, right up front and center.
Luckily, there was some coordinating green cotton available. I was slightly concerned about that much yellow toned green next to my face, but this dress is not going to be worn constantly, and a "costume" doesn't have to suit my palette, it just has to make me happy.
I also thought that a solid would be a nice break from the super busy print.
But would a lone contrasting collar look out of place? I decided it would be nice to tie in the solid green with contrasting cuffs and belt, which I think turned out quite well.
The other major change I made was to forego the side zipper for a center front skirt opening. I only decided to make that change, however, after I started on the construction. Whoops.
So it's not perfect with the added placket, but it works.
And it definitely is much easier to get in and out of without the side zipper and I am going to have to figure out how to finesse that placket/snap closure construction for future button front/side zipper drafted patterns where you don't want buttons all the way down the skirt! But that's for another day.
Dress & Belt: Made by me, Simplicity 1459
Petticoat: Made by me, Vogue 4203
Shoes: Vince Camuto
Necklace: Banana Republic
The solid green contrast sets off the print beautifully: it gives the eye a place to rest and provides a perfect frame. I love this dress!
ReplyDeleteFabulous dress. Great job on the fit.
ReplyDelete[simmering, just simmering in the distance - you will get NO satisfaction for your antics by inciting a nail-spitting rant - not today, Laura Mae!]
ReplyDeleteThe dress is lovely - and the contrasting collar, cuffs, and belt are elegant. Only you would make such a classy dress for Halloween! But it's a clever idea for a work-appropriate outfit for situations where nobody else is dressing up. Hmm, I might "need" to make something like that! (Currently, I wear an 1870s dress to work...and slowly, others are starting to dress up). I also like how you've modified the skirt, so that it's flat at centre front and centre back, unlike the unflattering bulk of the original pattern. Suddenly, that pattern looks a LOT more interesting.
ReplyDeleteVery pretty dress! I love Charlie Brown & the entire Peanuts gang! ππ»π
ReplyDeleteMy mother used to sew. It brought back fond memories to see this dress, as I remembered how she used to sew my dresses. It is so nice to see the art of sewing is still around, really the best way to make a wardrobe, and just a note for the record, I remember all the dresses that she made me, but can't remember all the dresses I have bought, Dianne
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ReplyDeleteYou've created a fabulously fun and attractive dress! I too would worry about the green against the face, but in your photos it looks great, the solid contrast was a good choice. Just wearing it is sure to put a smile on everyone!
ReplyDeleteMe encanta, es muy divertido y de mi color favorito.
ReplyDeleteBESICOS.
Hi, I also decided against the side zipper and went for buttons up to the waist and then cam snaps from there down. Next time it will be cam snaps ALL the way.
ReplyDeleteWell done on a really classy version (even though it's a costume). It can be hard not to look over the top or miss the mark with strong fabrics but you got it spot on!