Ever since I was given some fabulous beaded trims, I have been trying to think of a project where I can put them to good use! The most obvious choice is a 1960s silhouette, so I dug around in my stash of vintage patterns and found this one.
But before I started cutting into my precious trim, making up a wearable muslin was a must. And I am glad I did.
I really didn't have enough of this directional print to cut everything out, but I managed by piecing the sleeves. With the busy print, it's not very noticeable.
And, it turns out, I probably did have enough yardage since the pattern has massive seam allowances included. That, or this dress was drafted for something over six feet tall! I took about 3 inches off of the sleeves and almost as much off the skirt hem.
Which is crazy!
The design is obviously meant to sit above the knee, and it is not possible to hem a flared skirt with such a deep hem, so I cannot figure out why there was so much extra length in both the sleeves and body of the dress. I also usually cut a 34 bust, so this dress came out a little large through the shoulders. The body of the dress was also oversized, but that probably has more to do with the silhouette than the sizing.
I took in the shoulders slightly which made the dress fit a little better, but I am still not in love with the dress. It is incredibly comfortable to wear, but I don't think I have found something I will be making again (especially not with my fabulous beaded trim!).
So I have a new style of dress to add to my closet, but I am still on the lookout for a fabulous 1960s dress worthy of bedazzling. I know she's out there . . . I just have to keep looking!
Dress: Made by me, McCalls 8766
Shoes: Royal Vintage Shoes "Alice Oxfords"
Necklace & Bracelet: Vintage, from Mom
I have to agree with your review. I think a different style would be better. I do love your shoes though!
ReplyDeleteI think you're someone who needs a waistline. I was actually surprised that you made this style, it is so different for you.
ReplyDeleteAgreed, a waistline, along with interesting sleeves, and a full skirt. Laura Mae, you are best served by some sort of contour or cling (my one and only reference to your knitting). This trapeze pattern is not a high card in the deck of designs. If you are sticking with the 60s, simply ask yourself, "What would Julie Christie wear?" (you are more of a Julie Christie, than a Barbara Feldon, just sayin').
DeleteDid the pattern include adding shoulder pads? I found that some of the 1960s patterns did not hang correctly without adding in the shoulder pads.
ReplyDeleteHere is a fun pattern. You might be able to use some of the flower beaded trim on the neckline. https://www.etsy.com/listing/681507977/vintage-1960s-simplicity-7684-womens?ref=user_profile&frs=1
ReplyDeleteWhat about this jacket? Some beaded trim around the neckline and down the front would look really cute. https://www.etsy.com/listing/555135837/simplicity-7087-misses-dress-blouse?show_sold_out_detail=1&frs=1
ReplyDeleteMy dear mother wore full-skirted shirtwaist dresses throughout much of the 1960s -- she had a tiny waist, and did not like to hide her figure in shifts and chemises.
ReplyDeleteMany of her dresses had fancy embroidery down the button bands, on the collars, and on the cuffs. Any deep borders on skirt bottoms in rtw dresses were chopped right off when she re-hemmed them (she's quite short). You might consider making your favorite silhouette in a 60s-style print, then flinging beaded trim all over it.
Where did you get your fabulous shoes?
ReplyDelete