7/24/06
Well, sorry about this, but the dress is already done, so no diary. I'm doing last minute sewing for Costume College, deciding to just whip some stuff together rather than try to finish any of my really complicated projects, many of which haven't even been started yet.
The Paris Promenade Dress (#261) by Folkwear is one of those patterns that has been sitting in my collection for a long time now. I've always loved the look of it, but wasn't sure when I'd get the time or inclination to make it up. Fortunately, my procrastination these past few months resulted in me picking up this pattern as something simple to put together for Costume College. It turned out to be a little more complicated than I thought it would be, but still much simpler than putting together anything that requires exact fitting or boning.
One caveat about the patter: it really seems like it should be a one-size-fits-most. All the sizes are rather large, as the dress is supposed to be sack-like with a sash to fit it. I wasn't sure how to fit it, as all measurements seemed way too big; I was afraid of getting lost in all that excess fabric. I finally decided to almost trust the pattern makers. While my measurements suggested making a large, I went for the medium instead, and love the results.
The construction is actually a bit tricky, but after reading the directions carefully and trying not to think about it too much, it came together nicely. I'm still not sure why it is constructed the way it is, but I'm trying not to let that drive me crazy. I won't even try to explain it because I'm sure I would sound crazy. All I will say is that the final dress looks absolutely darling, and I'm rather glad I procrastinated and didn't have time to finish my Georgian outfits.
Pictures coming soon.
9/21/06
This outfit was a great success at Costume College 2006. I brought my new wave iron, which produced the absolutely perfect hair waves without tons of fuss. I also managed to pick up a dashing teens hat to wear with it.
Also, here is a picture of mom's adorable little teens dress.