Monday, June 2, 2014

Three dresses

In the past two weeks I did something I’ve never done before: sewing 3 dresses using the same pattern. It’s Vpgue 1809, a Donna Karan pattern (out of print).

This all started when I was clearing out my sewing room and sorting my patterns. I stumbled upon this pattern with all the pattern pieces ready to cut. I was planning a sheath dress anyhow so the decision to use this pattern was easily made. After the first one two followed.

The dress was one of the first patterns I blogged about (June 2007). That version is long gone from my closet. I did not like the fabric a lot and have not worn it often. I made it longer this time, and lowered the neckline a bit (on the last two a little more than on the first one). Otherwise no changes, which is good after 7 years.

This was the first one I made, the fabric is linen, bought at a fabric market here in The Netherlands. After finishing it I immediately wore it the next day and it felt very comfortable.

Another linen version, this fabric bought in a shop. Very summery.

The last one was made in cotton, bought in Paris on my trip with sewing friends. Sorry for the face in this set. A smile would have made a difference.
The fabric was a bit thin and it took me a lot of time to match the invisible zipper. Even basted it was a little off after sewing and I had to unpick twice.

I was inspired to use this fabric by Linda’s blog where she posted about this outfit.

image

A red jacket is still on the “to sew” list, for the time being combined with a red cardigan.

 

All dresses are lined, using the full pattern for the lining and sewing the facings on the lining.

 

lining with facing

The zipper is inserted by machine, also the lining is sewn by machine. This method is described by Amy from Sewaholic here.

Think that’s my share of dresses for this season. I made 4 dresses, which is certainly more than usual for me.

16 comments:

  1. I love all three! But I especially love the black and white one! What a great use of a pattern...but seriously only four dresses for the season! ;)

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  2. All three of these are fabulous and look perfect for the summer months.

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  3. they all look great - but my vote is for the black & white and it looks wonderful with the red cardi and shoes, so I think a red jackets has to be on your sewing list

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  4. They are all beautiful. I love the summery florals.

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  5. These are all great. I really really love the graphic version you posted last. And, thanks for the Sewaholic referral. I was just thinking I need a better way of sewing my zips into lined dresses!

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  6. Summer dresses are great sewing projects! All fabulous.

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  7. these are so lovely! the blue floral linen one is my favorite- it looks like a really wearable summer dress.

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  8. I don't think you can ever have too many summer sheath dresses. These are all very pretty. Nice work, Sigrid.

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  9. I like all three. I am seeing a lot of floral print dresses in stores, in catalogs and online. The black and white dress is truly a great use of fabric. Very flattering and glad my post of the red, black and white garments was an inspiration for the dress and red cardigan.

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  10. Gorgeous - now I know why you said you were sewing up a storm! I do like the floral ones, they are super summery.
    Do you think that lining and facing makes a big difference, rather than just one or the other? Was this recommended on your Susan Khalje pattern? Also, did you alter the neckline at all? The neckline on the pattern looks to be a more exaggerated boat neck than your dresses - both lovely, just look a bit different, although I can't see the pattern that well.

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  11. Lovely dresses and great pictures. I enjoy seeing your work.

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  12. The fabric makes them look quite different from each other. I like them all but I especially like the black and white geometric print. The fit is really wonderful.

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  13. These dresses look stunning on you. How wonderful to have such a fabulous addition to your wardrobe in just one week!

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  14. Love your dresses! Now you have a whole new wardrobe. :)

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  15. I remember this pattern! I don't know if I still have it or not. I think I made the first dress about 15 years ago.
    Your versions are beautiful, perfect for summer wardrobe!

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