Vogue 1220 in black, finished

Here is the completed dress.  It is described as a loose-fitting mid-knee length dress with shawl pleated collar, waistline pleats and side slant pockets.  I've worn the orange dress several times since making it and each time I get complimented.  Naturally, I want another one.  It's relatively easy to make and the instructions are very good except for the the fly button closure.  It's vague in describing how it should be attached at the hem.  I had to rip a bit, insert it, then sew it closed again.  I used a lightweight stretch cotton.  If I ever make it again, I'll use a stretch linen or crepe, I think that will give it a more elegant look.   I've made two and that's enough for now. 

***Fabric alert!  I wore the dress today and it felt just fine, however; when I put it in the closet, I noticed that the cotton was a bit heavier weight in the orange (first) version than this black.  I prefer the heavier cotton stretch because it gives the dress more body and shows off the lines a bit more...f.y.i.

Purchased belt

Tie has a seam in the center as I didn't have enough fabric to cut in one piece, hope I don't get arrested.

My favorite custom necklace from www.seraphymdesigns.com

Vogue 1220 in Black

This Donna Karen dress is so easy to wear, you can't just have one.  If you haven't made this one yet, do yourself a favor and start one.  I want it in black and the weather has been mild, so I'll be wearing this for a while yet.

It's nice to work on a pattern that's already adjusted and is ready to go, and it's just as much fun to sew the second time around.

You'll notice my tailor tacks to mark the places that require precise stitching on the right side, I like them because they can be seen from both sides.

On another note, I am in love with Vogue 1268 and am trying to decide whether I want it in wool double knit or Ultrasuede.  I'm feeling pretty excited about the faux suede but vowed not to buy any more fabric.   Hold it!... Can Ultrasuede really be called a fabric?

Vogue 1220

Hats off to Donna Karen for this design!  This pretty shawl-collared shirtdress is feminine, easy to wear and fun to make.  I had doubts about the color, but it looks great on, and is perfect for summer.  I'm taking it on a NY trip and will wear it there.  I like the obi-belt, but I think I'll wear it with an ivory belt and shoes- it gives a nice orange sherbert look to it.  I added a lot of length to this one , I was very concerned that it would be too small, but it ended up being a little loose, which is okay with me.  I love that it has pockets and the tulip shaped skirt give it a vintage 60's look, that I just love.  I'm already thinking about making it again- one of the bloggers did it in a stable weave and it looks wonderful, I may do the same.

My tool for this project is Bernina's #63 foot.  I hear many sewers complain that these narrow hemmers never work, but I have had nothing but easy going with this one.  I run these long seams at full speed with no worries, and zip, it's done.  The key is to start the narrow hem correctly and feed the fabric straight into the foot.