Mama liked the roses…

Each spring and fall I feature ways to re-create the top runway looks (past recreations can be found herehere, here and here through sewing and some accessory purchases.  Some of the hottest trends for spring and summer2019 include 1940’s and 1970’s inspired clothing, sundresses, jumpsuits, patchwork, and bold florals ( a perennial favorite of mine).

I am a sucker for a good dress so the Apiece Apart midi captured my attention, as it reminds me of a 1940’s English garden party frock. The Elie Tahari wrap dress is a classic design which never gets old and always flatters the wearer regardless of size.

Both dresses would be quite easy to make, requiring only minor pattern changes prior to sewing to achieve optimal effect.  To make the blue-floral midi begin with the Butterick B6451 Version A dress pattern but purchase enough extra fabric for an additional midi skirt. Sew the side seams on each skirt, then baste both pieces together at the waist to create one double-tiered piece. From there, continue to follow the sewing directions to make your own version of the two-tiered peasant midi dress.

To replicate the Elie Tahari wrap dress, use the Butterick B6554 Version B pattern, and follow the directions until it gets to the tie part. Replace the waist ties with another closure of your choice (buttons and hook-and-eyes come to mind). Purchase extra fabric to make a 2-3 inch wide belt long enough to wrap around your torso twice with ample ends and voila! Runway re-created x 2. Happy sewing – happy spring.

Apiece Apart
Pattern | Fabric | Sandal

Elie Tahari
Pattern | Fabric 1 | Fabric 2 | Sandal

Finishing Touches
Nail Polish | Lip Gloss | Earrings

*Mama Liked the Roses – Elvis Presley

Dear Mr. Fantasy…

fantasy1springinbloom

Every spring I get inspired by the first vibrant colors of the season.  If I could design and fabricate my own textiles, and had the time to draft a pattern to make a sexy feminine frock from said fabric, accompanied by an unlimited pocketbook to supplement the dress with eye-catching and unique accessories…well, then ‘Fashion Fantasy  #1 – Spring in Bloom’ would become my reality.

The Grey Goddess Fabric and Dress  |  Charlotte Olympia ‘First Class’ Clutch  |  Sam Edelman ‘Dayna’ Suede Lace-up Pumps  |   Ippolita ‘Wonderland’ Teardrop Doublet Earrings