I removed the gathers in the skirt (which is another reason it is now more snug on my rear) and used that fabric to add a 2-1/2" band at the hem. I interfaced the strip with a fusible and left it raw-edged. The interfacing adds body so the unfinished edge won't curl and also weight to get every possible bit of length from the skirt. It now hits right at my knee, which is my preferred skirt/dress length.
This is the bodice underlayer. You can see that the facing is turned to the outside to create a blended modesty panel, although you could also change things up a bit by using a contrast. The last thing for me to finish this dress today was to sew the darts I had pinned out a few weeks ago. Without them, the underlayer neckline flops and gapes badly. Something to be aware of should you make this dress as I've read a couple of reviews that also mention the problem.
If the Spanx is magic tomorrow, I may go ahead and wear this. Otherwise, it will remain in a holding pattern until I drop 5.
Some great saves there. Hope it does work into rotation. It is lovely and the fabric gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous fabric, beautiful dress. Sciatica is the worst. Two years ago I had a literally crippling episode of sciatica. I saw a physiotherapist, and I do the prescribed stretches religiously. It actually worked for me, and I'm significantly older than you! So, my dear, If you haven't seen a good physio yet, please do it!
ReplyDeleteNice dress! I feel your pain with the sciatica, it is no fun and hard to get relief. Mine seems to flair up when I have to drive long distances.
ReplyDeleteLove this fabric.
ReplyDeleteIt's a great fabric. Hope the 5 goes fast so you can enjoy it.
ReplyDeleteI feel for you. I hate how it seems that as soon as I am able to get an outfit done, it no longer fits properly. It would certainly help if I could get my weight under control, that is for sure.
ReplyDeleteDress looks good, I have a rtw one with a similar hem treatment. I am needing to lose the recently gained 5 as well. :/ Good luck with that as well as the career stuff.
ReplyDeleteI love the summer colors!
ReplyDeleteSpanx are my friend too, but I still have a large garment pile labeled "in 5lbs"
Yet another lovely dress! If I could pick from your closet, my husband wouldn't be downstairs swearing at me on Sunday mornings when I can't find anything to wear to church. He is much less comfortable sneaking in during the opening hymn than I am...
ReplyDeleteIs that modesty panel something that you added to the Butterick pattern or was it already there? It's a great idea; I have several tops with draped necklines like this and I hate how I can't lean forward in them without spilling my boobies!
I have this pattern on the list, so thank you for the tip on the floppy underlayer. I had that happen on a Burda, of all things, and it sucked.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get to feeling better soon! Back pain is totally the worst. I hope you can find some relief.
I love how you made changes to make this work for you. Five pounds: *poof* go away! Hope you're feeling better in all ways.
ReplyDeleteWe all go through some times of stress eating. It will get better and then you will be worried that your dress is loose and baggy. I love the dress. I think that the pattern is bright and cheery and it is just wonderful.
ReplyDeletePhD by Publication Programs