Butterick Retro 4790

This project is another one of my very early projects. I made the Butterick Retro 4790 pattern in about October of last year.

 

I loved the wrap style, the full skirt and the fact it was marked very easy! 

Initially, I was going to make it in the style of Dolce & Gabbana use a black and white polka dot fabric for the outer layers and a leopard print for the inside. However, after much consideration, I decided on a plain black for the outside and leopard print for the inside. 

The dress itself was extremely easy. I used a black bias binding on the trim - everywhere except the hem - and it took forever. If I was to make it again, which I plan to, I'd think carefully about whether I'd use bias binding again.

I also had some problems with the front of the outside part. The flaps kind of curl up at the ends - like elf shoes - and overlap on one another, but it's not too much of a problem. I might cut some off so more leopard is visible.

I'm happy with the end result. I just wish the bias binding was a little better. 

Action shot! 

After wearing the dress to take the pictures, I'm impressed with how far my sewing has come since late last year!

My first dress

I started sewing lessons about 10 months ago after becoming so frustrated with in-store and online shopping. Often, I'd have a dress or skirt in mind and couldn't find anything similar to what I had imagined. I intended to make the millions of vintage inspired dresses that I had imagined - beautiful floral prints, in full-skirted, knee-length styles. And the very first dress I made is exactly that. Even though I finished this project last year, it's still one of my favourites.

After looking at patterns that  were a little too advanced for a beginner, I found a basic Kwik Sew pattern (Kwik Sew 3521). View B was exactly what I wanted, minus the belt.

 

The pattern was quite easy to make. The bodice, having never made one before this project, was quite easy to do, particularly with my sewing teacher's guidance. The skirt is simply gathered so it was straightforward.  All in all, I'd really recommend this pattern for a no-fuss basic dress. 

 

The fabric, still my favourite fabric find to date, was from Spotlight. It has a slight stretch and the colours couldn't be more complementary. I always think of the French Rivera when I look at it! 

When I came time to graduate university at the end of the last year, I decided to wear this dress to the ceremony. It was a burst of much needed colour under the black gown I had to wear! 

Current Project

My current project is the Butterick 5032 pattern.

 

I love all the variations included in the pattern, but I've decided to make the yellow dress. A photo of the finished piece from the Butterick site:

 

I've decided to do it in a dark, though still quite bright, purple linen fabric that I found in an op-shop. I think the style is perfect for work - I'm already planning on wearing it with a white short-sleeved, ruffle-front shirt underneath.

So far the pattern seems to be quite simple so, fingers crossed, it'll be finished in no time!