I'm a little embarrassed to say that I never got into it, since it was so beloved by its (apparently too small) fan base. I found the premise so tedious and clunky: the guy can touch people to make them come back to life but he's already touched the girl so he can never touch her again and blah blah blah.
But the dresses! Maybe I could give it another try for the dresses. As I was searching Google Images for "vintage red lace dress" the other day, this little stunner pictured above came up. Look at fab skirt! The streamlined bodice! The velvet ribbon belt! And, most of all, I want you to look at the red underlay, which is my primary example for bringing up this stellar use of red lace in dressmaking.
Now, I know you all were approximately 99.9% in favor of me using the skin-toned underlay on my red lace holiday dress. And believe me, I totally appreciate your advice. There were so many brilliant comments on the fit and proportions alone! You guys are the best.
But. I think I'm going to have to go rouge and go with the red lining. It just says "vintage" to me in a way that the nude doesn't. To state my case (and to avoid mutiny), I'm going to distract you with lovely frothy red dresses with red underlays. Look! Over there! Pretty dresses!
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| From Memphis Vintage |
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| From Proper Vintage Clothing |
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| From AppleCharlotte |
Thanks again for all your fantastic feedback! Next on the to-do list is to make another muslin of the revised pattern. To attempt to make up for my blatant disregard of your underlay feedback, I'm going to write in detail about the process of working with lace: the underlining, seam finishes, facings, etc. More to come!
P.S. I'm on the Twitters now! Let's, you know, follow each other and stuff. I'm @SewGertieSew.
Oh yes, those examples are gorgeous and seeing it in that light I change my first opinion! Now off to add you on twitter :) @suzysewingblog
ReplyDeleteThose are all really gorgeous. I especially love the scalloped neckline on the last two. Yours is going to look great!
ReplyDeleteRed over red does look more "vintage". Bottom line - you are the only one who can make the decision of what you actually want. Close your eyes and imagine yourself in that dress first with one lining, then the other. Only way to make the decision. It'll be beautiful no matter which route you choose to go.
ReplyDeleteLOVE red lace, I was at a preview of a vintage fair a while back and one of the girls was wearing the most gorgeous red lace dress
ReplyDeletehttp://lh4.ggpht.com/_aS7XjDR6cM0/S8XlVzILaPI/AAAAAAAACL8/eI3b2EUuRq0/s640/vintage%20032.jpg
Cant wait to see yours!
I'm totally with you on the red underlay. Michelle's dress looked designer rock'n'roll, but yours will look gorgeously vintage! Can't wait to see it.
ReplyDeleteThat Pushing Daisies dress is so cute! And although I voted for #1, think you're making the right choice. Looking up the Michelle Williams dress on Go Fug Yourself, it was interesting how many posters commented they were 'so over' lace on nude... Now I couldn't really give two figs about whether something is 'on trend' or not if I like it, but there is something so timeless about the red on red dresses you're showing us here, whereas I think I'd tire more easily of the lace on nude...
ReplyDeleteHow's that for a 360º reversal of opinion? And I see from other posters I'm not alone!
I couldn't decide myself on red vs. nude argument, but I'm glad you're going with red! And I loved Pushing Daisies, was so sad when it was canceled. I liked the cutesy plot, too, but seriously - give it one more try, only for the amazing dresses (and crazy sets!). It's free to watch instantly on Netflix.
ReplyDeleteOh Gertie!!!
ReplyDeleteThose dresses make me weep with longing! (Okay, maybe that's a little dramatic, but SERIOUSLY!!! That top dress is killing me)
Red underlay it is.
Actually, a 360º turn would take me right back where I started, wouldn't it? Duh... I'll just say 'a complete reversal of opinion' instead...
ReplyDeleteI cannot deny that you've made your case, and since the beauty of sewing is making your personal esthetic come to life, I'm glad our conflicting opinions gave you the resolve to go with what you really want! One thing that placates me about the dress with red lining is how sweet the lace looks as it twirls away from the opaque layer. So please consider having the skirt underlining fall free at the hem, not stitched together to fall as one. I even like the idea of the underlayer not being gathered at the waist, so the lace is gathered over it adding lovely additional textural difference.
ReplyDeleteLove the red underlay. It will be stunning on you!
ReplyDeleteOOOH love the first one!
ReplyDeleteEither will be beautiful, but the red on red will seem more accurately vintage. Why don't you make the lining a strapped top, so it appears as a slip top, for better lace visibility?
ReplyDeleteOh what fun! I actually made a vintage-inspired red lace wedding dress for someone once! That lace had scalloped edges as well that I took advantage of to great effect - so do make sure you do that!
ReplyDeleteI just had a thought about the lining. I didn't read through the comments of the other post, so I don't know if this was already mentioned. But- what about using a darker red for the lining? Still red, but also different so as to add depth and make the pattern of the lace pop. Oooh - and THEN if you used a colour of ribbon for the sash/belt that was the same as the lining it would really tie it all in together!
I don't know exactly how this would look, as I haven't tried it out. But do a stranger a favour and just try draping the lace over darker red colour or two that you like? Even if you don't like it as much for your dress, can you tell me if it's good or bad, so I know whether to try it myself? lol
One of my favorite dresses in the WORLD is a vintage red lace dress that I thrifted for $4!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely!!!! Go with the red. I can't wait to see how this one turns out! You shake down a seam quite well!
ReplyDeleteI loved that show. *Sob* I also love your sample dresses here. I'm planning a wedding and I'm thinking a champagne colored dress in any one of those styles would be perfect!
ReplyDeleteI'll probably be making my dress, I don't think the bridal stores will have anything like what I want...
Even though I did not chime in regarding your original question, I think the red is a great choice, and it will be such a fantastic color on you. And let me also leap slightly off topic to say that Bryan Fuller (the creator of Pushing Daisies)has come up with some of my all-time favorite television. Dead Like Me. Wonderfalls. Pushing Daisies. All canceled way too early, and to this day, I mourn each and every one of them. Oh, well. Watch for the Pushing Daisies Season 3 comic publishing in early 2011 (so not kidding; it's now a comic)!
ReplyDeleteStunning dresses!
ReplyDeleteBeing one of the few in favor of the red underlay, the dresses above embodies what I had in mind when voting for matching underlay; charming, beautiful, but not too obvious. And no nude effect! I love how the fabrics work together, instead of against each other.
Have fun sewing! I'll be looking forward to reading your thoughts on working with lace.
I love pushing daisies! The fashion is great!
ReplyDeleteI think your dress will turn out lovely. I suspect the red on red combo will look better in person than over the internet. (Besides, it's your dress so you should do what you want.)
I'm not usually swayed with my decisions, but you've swayed me on this one! I was all for the nude underlay, but having seen the re on red, I've changed my mind.
ReplyDeleteThe girl in the first picture is Anna Friel - we love her here in the UK as she's a "Good Northern Lass" down to earth etc.
I voted for the nude mostly becsue it was a closer match to your inspiration dress. However I appreciate your disctraction technique. They are some lovely dresses. I think if you get the colour match right then ted underlay will look great. Leaving the underlay shorter to showcase the lace borders will definitely be the way to go so your gorgeous lace stands out.
ReplyDeleteI forgot to 'vote' in your last post, but I actually did like the pink or red under your red lace.
ReplyDeleteThe nude is very 'in your face' contrast. Don't get me wrong, it was pretty it just has a very modern look to it...
I can't wait for your post about working with lace! I've never even considered buying it since I have no idea how to use it.
Happy Thanksgiving.
This online discussion has me thinking about what red lace is in stock at Vogue Fabrics. Didn't see much online...may have to go in the store to see what's there. Btw, anyone in Chicago - I'll be heading up a tour Black Friday at 11 a.m. in the Evanston (IL) store. You'll get a goodie bag if you come.
ReplyDeleteI think ultimately, as much as you love asking for feedback (and we love giving our opinions! ;), you need to do what you are comfortable with and what excites you the most! Trust me; I've done projects based on feedback before and I either loose steam, wonder after the fact if I would have liked the outcome I wanted more, or they totally bomb. So go with your gut; it'll look gorgeous either way! I mean, who can beat a classic red dress after all?
ReplyDeleteGah. Seeing this is making me want to watch Pushing Daisies for the clothes again. I used to watch it off and one when it was airing, but never really got into it fully. But I would totally steal all her clothes! haha!
Can't wait for your lace posts. I've really wanted to make a black lace dress lately; I saw a picture of a vintage one on someone's blog about two months ago and have been obsessed ever since. Although I might just dip my toe in with a blouse instead. ;) lol.
♥ Casey | blog
"make the sleeve and skirt underlays a little shorter than the lace to show off the borders of the Chantilly"
ReplyDeletePerfect! Good job on distracting me from, what was it? I don't recall.... The red underlining is so gorgeous!
Beautiful dresses.......
ReplyDeleteYou are right about the red over red. It would suit a more vintage look.
I don't know if it's just me, but when I searched for you on Twitter, I couldn't find you @sewgertiesew... :( (@paintedpisces is me)
ReplyDeleteI still think there should be a little contrast in the color of the lace and the color of the lining to show off your fantastic chantilly. I like brocadegoddess's suggestion of a slightly darker red.
ReplyDeleteWell I definitely got into Pushing Daisies. Also for the clothes! I watch very little TV (more of a movie girl) and I was really, really sad when that show was a casualty of the writers strike. Everything about it was adorable and Charlie's clothes still inspire me.
ReplyDeleteYour dress will be gorgeous.
mmm the red in the first pic is spectaculicious!
ReplyDeleteI think it's lady gaga's fault, but I always think "blood" when I see that red lace over nude combination. Maybe that's part of the appeal? [shrugs] I'm a MUCH bigger fan of the red on red, so I'm happy you're going that route!
ReplyDeleteYes, I used to watch that tv show, I realy like all the dresses and all the color, that red dress is just beutiful!! tha red is just what I want, I mean, like dark red, I donno how to say that color in english.
ReplyDeleteThe other dresses are very beutiful too, I can't wait to see yours.
Yes, I used to watch that tv show, I realy like all the dresses and all the color, that red dress is just beutiful!! tha red is just what I want, I mean, like dark red, I donno how to say that color in english.
ReplyDeleteThe other dresses are very beutiful too, I can't wait to see yours.
That dress changes my mind 100%! Wow! I thought I liked the nude underlining better, but I obviously hadn't imagined it well enough. All those dresses are beautiful. Good choice!
ReplyDeleteI love the Memphis Vintage dress! Such beautiful details. I think red-on-red would be fantastic, and can't wait to see what you come up with.
ReplyDeleteHi Gertie,
ReplyDeleteI am a new fan of your blog :-) Anyway, I think the stunner red-on-red dress is essentially the same dress as the one you chose in the first place, only the underlining is different. You knew what you wanted from the beginning, it seems :-) Good luck with the dress, I am looking forward to your follow-up posts!!!
Aw, I can't believe you didn't like Pushing Daisies before. Actually, I started watching it after it was canceled too, due to recommendations from Charmalade at Toast With Charmalade. It is indeed a most excellent show in that very kitschy way.
ReplyDeleteI think perhaps the overwhelming vote was for nude lining because you were aiming for something similar to Michelle William's dress which used a nude lining. But if that's not your ultimate look then choose a lining you love!
ReplyDeletePushing Daisies is one of my favorite shows of all time! And the clothes are FABULOUS. Overall, Chuck's style is to die for. Actually, the entire show was visually stunning. I was really sad that it ended at two seasons.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the red colored lining, by the way.
Love this red vintage look for the holidays. I'm a beginner to sewing so hopefully by next Christmas I'll be able to make a dress like this.
ReplyDeleteFair point. I'm convinced!
ReplyDeleteHoorah for red, red, red!
ReplyDeleteI was originally on Team Nude Underlay. Now that you've got Pushing Daisies involved I wholeheartedly switch allegiance to the red underlay. All the red underlay pictures look gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteI just hope that when your dress is finished you recreate the picture of Chuck with the pie.
I don't think I chimed in before, but if you take the Pushing Daisies angle with me you will always win. I didn't know about the show while it was on--Netflix kept shoving it at me as something I would love, so I finally gave in and watched it. All the way through both seasons, twice in as many months. You can't help but love that show just for the clothes and the set design, and it doesn't hurt that Lee Pace is made entirely of awesome.
ReplyDeleteI defiantly see where you're coming from with the red lace over the red, it will be a beautiful dress, do what you like, you'll be wearing it of course! And double points for the Chuck reference. And may I saw yay to the giving Pushing Daisies a chance, it's very charming and sweet, the writing is great, and the visuals (especially Chuck's wardrobe) is do die for :)
ReplyDeleteI love red lace, no embellishment. Chanel had an amazing red lace number in a recent collection.
ReplyDeleteI love that Pushing Daisies dress! I didn't comment the first time, but I agree that the red on red is the better choice. While I think Michelle Williams looks great, I also think she looks kinda naked, which is not my preferred look at holiday gatherings. You bought amazing lace, and I'm glad you will be showcasing it on the arms and hem. If you are looking to show a little more lace, I would recommend checking out Ivanka Trump's wedding dress - which I think is incredible
ReplyDeleteAt first I did not comment because I felt intimidated by the majority of posters voting for the nude underlay - I personally think Michelle´s dress looks cheap - in contrast of the glamorous yellow Vera Wang dress she wore years ago - with a red underlay your dress will look a thousand times classier - IMHO. xoxo fm Brasil
ReplyDeleteBeautiful example dresses! and I agree, I never got into the show either but I have been thinking about getting it from nexflix for the clothing!
ReplyDeleteMatching the underlay does look more vintage. The fashions I've seen from that period are very matchy, but in a good way. I also think it gives a little surprise pop for the lace. Beautiful choice!
ReplyDeletePushing Daisies was a big hit at my house. My family was very sad when they canceled it. It was a smart show with great acting and fashions.
Excellent idea! I was going to speak in favor of the red underlay, and those beautiful dresses definitely convinced me it was a good idea! The first two (from Memphis Vintage and Proper Vintage Clothing) are really gorgeous! I can't wait to see how yours turns out!
ReplyDeleteRed over red! I loved, loved that show. It sadly went under the radar but was so different than everything else. All the super fast verbal punning and wit--a lot of writers I know liked it. And the clothes were so cool. I loved the two aunties' style. I've been attempting to recreate a housecoat Chuck wore in the final episode.
ReplyDeleteRed is absolutely perfect. These are beautiful pictures and what a wonderful blog.
ReplyDeleteCheck out the amazing red dress in "The Party Dress Book" by Mary Adams. You'd love it! The entire book is very inspiring. It's about Mary’s process as a creative dressmaker, how she came to her art, different techniques, and it includes a pattern. She uses fabric in interesting and unusual ways, layering colors, piecing scraps, incorporating vintage fabrics.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely give "Pushing Daises" another try! [And think about checking out "The Closer," which I have belatedly gotten into via Netflix, to see Kyra Sedgwick's character in amazing vintage items (starting around season 2).]
ReplyDeleteLove the red underlining; I really go back and forth re nude lining under high-contrast lace, so I'm 100% behind your decision.
Though I have to admit that for me a tonal/analogous (wine, berry / amethyst, orange) lining would be pretty awesome too!
Happy creating....
Okay, I have to know: was going "rouge" on purpose as a pun on red, or did you mean to type "going rogue?
ReplyDeleteGorgeous! And I LOVED Pushing Daisies... such a different and fun show.
ReplyDeleteOh, this is so great! I have been reading through your blog now for a couple of days, and I just love it! You make great stuff and give me so much inspiration.
ReplyDeleteSuch a coincidence - I also made this dress last year! The lady who made my web site for me sent me this picture from Pushing Daisies and asked if I would make her something similar. She did a lot of work for me, so I decided to pay her back with the dress.
Too bad I never got any pictures of the dress in use. I only have a few pictures from the making of it:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/fragaria/4664009363/in/set-72157603817354710/
You just got a new fan - Cecilie in Bergen, Norway :)