Friday, August 30, 2013

Skirt Options for the Leather Accent Dress

It's on its way! I was having trouble deciding what style leather dress to make for an upcoming performance (girly or babydoll)--so I made muslins of both of them. I think the fuller-skirted version will be best for playing music (I'm on the drums for one song, so I can tuck the skirt between my legs to avoid flashing everyone). But! I'm going to make the babydoll version next, since I loved it too. Why limit myself to one dress? I never have before, so why start now?!

Anyway, more decisions! Now I'm having trouble deciding what fabric to use for the skirt of the dress. I was originally thinking this lace.


Maybe with a black lining. 


But it didn't totally wow me. So I tried sequins.

Not feeling it. So I tried metallic lace.
Definitely a contender! Finally I draped some tartan, for a Westwoodian vibe.

I'm digging that one too! It speaks to my beloved Grunge era, and has more of a color pop for stage presence, too.

I'm loving the last two, but can't really decide. Opinions, anyone?

Thanks, friends!

UPDATE! I tried the tartan on the bias too, thanks to some reader feedback. 


P.S. I will give construction notes in an upcoming post.

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128 comments:

  1. KelieAugust 30, 2013 at 11:51 AM

    I like the first one, but maybe with a colored (or skin colored) lining, instead of black. There's something beautiful about that lace. I don't like the plaid. It looks a little too school-girl uniform to me...

    ReplyDelete
  2. SaraAugust 30, 2013 at 11:52 AM

    Oh my gosh I can't decide between the last two either! Maybe flip a coin?

    ReplyDelete
  3. welldressedmakerAugust 30, 2013 at 11:52 AM

    definitely loving the grungier look but also the lace in the first option but over black!

    ReplyDelete
  4. MariahAugust 30, 2013 at 11:53 AM

    I really like the plaid. It isn't my typical choice, but the combo speaks to me. The silver lace is also nice, too.

    ReplyDelete
  5. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 11:54 AM

    I like the plaid the best

    ReplyDelete
  6. LittleChickenAugust 30, 2013 at 11:54 AM

    I agree with Kelie - a bright lining under the first lace would look cool. I like the metallic lace too x

    ReplyDelete
  7. Andrea @ Mouse in My PocketAugust 30, 2013 at 11:56 AM

    what happens is you layer the silver lace over the tartan?

    ReplyDelete
  8. CaboritaAugust 30, 2013 at 11:57 AM

    I like the black lining under the lace.

    ReplyDelete
  9. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 11:57 AM

    Love the tartan! Go with it!

    ReplyDelete
  10. KathrynAugust 30, 2013 at 11:58 AM

    Oh, both great choices! I think I'd go with the lace, personally :) Can't wait to see the finished result!

    ReplyDelete
  11. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 11:59 AM

    the tartan on the bias.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. GertieAugust 30, 2013 at 12:23 PM

      I gave it a shot and updated the post! It looks rad!

      Delete
    2. R.M. JacksonAugust 30, 2013 at 1:09 PM

      Third-ed. LOL!

      Delete
    3. rubelinAugust 30, 2013 at 5:08 PM

      bias tartan!!

      I also love the metallic lace but it would work on the babydoll style, too!

      Delete
    4. 2peachesLAAugust 30, 2013 at 8:52 PM

      That is a winner for sure!!

      Delete
    5. AnonymousSeptember 5, 2013 at 12:06 PM

      I like the tartan on the bias, but maybe you could mix in black tulle/lace for the sides so you have a little bit of that look from the Alice and Olivia dress

      Delete
  12. uglybeatAugust 30, 2013 at 12:00 PM

    I like the first lace option with a nude or light pink lining. Very vintage and shows off that beautiful lace!

    ReplyDelete
  13. TravelGoddessAugust 30, 2013 at 12:00 PM

    I like the silver lace over an eye popping color and the tartan.

    ReplyDelete
  14. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 12:04 PM

    Tartan! It's unexpected and especially fall-appropriate.

    ReplyDelete
  15. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 12:05 PM

    I'd go metallic lace, but the tartan would look great on you....? Jude.x

    ReplyDelete
  16. SickofitcindyAugust 30, 2013 at 12:11 PM

    The plaid looks more rock and roll to me

    ReplyDelete
  17. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 12:11 PM

    For the purpose you have in mind, I think the tartan one. However, if you want to add a further girly touch, I like the metallic lace. For the music band purposes. I think the first two options are a bit more cleaner and classier for a band.
    Jin

    ReplyDelete
  18. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 12:12 PM

    Tartan on bias! You will feel SO badass!

    ReplyDelete
  19. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 12:13 PM

    I like number one - it looks lighter, not so heavy. Makes a great contrast with the leather. I'm good with the white lining but it would be fun to see what a color underneath would look like.

    ReplyDelete
  20. AngelaAugust 30, 2013 at 12:14 PM

    I like the Plaids most

    ReplyDelete
  21. sandysewinAugust 30, 2013 at 12:17 PM

    I like the black lace with the black underling, but perhaps it's a bit too safe for what you're looking for. What about a hot pink lining, to match your hair?

    The tartan is definitely edgy, especially if you pair it with some cool black boots. My favorite though, is the metallic lace.

    ReplyDelete
  22. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 12:23 PM

    I'm all about the tartan, add in a kilt pin and some leather kilt buckles and you'll rock (not that you don't now)!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Julia ScarlettAugust 30, 2013 at 12:30 PM

    The tartan on the bias looks awesome! As you say, very Westwood!

    ReplyDelete
  24. KyrieAugust 30, 2013 at 12:31 PM

    Metallic lace for sure!

    ReplyDelete
  25. Tina D.August 30, 2013 at 12:31 PM

    My inner 90s speaks: tartan! Is that Butterick 4443 bodice I see?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. GertieAugust 30, 2013 at 12:32 PM

      Why, yes it is! Good eye! I lowered the neckline a bit though.

      Delete
    2. Tina D.August 30, 2013 at 2:07 PM

      I'm going to make a Halloween-y dress with it! I have no idea why I only bought two yards of a Tula Pink fabric, but it's a great pattern cuz it takes only two yards!

      Also, it's more 90s to cut it straight on the grain, so if you're going for 90s that's my vote. The bias gives it a softer, more easily wearable line.

      Delete
  26. Janine W.August 30, 2013 at 12:34 PM

    Tartan on the Bias!

    ReplyDelete
  27. NicoleAugust 30, 2013 at 12:36 PM

    I'm LOVING the tartan! In fact, I'm tempted to try to make one for myself - it looks very sleek and modern but at the same time also very grunge.

    ReplyDelete
  28. CarolineAugust 30, 2013 at 12:44 PM

    Definately the bias tartan. Let you inner-Viv Westwood rock out in that combo!!

    ReplyDelete
  29. docksjoAugust 30, 2013 at 12:48 PM

    really like the second one black lace with black lining.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LizAugust 30, 2013 at 1:24 PM

      Me too! I'm thinking I need to make something very similar.

      Delete
  30. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 12:56 PM

    Love the tartan, or the first lace but with a light underlay.
    BTW, Gertie, I thought of you yesterday when I picked up an original copy of Simplicity 7072 at my local Value Village (another Jiffy shift), for 69 cents. It was 65c brand new apparently! I think I'm going to emulate you, and make it up out of some plaid cotton seersucker I picked up at Goodwill recently.

    ReplyDelete
  31. lsaspaceyAugust 30, 2013 at 12:57 PM

    Tartan, but not on the bias! I just think it makes more of an impact that way.

    ReplyDelete
  32. NaomiAugust 30, 2013 at 1:11 PM

    The metallic lace doesn't look right- too girly. Bias tartan looks really cool, but I think the first lace with black lining will look the most chic. Such a great idea!

    ReplyDelete
  33. NaomiAugust 30, 2013 at 1:12 PM

    The metallic lace doesn't look right- too girly. Bias tartan looks really cool, but I think the first lace with black lining will look the most chic. Such a great idea!

    ReplyDelete
  34. MelissaAugust 30, 2013 at 1:32 PM

    Hate the metallic lace, just doesn't go with the leather. Love the bias cut tartan!

    ReplyDelete
  35. GAugust 30, 2013 at 1:40 PM

    Ooooh! Tartan on the bias! Or, the black lace, but with a bright, bold colored lining fabric, maybe lime?

    ReplyDelete
  36. CarringtonMadeAugust 30, 2013 at 1:43 PM

    Definitely love the the plaid on the bias!! I'm also loving the little leather sleeve, especially the style. Such a great detail!!

    ReplyDelete
  37. linnea-mariaAugust 30, 2013 at 1:45 PM

    Voting for the tartan! It works perfectly with the patent leather. :) But it's difficult to figure out if it should be on the grain or the bias, both looks good.

    ReplyDelete
  38. CherylAugust 30, 2013 at 1:53 PM

    I LOVE the bias tartan. The look is great and the bias is more figure flattering.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Alicia in IndyAugust 30, 2013 at 1:55 PM

    I like the tartan. Something makes me dig it more when it is not on the bias. I guess it feels more grungy that way. But either would be cute.

    ReplyDelete
  40. KarenAugust 30, 2013 at 1:57 PM

    Tartan on the bias gets my vote too! Awesomeness.

    ReplyDelete
  41. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 2:20 PM

    Why not make the skirt all leather?

    ReplyDelete
  42. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 2:22 PM

    Why not make the skirt all leather?

    ReplyDelete
  43. ElspethAugust 30, 2013 at 2:26 PM

    Tartan tartan tartan. For sure. I've really come to like it of late. Which is weird - it's hard to pull off tartan here (Scotland!) without looking a bit y'know... touristy.

    ReplyDelete
  44. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 2:41 PM

    Grunge look... I think you have to go with the Tartan!!! I LOVE IT! The pop of color is so surprising, I really think it works the best. Can't wait to see the final look.

    ReplyDelete
  45. elineAugust 30, 2013 at 2:59 PM

    The tartan on the bias! I love it :-D

    ReplyDelete
  46. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 3:07 PM

    The Tartan on bias one is awesome!

    ReplyDelete
  47. pennAugust 30, 2013 at 3:11 PM

    Black lace over black lining won't read on stage (trust me, I'm a costume designer & I've made that mistake myself) I'd go plaid, or maybe black lace over a pink lining to match the hair

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownSeptember 7, 2013 at 10:37 PM

      Completely AGREE. It was the first thing I thought when I saw it, too.

      Delete
  48. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 3:13 PM

    I like the sequins and tartan. The laces are definitely not working for me

    ReplyDelete
  49. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 3:33 PM

    Plaid on the bias, without doubt.

    ReplyDelete
  50. kazoomAugust 30, 2013 at 3:46 PM

    LOVE the tartan on the bias! Do we get a video of the performance?

    ReplyDelete
  51. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 3:58 PM

    First lace with blue lining! Same color as the blue from the tartan, best of both options!

    ReplyDelete
  52. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 3:59 PM

    The tartan, no contest. And I think I might have to steal this idea, because I am in love!

    ReplyDelete
  53. BryAugust 30, 2013 at 4:01 PM

    I like the tartan on the straight grain.

    ReplyDelete
  54. Potted FarmAugust 30, 2013 at 4:39 PM

    I am definitely not cool enough to pull off either of those amazing skirts, but I LOVE the leather details and would like this as just an LBD. Can't wait to see how you put it together.

    ReplyDelete
  55. WendyAugust 30, 2013 at 4:46 PM

    I absolutely love the TARTAN on the bias!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  56. JessicaAugust 30, 2013 at 4:56 PM

    Definitely the tartan on the bias! It is awesome!

    ReplyDelete
  57. motorharpAugust 30, 2013 at 5:05 PM

    Oooh, try the lace over the tartan.

    ReplyDelete
  58. RedAugust 30, 2013 at 5:20 PM

    I vote the tartan on the bias

    ReplyDelete
  59. CarleeAugust 30, 2013 at 5:48 PM

    Definitely tartan!

    ReplyDelete
  60. UnknownAugust 30, 2013 at 5:49 PM

    Between the metallic lace and the tartan, most definitely the tartan. Personally I like it better not on the bias though!

    ReplyDelete
  61. Leah zAugust 30, 2013 at 6:08 PM

    tartan on the bias...

    ReplyDelete
  62. alainaAugust 30, 2013 at 6:44 PM

    Being a fan of Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series, I vote for the purple tartan but not on the bias. You will look awesome on the drums !!
    Alaina of Gill

    ReplyDelete
  63. LandgirlAugust 30, 2013 at 7:03 PM


    Of the lot the Tartan bais is the most sexy and goes very well with the tops section. The rest look like two different garments tied together.

    ReplyDelete
  64. Diana BAugust 30, 2013 at 7:05 PM

    My favorite is the tartan on the bias! It's def a more grunge look, but prettier and more tailored.

    ReplyDelete
  65. Jane EliseAugust 30, 2013 at 7:13 PM

    I'm just laughing at so many opinions and imagining Gertie reading the comments going 'yes, tartan, no wait lace, no...metallic,' how do you decide? LOL Lots of fun. I'll throw in my opinion. Tartan for this one and lace baby doll.

    ReplyDelete
  66. ColleenAugust 30, 2013 at 7:20 PM

    Tartan. Tartan on the bias or Tartan straight up. Tartan would look best with a ukelele and pink hair. I like it. Tartan.

    ReplyDelete
  67. AnonymousAugust 30, 2013 at 7:23 PM

    I like the tartan not on bias for a performance dress. Second choice is the metallic lace.

    ReplyDelete
  68. TwirlDesignsAugust 30, 2013 at 7:31 PM

    Yes to the tartan on the bias! It looks great!!!

    ReplyDelete
  69. MelAugust 30, 2013 at 8:14 PM

    Tartan not on the bias - rocks it for me!

    ReplyDelete
  70. SarahAugust 30, 2013 at 9:08 PM

    Bias Tartan, definitely :)

    ReplyDelete
  71. GabrielleAugust 30, 2013 at 9:21 PM

    My vote is for the tartan on the bias - I think it'd be totally rock-chick! The non-tartan options are lovely but I think better suited to off-stage...

    ReplyDelete
  72. GabrielleAugust 30, 2013 at 9:22 PM

    My vote is for the tartan on the bias - I think it'd be totally rock-chick! The non-tartan options are lovely but I think better suited to off-stage...

    ReplyDelete
  73. LaurenAugust 30, 2013 at 9:55 PM

    Tartan, but NOT on the bias. It is nicer on the eye and ties in the black and blue better.

    ReplyDelete
  74. KendinDik.ComAugust 31, 2013 at 1:13 AM

    Definitely the last one! ;)
    Luv!
    http://kendindik.com

    ReplyDelete
  75. IaurahaAugust 31, 2013 at 1:28 AM

    Holy mackarel! My eyes were following a darned tennis match of opinions in the comments! I vote tartan on the bias for this one and metallic lace for the babydoll!

    ReplyDelete
  76. CarolaAugust 31, 2013 at 3:14 AM

    Tartan on the bias! The other ones are "nice", but that one hits it.

    ReplyDelete
  77. MeiganAugust 31, 2013 at 7:39 AM

    I like the plaid on the bias. It gives a cool rocker-chic vibe.

    ReplyDelete
  78. Virginia's WorldAugust 31, 2013 at 8:44 AM

    the plaid on the bias!

    ReplyDelete
  79. lapAugust 31, 2013 at 11:14 AM

    Plaid on the bias! I want to add that the fact it's colbalt and not classic red, really makes it look fresh.

    ReplyDelete
  80. AnonymousAugust 31, 2013 at 12:58 PM

    Plaid on the bias is my favorite. Though I do wish I could see the metallic lace in person; I suspect it has a shine and shimmer that just can't be caught by a photograph.

    ReplyDelete
  81. AnonymousAugust 31, 2013 at 1:43 PM

    My eye kept going to the thick layer of leather at the waist. Instead of at the waist, maybe run it as a binding along the skirt edge. Then the lace or the plaid would look pretty cool.

    Good luck.
    Robin

    ReplyDelete
  82. SunGoldAugust 31, 2013 at 3:13 PM

    Depends on the venue. Where are you playing? Is it a private dinner, an art gallery opening, an outdoor concert or a pit party?

    The plaid's more alive and rockin', and the variations on lace much more sedate. I'm guessing you want A-L-I-V-E with an exclamation mark...go plaid.

    ReplyDelete
  83. kmoAugust 31, 2013 at 3:53 PM

    How about tartan on the bias with a few lace appliques?

    ReplyDelete
  84. RebeccaAugust 31, 2013 at 3:53 PM

    Congrats on your upcoming second book and performance. I vote tartan straight grain. Very Vivianne!!

    ReplyDelete
  85. AnonymousAugust 31, 2013 at 4:19 PM

    hi,
    love the bias tartan plaid!
    how about a short, flirty, full circle skirt over black tulle
    mlga 730

    ReplyDelete
  86. ReginaAugust 31, 2013 at 6:52 PM

    definitely loving the tartan on the bias and I picked up your 2 new Butterick patterns today...can't wait to start sewing them...i'll send you the pics!!

    ReplyDelete
  87. SuzieAugust 31, 2013 at 7:24 PM

    Go the tartan on the bias Gertie, it will look fantastic for the stage!

    ReplyDelete
  88. AnonymousAugust 31, 2013 at 10:08 PM

    Love the tartan on the bias - just went to MOOD fabric in LA. Loved it. Wow! Fun to just shop can't decide what to make. Did buy some purple leather just because I like how it felt.

    ReplyDelete
  89. AnonymousAugust 31, 2013 at 11:51 PM

    I think lace rocked with the leather! Maybe the black lining is too dark for some but I liked it too!

    ReplyDelete
  90. RebeccaSeptember 1, 2013 at 12:56 AM

    Personally, I love that metallic lace! It's beautiful, elegant, but also edgy. You could wear it on a nice date to a fancy restaurant, or rock your performance and look punk. I like the plaid, too; I don't like it as much on the bias.

    ReplyDelete
  91. UnknownSeptember 1, 2013 at 1:12 AM

    I see it as separates a great top to go with pants or skirts. My suggestion is use the same fabric and more leather if your keeping as a dress

    ReplyDelete
  92. StephanieSeptember 1, 2013 at 3:40 AM

    Tartan for the rocker.....

    ReplyDelete
  93. Betty StitchupSeptember 1, 2013 at 4:42 AM

    The metallic lace is pretty good but if you really want to make a statement, go with the tartan - much more rock and roll! I'm in a band myself and I started sewing because I needed stage clothes. You can get away with so much more onstage which is really fun. The sequins may not be right for this dress but sequins look awesome onstage especially under lights. Can't wait to see the finished result.

    ReplyDelete
  94. bahnwärterinSeptember 1, 2013 at 6:37 AM

    metallic lace on tartan!!!! serious!

    ReplyDelete
  95. AnonymousSeptember 1, 2013 at 9:04 AM

    im all over the westwoodian :)

    ReplyDelete
  96. AyanaSeptember 1, 2013 at 3:37 PM

    My favorite is the metallic lace! The other lace is better over a contrasting color, remembering that from the stage it will show up better that way. The tartan looks better on the bias.

    ReplyDelete
  97. AleshaSeptember 1, 2013 at 5:59 PM

    I am not crazy about the metallic lace. It's almost too spanish looking for the style you were going for. The tartan does look cool, but wasn't the point of the dress to have it be lace and leather? It would make for a cool dress but I'm just considering the objective at hand. Have you tried/thought about using a different lace?

    ReplyDelete
  98. NathalieSeptember 1, 2013 at 6:41 PM

    I love the tartan, either way!

    ReplyDelete
  99. PeppiSeptember 2, 2013 at 7:18 AM

    Tatran on the bias!! Love Love Love it!! Very very cool!

    ReplyDelete
  100. Nora MorrisonSeptember 2, 2013 at 10:38 AM

    Am agreeing that tartan looks most rock, but would love to see the first lace with a pink or nude underskirt and the very full, gathered skirt you described...separates?

    ReplyDelete
  101. Nora MorrisonSeptember 2, 2013 at 10:39 AM

    Am agreeing that tartan looks most rock, but would love to see the first lace with a pink or nude underskirt and the very full, gathered skirt you described...separates?

    ReplyDelete
  102. WendyBeeSeptember 2, 2013 at 2:01 PM

    I'll always put a tartan in first place, can't help it, I LoVe tartans every day of the week.

    ReplyDelete
  103. elisaSeptember 2, 2013 at 4:58 PM

    i love it!

    kiss from pausacioccolata fashion&cosmetics

    ReplyDelete
  104. RubySeptember 2, 2013 at 7:38 PM

    Bias tartan please.

    ReplyDelete
  105. RebeccaSeptember 2, 2013 at 7:42 PM

    I think the tartan fits best stylistically, but does veer towards separates. Have you thought about putting a band of leather at the bottom of the skirt to tie it together?

    ReplyDelete
  106. AimeeSeptember 3, 2013 at 11:45 AM

    Tartan! Not on the bias!

    ReplyDelete
  107. AnonymousSeptember 3, 2013 at 10:33 PM

    The tartan straight up!

    ReplyDelete
  108. Attic ClutterSeptember 4, 2013 at 3:57 PM

    the lace or the tarten(:)

    ReplyDelete
  109. Attic ClutterSeptember 4, 2013 at 3:58 PM

    oops tartan

    ReplyDelete
  110. AngelaSeptember 4, 2013 at 10:19 PM

    Tartan most definately!

    ReplyDelete
  111. AnonymousSeptember 5, 2013 at 5:36 AM

    I'm feeling black and ivory stripes like chivron effect
    Or I'm feeling some white maybe silver organza horizontal pleats parallel to the leather peplum
    And I think THe tartan is awesome it kind of vivienne westwood vive!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  112. RebeccaSeptember 6, 2013 at 4:01 AM

    nonbiased tartan definitely!

    ReplyDelete
  113. Linda F.September 6, 2013 at 10:50 AM

    I just love that you showed so many completely different choices. I don't know how you're going to pick but it sure is fun to see the options!

    ReplyDelete
  114. AnonymousSeptember 6, 2013 at 12:37 PM

    What about black lace with pewter lining, or some deep color lining with black lace. Metallic lace was too traditional looking, taffeta-meh.

    ReplyDelete
  115. Linda SSeptember 6, 2013 at 3:19 PM

    This will be an amazing dress. I love the tartan and the lace w/black lining. The metallic lace feels like gilding the lily to me--too much going on, and the sequins, meh. To each her own, right? But I do like the girly style better than babydoll in this incarnation.

    ReplyDelete
  116. AnonymousSeptember 6, 2013 at 4:18 PM

    Bias Tartan!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  117. RachelSeptember 14, 2013 at 2:01 PM

    I vote for the lace with the black lining. Good luck choosing!

    ReplyDelete
  118. In the mood for CoutureSeptember 27, 2013 at 7:06 AM

    Go for the last option, the tartan! it simply matches so well with the leather band! so modern, so grunge!
    http://en.inthemoodforcouture.com

    ReplyDelete

Thanks for your comments; I read each and every one! xo Gertie

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