Or is the Fifties, Seventies style? Hmm. Anyhoo, isn't this 1974 Simplicity pattern interesting? It has elements of decades prior--the sweetheart neckline, the full skirt. But just look how the models are rocking it with the platform shoes! Love the hairstyles, too.
Now, here's my version:
I made this up in a green and white polka dot poplin from Gorgeous Fabrics. I didn't change a thing about the pattern, and the fit worked out great! If I make it again, I'll probably add a little more ease to the waistline. One too many cupcakes and things could get a little dicey there. It could also stand to be taken in at the side seams of the bust.
One experimental thing I did was to cut up a store-bought bra (it's one I don't wear very much) and sew it into the bodice. I tacked it on at the neckline facing, and stitched it on in the ditch of the side seams. I left the back of the bra intact so that I could hook it after I put the dress on (like how you hook a waist stay). I have to say, it's awesome. It's a nice way to get shape or support if you're in a pinch or can't find the right sew-in bra cups. I was going to show you a picture of the inside, but then I realized I'm too shy to show my unmentionables on the interwebs.
I wore this out to dinner when my sweetheart and I had our wedding anniversary a few weeks ago (five years!). The lovely waitress effusively complimented the dress, and it was all I could do to not blurt out, "I MADE IT!" I just gave a very restrained "thank you" with a smile.
How do all you other seamstresses handle compliments on your handmade clothing? Do you suppress the urge to tell the world that you created it? Or am I the only weirdo who does this?
