I love starting the year off with #JungleJanuary at Pretty Grievances! (Above image property of Pretty Grievances.) I usually don’t add jungle prints to my fabric stash, but I am always inspired by Jungle January. This year I have found two fabrics – one being a black & blue Ocelot. It’s called a Harmony Jacquard, 58% cotton, 37% polyester, 5% spandex. It is a thick soft fabric, warm for when the office gets too cool. The fabric might be to soft for the pattern I am using but I love the blue! I decided to pull out my untried Sewaholic Davie dress. I like the size range of Sewaholic patterns and they always fit me well. This pattern has cap sleeves though so if I sew it up as is, I will have to keep a sweater handy to keep my arms warm.
This is a pattern meant for knit fabrics and it was easy to sew up. I did decide that the neckline was too high though and I wanted a little contrast. An easy fix – cut the neckline down an inch or so and add on a contrasting neckline band.
Now for some stiff, uncomfortable shots of me and my new dress… with Simon!
I have another offering for Jungle January but I am seriously running out of time!!! I’ll finish it anyway and post it here. I don’t know how January could possibly have been busier than December, but Hey! That’s Life! (Do you like the Frank Sinatra version or the Michel Buble version?)
Happy Sewing!
42 Responses to “Jungle January and a black & blue Ocelot!”
I like the neckline as well. I like contrast on a dress but I can never find a belt I like. I think my problem is that I once had “the ideal belt” and have never found one that can take its place. I do enjoy that Simon gets to be part of Jungle January….but why not Sophie, is she somewhat shy.
Thank you for the compliment! Yes, I am still hunting for a belt… I hope someday to find the one I want! Haha, Sophie is shy, but she will be getting into the act soon!
Love it!! The fabric is so unique (ocelot!!!!!) and it’s a real standout dress, for sure. I love the addition of the collar: it’s the perfect touch! (And Simon, too!)
Thank you! Pets and kids always steal the show! 😃
I prefer it without the belt, such a great dress and love it how you haven’t used proper animal print colour the blue makes it really special
Thank you! I just had to have the blue! It’s funny that the fabric description was actually “black and blue ocelot” … As if!
Linda, the dress looks wonderful – and in the colours chosen, very subtle jungle and very flattering. I’ve just started using WordPress so I can get to know this community over here – but still have my Blogger Blog.
Thank you! Well welcome to WordPress. I like the WordPress program. I see bloggers from all over comment here and people from here comment over there, but I am not too familiar with how to cross over and comment though. I guess I just need practice!
I think it’s also just easier to work on one platform at a time.
Some people are so clever and have so much time they are everywhere… I’m jealous… I still have a job I have to go too. ☹ but maybe some day! 😄
The blue is fabulous! I would like to steal this dress for my blue dominated wardrobe :). I think your clever neckline modification was spot on. The belt is nice but I like it without too, obviously a versatile dress. Random cobwebs can be so distracting.
Thank you! Yes I too have a blue dominated wardrobe! I try for other colours but it doesn’t always work out so well!
I know what you mean! Other colors just can’t compete with blue 🙂
I love this dress! And the contrast neckline is a wonderful touch. The belted version shows off your legs….but both look great on you. Simon is a perfect prop, and the spider web caption really gave me a good chuckle.
Thank you! Sometimes I desperately need a prop when having my picture taken! 😂
I think your black neckline makes the fabric print really sing. I like the dress with and without the belt – I’m sure there will be occasions when a particular way is called for.
I love your pictures! Photographing the garment is the hardest part of blogging in my opinion. I never seem to be able to get a picture I really like. Perhaps I could borrow Simon?
Thank you! I just need a proper black belt now. I wonder if I can see one I can make myself. I love photos with props – especially cats – something to steal the show!
Very pretty! Love the colour of this animal print. I think I prefer it without the belt. Has nice shape to it. Fingers crossed I get my Jungle January completed in time!! Where did January go?
Thanks! I’ve got a second jungle January garment, but the end of the month is so close! Looking forward to seeing your’s even if it is not in time!
I love the fabric, and although I’m not a Sewist, I think the black neckline brought out the print even more. I smiled when I saw you mauling Simon. I do the same with my miniature Schnauzer, Ozzy.
Thanks! There’s nothing like mauling a beloved pet! 🐶🐱😍