I started this dress last week (read the prequel right here). I love this pattern. It’s a remake of a classic dress pattern, Butterick B5920 “Retro ’51”. Comfortable and easy to make. The fabric is lightweight and soft, an Ellena Rayon Twill Print, 100% Rayon. I even found the perfect buttons for my fabric.
Now I did make some changes – no heart shaped pockets on the chest, no waspish waist, no corset, no crinoline.
One important change for anyone wanting to try this pattern for themselves – I made the sleeve-less version but the shoulders seemed too long at the top seam. I actually cut the armholes to a gradual inch shorter at the top shoulder point. If I am making a sleeve-less top – it’s going to show all of my arms!
As I said before, the other change I made was not to wear a crinoline underneath. Not my style. 🙂 Instead I ironed on fusible interfacing at the hem in the hopes it would make my hem a bit heavier and perhaps give it more shape. I suppose a Petersham ribbon would have done even better, but I am trying to stay away from fabric shops… I’m sure you will understand!
First I zig zagged the fusible interfacing all along the bottom of my hem. My fabric frays quite easily and I thought this might help.
Then I ironed on my interfacing and folded up the hem 1 1/4″ and pressed it again.
Then I turned down the 1/4″ of the hem and straight stitched my hem up all around.
All in all, it did give the hem line some shape. Now all I need to find is a suitable brown leather belt!
Unfortunately after a sunny, warm day, the wind has moved in with a gusto – I can’t go outside without my hair and clothes flapping – so I am left with inside shots. (sorry!)
Hopefully I have correctly met the requirements of #sewtogetherforsummer organized by @rocco.sienna @sewsarahsmith and @sewing_in_spain! Now to go over to Instagram and post my Shirt Dress! Have you joined in #sewtogetherforsummer?
Happy Sewing!
What a nice, classic and practical style. Lovely print too.
Thank you! A bit different than the original 50’s look, but more my style!
Really good updated version of the 50s classic. It suits you
Thank you!
I love this dress. It doesn’t really look ’50s, much more contemporary, and the fabric is gorgeous! All round a terrific make.
Thank you Sue! Although the illustration is lovely, I couldn’t wear something like that. Today I start my hunt for a belt though, for an alternative look!
That neckline is wonderful, so unique! Your dress turned out great, the color is great for you, and it looks very comfortable, a perfect summer option!
Thank you! The neckline was what really drew me to this dress. I haven’t seen that kind of neckline variation before.
You have made that style absolutely your own. I’m sure you will wear it lots in warm weather.
I am liking it. It was a good choice of fabric, style and alterations.
Love the fabric you chose and how beautifully it hangs. What a great tip for the hem too!
Thank you! I just had to try something new with the hem. So far it works!
That turned out great! I like the no sleeves. I know what you mean about staying away from fabric stores. Im trying to stay away from art stores, only to discover that the Michaels five minutes away from my house carries the markers I love!
That colour looks really good on you. 👌
😂 come on! You know deep down that you want ALL THE MARKERS! 😂. Thanks for the compliment!
Linda, it looks lovely. I don’t think we should dismiss the crinoline idea out of hand. Just think how much fun you would have had out there in the wind with your dress going one way and your crinoline going another. 🙂
That’s true! Life with a crinoline was, and could be, interesting! 😂
Crinolines, all I can think of is itchy and scratchy. The dress looks beautiful and the sleeveless look is a great idea for summer. I just have one questions, “What did you do with your other leg?”
I agree, itchy and scratchy! It’s a funny photo, isn’t it. I just have the one behind the other … I really do have two legs to stand on!
Your dress is utterly gorgeous. I think that there is a very fine line between wearing vintage and it looking “costumey” and wearing vintage and looking very chic. You have definitely pulled off the latter. It is a fabulously stylish dress. The neckline is great. Xx
Thank you! The neckline was the feature that caught me right away! I’ll have to remember it to use again!
Your dress is stunning and the color is great on you. I love shirt dresses, but I am not good enough to sew them 🙁 Thanks for linking up to the Top of the World Style linkup party.
Thank you! and thank you for hosting! I just managed to put your link up logo on my side bar. I don’t know why it was so difficult this time. 🙂 Maybe it’s just time for me to get a good night’s sleep! See you next time!