New Look 6886

I completed New Look 6886 just in time for a date with the husband tonight. I was looking for a 1950's/60's sundress pattern but had a hard time finding one that wasn't for a bust 32! I decided to check out New Look and actually found three patterns which had a 50's feel. I was pleasantly surprised with my first go with New Look patterns...although, there are a few trouble spots! I decided to try the bustier look instead of my trusty darts. I did a FBA using (I believe) Patti Palmer's method. It looks snug in the picture, but it actually fits on the loose side. I wonder if I should have both darts and the bustier gathering? I did three bodice muslins to try to get it right. For someone who is bust-y, this is a tough design to fit. Any hints...send my way! Another area of question, the straps. Who would have thought strips of fabric would be so hard to fit right! I actually would rather set in a sleeve after that experience! They are set a smidgen too far apart so they slip down a bit....not to mentioned sewn at a funny angle. Now a good thing...I absolutely love the skirt on the dress, but if you know me...this is my favorite line on a skirt. I will use the pattern pieces on other dresses! Of course, can't keep me from the trim department! I added a little ric-rac crochet to the hem. If the straps had fit right, I would have added it to them too!

This is a close up of the bustier gathers. I wanted to show this picture because it is the true green of the dress. I used a green and white petite stripe shirting. I love working with the crispness of this fabric. All in all, I do like this pattern. I need to tweak it more to get the right fit on top. It will look cute with a little cardigan (to cover the straps too-ha!) I would like to try the dart version by the end of summer, if possible. There is a lot on the calendar from now until school starts so sewing might be slowing down which makes me sad, but, on the other hand, I am excited to start seeing out of town friends and family mixed with some travelling. A PR review will follow on this dress...

And you ask about my Jackie O.? No, I haven't ignored it. I am almost finished and quite happy with it. I am hand sewing a lot right now. It took me a few days to make it back to Vogue Fabrics to buy more lining for the skirt. I need to sew it up and attach. Book club is tomorrow night...so excited! It should be ready-to-go...now to find a triple strand of pearls and HUGE sunglasses! Can anyone do my hair? Got the hot rollers!

Now...off to swim team....again....