Monday, April 25, 2011

Betty's Sheath


I finally had the chance to get some sewing done last week, and it was completely refreshing. I used a modern pattern, McCall's 5845, which I'd forgotten that I had and was nearly identical to the original dress.

 I did have some fitting issues due to the fact that, like most women, my hips are nearly three sizes larger than my bust. In other words, I'm a classic pear shape. Even though I was able to cut the top and bottom pieces in each size, it was still quite tricky.  I also added two inches to the hem and a tie to the back. I could have added a couple more inches for a nicer bow, but I was pleased overall.

The fabric that I used was from Sosovintage, and yet again, a vintage sheet. The pattern did call for lining the entire dress, but in anticipation to finish (and a lack of fabric), I only lined the top. The fabric is pretty light, so I'll need to wear a slip when I wear it out. Another added detail that I love- a vintage metal zipper was used for that extra retro touch.


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14 comments:

  1. JennieApril 25, 2011 at 5:00 AM

    That fabric NEVER looked so good! You did an amazing job on the dress, and it looks stunning on. What talent... thank you so much for sharing, and for the shout out to my shop :)
    Jennie

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  2. Donna -Little Tiny StitchesApril 25, 2011 at 10:56 AM

    What an amazing dress :)
    And made from one of Jennies vintage sheets too, I think you chose fabulous fabric, and the dress is amazing :o)

    I'm a bit scared of dress making myself..fine with using the sewing machine -I love sewing- but following patterns scares the life out of me :o)

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  3. CelticKnotApril 25, 2011 at 3:08 PM

    Gorgeous!

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  4. gillyflowerApril 26, 2011 at 2:00 AM

    Fantastic - its gorgeous - well done!

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  5. Rene MicheleApril 26, 2011 at 10:47 PM

    Donna, thank you! Using patterns can be intimidating when you start. I know that I'm still learning something new all the time. And usually from making mistakes first. :)

    Thanks for all the nice comments!

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  6. yippeevintageApril 27, 2011 at 8:19 AM

    Your choice of fabric for your sheath dress is so pretty... it's a lovely match for that style of dress! You did a beautiful job with the custom fitting too... it looks great on you. :)

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  7. Rene MicheleApril 28, 2011 at 9:45 AM

    Thanks yippeevintage! It was a wee difficult, but I got through it okay :)

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  8. Mrs.KwittyMay 1, 2011 at 4:28 PM

    I love it!! That is a fantastic fabric that really compliments the style of the dress---so fresh and summery! Nicely done.
    Smiles, Karen

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  9. Rene MicheleMay 1, 2011 at 9:50 PM

    Thanks Karen! I think that I am going to love this dress for the summer.

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  10. pretty odd wonders.May 14, 2011 at 5:36 PM

    your blog is wonderful! this dress is absolutely gorgeous! you have a new and excited follower :)

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  11. Rene MicheleMay 14, 2011 at 9:40 PM

    Sofia, thank you very much!

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  12. The Creative Miss WJune 14, 2011 at 11:41 PM

    This is gorgeous!

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  13. TillySeptember 18, 2011 at 11:39 PM

    A bit late to comment here but I've just discovered your blog and love it! This dress is soooo pretty. And very Betty, yes.

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  14. Rene MicheleSeptember 19, 2011 at 11:29 AM

    Tilly, thank you!

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