AMY’S PREPPY SKULLS DRESS – (NOVEMBER 2013)
For my first Minerva Crafts Blogger Network garment I choose Vogue’s Misses’ Dress 8872. I loved how the midsection looked very fitted and flattering. Since I’m obsessed with black and white I knew the top needed to be some fun b/w print with the sleeves, midsection and skirt black. I wanted a classy and sophisticated dress but edgy and fun so I went with a black and white skull print fabric. The rest is a black cotton poplin fabric.
My measurements were 33-28-36, so I picked a size 10 for the top and 14 for middle waist and 14 for hips. Next time I make this I’ll make a size 12 for the top and maybe add 1/2 inch length so it fits snug under my bra line. The waist and hips will be a size 12 also. The top is very snug and the waist/hips I had to take in, a few times. I would even consider using size 10 on my waist, just so it has a closer fit. If it is baggy it looks a bit frumpy. I always have a heck of a time with sizing!
Now, about the pattern. Overall everything was very easy, except the bodice was a little confusing. Below is a picture of the directions and the bodice in mid-construction. It isn’t hard, but it took me a few times to get the sleeves lined up correctly and right/wrong sizes looking good.
Here is a finished view of the front:
You can see the lovely waist detail a bit here. The waist on this dress basically hugs your natural waist and sits perfectly. Adding the skinny belt is just for looks because structurally, it doesn’t need help.
The pattern calls for you to line the sleeves, back bodice and waist. I didn’t do the waist because I liked the corset-like look of it. I used my serger to overlock the edges and I chose white on purpose (this time I wasn’t being lazy) because I liked the look of the contrast.
The waist part in the back is a V shape, which is very pretty and helps to sit on your bum nicely. I won’t lie though, it took me about 4 tries to sew this and have it lay flat. I’d recommend starting with the bottom of the V first and going out towards the hips on each side.
I fought a bit with the zipper, which you can tell at the top and it’s a tad uneven. I can solve this by wearing my hair down though. For the pictures I have it up, so everyone can see the truth and not repeat what I did! It’s not really so bad. But I did match up the waist seams perfectly – score!
I really like how the front neckline drapes.
Overall I’d recommend this pattern – it’s very flattering and besides the bodice and V shaped bum being a little weird during construction, it’s a great pattern. Everything you need to recreate this look is in my kit. There is a lot of extra black poplin fabric – but on the bright side, that fabric is flat out amazing and having extra black in your stash is just smart 😉
Oh, and some cuteness:
Cute dress, I love the shape of it! I often have that issue too with the waist and hips. I often cut a bust, waist and hips all in different sizes as my measurements are all just too small for one sizes then too large for the next size down!
Thanks! It drives me nuts trying to figure out sizing. I always get worried and make it too big, so I figured this time I’d learn from that and go down a size on the bodice… then that made it SUPER tight LOL. I’m trying to make note of what I wear in each pattern company size 🙂
What great style you have. This dress ia wonderful.
Thanks so much 😀
Wow that was a big undertaking for your first make! Looks awesome, love hoe the neck drapes
I figured GO BIG OR GO HOME! haha.. The next make isn’t as big but it should still be good 🙂 Thanks so much!
OOOOOH I love this pattern,its super cute:)
Wonderful use of contrasting fabric. You look so sleek and chic!
Love love love this dress!!
Thanks <3