An update on the “Frankendress”

So, usually I write about faith and stuff, right? Yes. Well, this is CONSUMING all of my energy and attention right now. Therefore I invite you to share with me that which has eaten my life. I promise we’ll get back to our regularly scheduled programming soon.

I originally said this dress would be called the “Lauren.”

But then my coworker dubbed it the “Frankendress” because I’m using two different patterns/ two different companies/ four decades apart to make the dress. And I thought the title was hilarious.

Anyway: it’s cut out. Pockets are assembled. Bodice is getting there.

Roadblocks I’ve hit along the way:

• Apparently the patterns were only in size sixteen. Now, that’s the weird and incomprehensible world of dress-pattern sizes, granted. Still, I’m not actually a sixteen.
• Making and taking out pockets at least three times. You know that feel, bro?
• Almost running out of black material for the accents. Eeep!
• Did I mention the dance is tomorrow? Good thing I have the Holy Spirit and stuff.

Since I don’t have a pattern that’s exactly what I want, nor do I have a pattern in my size, I’ve had to do a bit of creative interpretation. Have you heard of the internet, though? It’s a wealth of knowledge and ideas. Don’t think I haven’t spent significant amounts of my time “researching.”

As far as creativity goes, though, I’ve happened upon some pretty happy ideas. For instance:

• The skirt was too big. Like, I cut out the FRONT piece and it was nearly enough for a skirt. The problem was, I had already assembled the pockets. Internet/ Pinterest to the rescue! Three words: CENTER BOX PLEAT. Done and done. So cute, and with a vintage flavor to boot!
• Cap sleeves. I think I like them. I’ll keep you updated. But, I am pleased with the sleeves themselves–very finished. I’m just not sure how they’ll look on ME.
• I originally planned for a sweetheart top. I drew it, I talked about it. But, then I cut out the bodice and the pattern extended the top to my collarbone. Now, I’m a modest girl, but if a top covers my Miraculous Medal…is it really a party dress? (Side Bible joke because it came to mind: we know Mary loves a party. Just look at Jesus’ first miracle. 😀 ). When I folded the neckline down to try to find a better location for the neckline…I kind of fell in love with the Peter Pan-style result. Like, really. I can almost envision it with little buttons. Problem: I couldn’t figure out how to install said collar.
• Awesome thing: while commuting to work this morning I FIGURED OUT HOW TO ATTACH AND FINISH THE COLLAR I WANT. You better believe I’m ready for this.

My next research project…an exposed zipper. How do you feel about the exposed zipper craze, all?

Dude! Share your thoughts about sewing/ dresses/ fashion/ Peter Pan collars/ cap sleeves below! We shall create together!