Looking For a Bit of Date Night Romance

February is the month for celebrating those we love. 

As busy parents, my husband and I take any opportunity we can to have some quality alone time. I found this wonderfully romantic Pink Roses on Grey Bamboo/Spandex Jersey at Nature's Fabrics.

It evoked images of quiet music playing, candlelit Chianti bottles, and the aromas of a meal not prepared by me. I knew it would be perfect for a Valentine's Day date night dress. I have previously used Butterick 6678 to make a dress with the pattern recommended woven fabric. I liked that dress and wanted to recreate it with in a knit fabric with slight variations from my first.

For this version, I chose to make view B with the sleeves of view A.

To modify this for a knit, I went down two sizes from that needed for a knit. This allowed me to reduce the ease for a figure-hugging fit.

I omitted the center back zipper as the dress can be pulled over the head though the deep neckline. I added clear elastic to the neckline facing before sewing it to the bodice. This provides stability and prevents warping with time and wear.

I really love the look and feel of the delicate gathers at the sleeve 

and the lower-tier.

I don't think I need to say it, but this dress was a big hit with the hubs. We had a great time and this dress will be featured heavily in the date wardrobe rotation.

The Black History Month sale in my Etsy store is still going on. It will end on February 29. Now is a great time to order your pattern weights, vintage patterns and anything else that tickles your fancy. 

 

Happy Sewing,
Bianca

Something Borrowed, Something Different

Bright colors, large florals, bold prints in simple silhouettes make up my go-to style. As an introvert, I like to wear clothes that will serve as an ice-breaker in social settings. It makes it easier for me to engage if I have a conversation starter.

When I saw the new Something Borrowed collection by Riley Blake designs, I felt a tugging to take a departure from my usual choices and style. I felt the need to make a statement of a different kind, a softer more subtle one.

The muted colors and the small-scale fabric of the delicate design of the Floral Grey print spoke to a calm, summer state of mind.

I chose the new Butterick 6678 to pair with this lovely fabric.  

I love the bodice and sleeve details of view A. The the weight of the cotton holds up well. I like the way it helps define the sleeves.

The pattern was a fast sew requiring no modifications for me. 

Laser-cut pattern weights are available in my Etsy store.

   

The pattern calls for an invisible zipper which is perfect to keep the print uninterrupted.

I finished it with a blind hem to keep the delicate print uninterrupted. 

I am so happy with this dress. It is a slight departure for me, but is still looks like it belongs in my closet. That being said, that Scallops Navy is calling my name.

Happy Sewing,

Bianca