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Sunday, May 5, 2013

Sweet Bow Dress DIY

A couple of weeks ago, I started on this dress with Baby E (instagram pic here) and decided to modify my go-to dress pattern with a contrast waist and a detachable bow.  I considered sewing the bow on, but was a little afraid of how that would fare in the washer.  At the moment, it's attached with a sewn-on pin backing, but depending on the angle, sometimes you can see the pin :/  I'm trying to figure out the best way to fix this.

Pattern:  My favorite bodice pattern McCall's M5972 (adjusted width this way, shortened torso to add the contrasting waist band), self-drafted skirt / bow

Fabric:  Joann's, 100% cotton, 45" home decor fabric, 1.5 yards (this was originally slated for a skirt, but I thankfully had just enough to squeak by with this dress)

Time:  2.5 hrs (over a few days)

Difficulty:  Intermediate

Bright Dress DIY w/ Removable Bow

I really, really love this shape and have made at least 5 of these types of dresses over the last year.  As a short gal with a rectangular torso and a leftover tummy pouch (thanks kids!), the nipped waist and pleated skirt helps mask areas that make me self-conscious.  It's also a relatively easy type of dress to sew!


If you have any bow attachment solution ideas, I'd love to hear them!  Thanks in advance and hope everyone had a wonderful weekend!

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25 comments:

  1. MeMay 5, 2013 at 3:07 PM

    That is a very flattering shape on you! The new pattern you selected is perfect for spring/summer.

    I am leaning more and more towards trying to sew during my summer break. Seeing these posts make me excited to give it a try. :)

    ReplyDelete
  2. PingMay 5, 2013 at 3:13 PM

    You look fantastic in this dress and that this shape is flattering on you. I could see why you have used this pattern many times. I'd love to see this dress paired with the yellow sandals! The blue sash is a nice touch to breaking up the pattern too.

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  3. OlyviaMay 5, 2013 at 3:49 PM

    Baby E is so adorable! And your dress is equally adorable! Just love your DIY dress collection!

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  4. SSMay 5, 2013 at 4:12 PM

    Such a flattering dress on you! Love that cute fabric.

    Is your belt sewn? or also detachable?

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  5. Anthro BloggerMay 5, 2013 at 4:44 PM

    Ha! I've just figured this attaching thing out for one of my DIYs. Snaps! If you are planning on always wearing the bow, snaps are the best, since they also prevent "bow drooping" (not sure of the technical term, but ykwim). The dress looks gorgeous on you! I am looking for a good bodice pattern, off to look for the one you recommend here!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. SewPetiteGalMay 28, 2013 at 5:38 PM

      Thanks for the suggestion! I'd be worried about the visible snap though when I decide not to wear the bow? I think my best bet would have been to make it a belt, oh well, next time!

      Delete
  6. UnknownMay 5, 2013 at 4:44 PM

    I love the pattern and the dress on you, and all the other ones you made. I love these posts when you showcase DIYs, puts me into creative mode to get some work done on the machine lol I can see why you didn't attach the bow on to the dress, but have you tried using two or more pins to pin it down? It would be a flatter bow, but if you pin down the sides maybe the bow won't stick out and reveal the pin as much?

    - Christine

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  7. phiphis blogMay 5, 2013 at 9:28 PM

    i love this dress and cut on you S. you make the most wonderful pieces. i don't know how to help on the bow issue!

    xox P

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  8. Amber @ EasyPetiteLooks.comMay 6, 2013 at 8:10 AM

    the shape of these is lovely. i remember how much i loved the stripe one when you posted it. still my favorite!

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  9. Always MayleeMay 6, 2013 at 10:31 AM

    Wow, you are so talented. Love the dress and that bright, colorful fabric! This shape is definitely flattering on you.

    xo, Yi-chia
    Always Maylee

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  10. lisacngMay 6, 2013 at 10:36 AM

    LOOOOVE the pattern! So vibrant! Hope you figure out the pin/attachment issue. No advice from a non sewer like me :)

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  11. AnonymousMay 6, 2013 at 11:08 AM

    This is so cute! I love the colours. I have no advice for you on the bow, sadly. :( but I know you'll figure something out : )

    ReplyDelete
  12. UnknownMay 6, 2013 at 12:57 PM

    Great fun pattern and that dress fits you beautifully! I was excited to see that you shared a tutorial on adjusting patterns - I have some basic sewing skills but lack the know-how to adjust patterns to fit me. Will definitely check out your link - I'd love to learn how to tailor my patterns so I can sew my own clothes!

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  13. UnknownMay 6, 2013 at 4:18 PM

    Love the colors and this pattern is very flattering on you!! Hmm..about the belt, how about adding a belt loop where you can loop the belt and then it may stay in place??

    ReplyDelete
  14. I.V.Y.May 7, 2013 at 8:29 AM

    Your creations are lovely. Do you still custom made the very beautiful "Custom Made Map of the World w/ Removable Peplum" skirt? I really want to get myself one!!! <3

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  15. UnknownMay 7, 2013 at 1:52 PM

    this is one of my favorite dress silhouettes! it's just so sophisticated yet chic and fun. And i love how the bow is detachable. I hope you find a solution!

    Maggie
    lovestylehappiness.blogspot.com

    ReplyDelete
  16. Crazy Style LoveMay 8, 2013 at 8:41 AM

    Wow, that is such a pretty and fun print! That shape looks really great on you, so I can see why you've repeated the cut. Looks beautiful!

    xo Jenny
    www.crazystylelove.com

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  17. UnknownMay 18, 2013 at 11:31 PM

    Sew, sew cute SPG! ;)

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  18. AnonymousMay 27, 2013 at 9:25 PM

    I wish I have sewing machine so I can follow yout DIY's. Love your style coz I myself is a petite mommy. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AnonymousMay 27, 2013 at 9:25 PM

      **your

      Delete
    2. SewPetiteGalMay 28, 2013 at 5:40 PM

      If you're interested in sewing, I highly recommend going to your local fabric store and trying out a basic class :)

      Delete
  19. LibbyJuly 26, 2013 at 1:25 AM

    I have always adored the shape of these dresses, but I tend to wear my dresses at different lengths from what store-bought petite clothes usually advertise. I like your idea of drafting your own skirt to fit this bodice. Gives me something to consider once I find the fabric that's in my head. :-)

    p.s. I found your blog via the FreeNeedle website. Love your creations!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LibbyJuly 26, 2013 at 1:26 AM

      I also meant to say that I really love the green print dress!

      Delete

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