Sewing a Bright Summery DIY Dress

Though summer hasn't officially started yet, the temps have hit 90+ degrees already for the past week or so.  Last week, the office suffered an AC snafu resulting in a ridiculously stuffy and hot building (well, at least for me) thus prompting me to think that I need many more flowy sun dresses for my wardrobe :P

I found this cute, sheer floral at Joann's and thought it would make a perfect dress option.  I've been having luck lately at Joann's - especially when I head to one specific location with an incredibly well-organized and well-stocked clearance section.  You know I love a good deal!

Dress:  DIY Bright Floral Sun Dress

Belt:  Old Navy Bronze Bow Belt in Croc Print

Shoes:  Gucci d'Orsay Camel Pumps

The dress actually uses the same pattern (McCall's M5654 View B) as this one below but the straps are in a different configuration:

 

I love that this pattern provides a fitted top portion with a flowy bottom that can be left alone or belted.  Do you ever buy/make the same item in different colors and variations?

My Favorite OOPS DIY Dress

When I set out to make this dress, I was envisioning a slim cowl tube dress in a light gray color.  What I wound up with was an asymmetrical split collar A-line dress in dark gray ponte knit.  I do think the color is too severe for summer and the general style looks more fall / winter but ultimately I like how this turned out.  The challenge will be how to alter this into a post-pregnancy dress but I'll worry about that later ;)

Dress:  DIY

Belt:  Ann Taylor Reptile Patterned Belt

Necklace:  Ann Taylor Silver Rhinestone Necklace

Pin:  Rhinestone Tree

Shoes:  Gucci d'Orsay Camel Pumps

A closer view of the pin - I love the pop of "bling" this adds!

What do you think of this "oops" dress?