S-E-R-I-O-U-S-L-Y!!! And I simply adore this look...
photo courtesy of www.style.com
As is, it is just not corporate ready...and I've been thinking and pondering on how to make it work for my lifestyle. I've religiously visited the dress on style.com. I've printed out pictures to try and capture all of the details, as well as, the essence of the dress. I finally got the "bright" idea to visit the Ferragamo website and watch the dress move and see larger pictures of it.
After watching the video for the third or fourth time, I finally came up with an idea on how to incorporate the best features of the dress...which to me are the supplice neckline...just not as deep as the original. The wrapped skirt but not with the slit up to gloryland (can I still call it that since it's not as much a destination as it once was...*LOL*) and of course the houndstooth fabric.
So this is what I came up with...
I can use my TNT dress pattern to start with based upon this dress that I made back in June 2007.
Hopefully with all my pattern alteration books, I can figure out how to make the draped panel on the front, which I'm using instead of the slitted front skirt. I found a silk twill from Fabric Mart that I will use for this dress...
In watching the video on the Ferragamo site, I now realize that the original dress is made from a midwt silk houndstooth...sort of like the one I used in the Dries van Noten mixed fabrications dress. My fabric is drapier and lighter but I think this will work better for me. I'm also thinking of adding a black waistband instead of making it all out of the houndstooth and I've been going back and forth over whether or not to add piping at the neckline.
I know that this is altering the designer's vision but I am calling this series of dresses designer inspired. I just think without all the skin showing, I will end up looking like one large blackandwhite check...there needs to be some definition there.
Anyway, that's what I'm working on today...since there are a few pattern alterations, some embellishments and a lining going on, I sincerely doubt that I will be finished with the dress this evening...but you never know...I may get inspired!
...as always, more later!
Very cool, Carolyn. Your process is so interesting. You attack your object of obsession with such mad analytical skillz. I really look forward to seeing this progress!
ReplyDeleteThat is a great dress! What do you think about leaving it pretty much as is, but wearing it over a black (ore even another color) sheath? That way the skin issue is resolved, you get some contrast to break up the check and you get the dress more like the original.
ReplyDeleteOn another note - I'm sewing the dress you've been bugging - er - encouraging me to make - V1250. I'd be done except I need to take it in - which as you know, isn't an easy feat with the minimal seams.
I like Debbie's idea:) And I LOVE the gloryland comment...:)
ReplyDeletehow about keeping the deep neckline and and adding an insert in white or black? (is that a dickey?) Kind of like if you wore the original dress over a jewel collared or boatneck t-shirt. The collar of this dress kind of reminds me of the vogue 12 50 with the drape, and I'm trying to think of how to retain the collar line, along with your modesty! I'm sure you will find a great solution.
ReplyDeleteRose in SV
I was so happy when you showed me this dress in the first place! It is gorgeous. I am just has awe struck as you are. Can't wait to see your version.
ReplyDeleteYes, a few inches up and it will be perfect for work!
ReplyDeleteI like Shams always find your process of replicating with modification to suit and fit your style interesting. There are a couple of patterns out that have a similar look to the runway dress, but you are very good at taking the TNT pattern and modifying to suit. Look forward to its completion.
ReplyDeleteI've loved your blog for some time, but this Designer Inspired series is my favorite them in recent months. Like shams, your process is fascinating and inspiring. Can't wait to see the progress on this one.
ReplyDeleteI love reading how you take inspiration from a designer look and figure out how to make it work for you! You're making me feel brave enough to dip my toes into pattern drafting and altering.
ReplyDeleteooohh, nice read! This is very helpful to understand just how your creative process flows.
ReplyDeleteAnd I had to read that line about the Gloryland a few times, because it cracked me up.
This will be a great dress.
This is going to be awesome!
ReplyDeleteGreat fabric choice! I like the scale of your fabric much better than the original. I'm with you on the black waistband, too. I'd pipe it in the houndstooth. In theory, I like the sheath idea as well, but wonder if you'd have too many layers to be comfortable... fashion fabric, sheath, lining. I'm sure you will work it out!
ReplyDeleteMy first thought when I saw that dress is Mary's houndstooth version of V1250: http://sewfastembroidery.blogspot.com/2011/09/pictures-for-my-peeps.html
ReplyDeleteHowever, as always I think you've manage to get the essence of the dress, incorporating the elements from the designer dress that you love and making them work for you and your life. Can't wait to see it done. g
I was popping in to comment exactly what Debbie said, I love reading about your process, so thank you for sharing.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your thinking process for the designer inspired series. I also appreciate the ideas that commentors make. Your blog helps me to expand my creative thinking. I think your inspiration dress is awesome. I look to seeing your version.
ReplyDeleteI also thought an inset might let you maintain the original plunging neckline look without being indecent for work, but I like what you've come up with, too.
ReplyDeleteI've become an expert NOT after watching the first 10 episodes of Project Runway Season 9 - LOL! Seriously, don't know what on earth I'd try to do with that neckline other than close it up somehow or other, cutting the "v" higher, maybe some pleating or gathering and several snaps added here and there to hold it all together! For the effect of the draped skirt, my chicken-out way would be to cut an extra panel and sew it to the front - no slit whatsoever to worry about that way, but extra material used. It wouldn't have to be lined, which would cut down on the bulk.
ReplyDeleteWow Carolyn, great dress for an interrpretation. I Always like to read your posts, but these designer inspired dresses are very, very special
ReplyDeleteLove the black and white print on you, but I'm thinking the center slit tulip skirt and centered, long and narrow cleavage depicted would look very nice on you. You're mods are right, though- too much of a good thing, to have all that bizness on display :)
ReplyDeleteWait, all these posts are mentioning an insert, what about a red or purple two inch facing? in something floaty or frothy that is set about two inches out from the skirt and cleavage edges.
ReplyDeleteI just came across this dress - it has sort of the "look" of what you sketched except the bottom is a tulip style skirt. I know I'm talking out of my hat, this level of sewing is way beyond me, but it looks sort of like a "wrap skirt" but with "ovalled" off edges instead of 90 degree angles.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.onestopplus.com/clothing/Print-Dress-in-Sarong-Style.aspx?PfId=56315&DeptId=11584&ProductTypeId=1
Hope posting that link isn't against the rules, since it's a commercial site.
I definitely think you should go for it and like your train of thought so far on making it work appropriate. I can't wait to see the finished dress.
ReplyDelete