Monday, June 6, 2011

New Look 6723- Bring on the Flamingos!

Say hello to New Look 6723, made up in 100% cotton covered in pink flamingos:
I made view B, the sleeveless, boat neck view. This was one of the easiest patterns I've ever used. This dress goes together like a dream, and the only adjustment I made to the pattern was a 1/2" princess seam FBA. I didn't even add any length, and that almost never happens.


I didn't even use the instructions. I've made enough dresses to kind of know what I'm doing, and this is a very simple design. I think the pattern called for a regular zipper, but I used an invisible one.


I cut a 14 through the shoulders and a 16 from the bust on down. Because the skirt is full, I didn't have to go up a size at the hip. And speaking of skirts, I love this one. It's an A-line with a curved waist. What this means is that even though it's gathered to the bodice, it's not too full and/or bulky at the waist. It's a full skirt that doesn't make me feel like a parade float.


The bodice is lined edge to edge with coral broadcloth. I love this lining technique, which finishes the neck and shoulders at one time. It looks very nice, too.


I decided to finish the hem with bias tape. It was easy, and I thought it might give the hem just a tiny bit more "oomph." (I just adore those flamingos!)


I love the dress, but it definitely needs a belt. I bought a narrow, pink one, but I didn't like it with the fabric. I think a narrow, black patent belt would be perfect. Any suggestions on where to find one online? I might even try making something out of black ribbon.

I just love this dress. It's so simple to make and it's got great retro flair. I'm already planning my next version using a large scale Asian print I've been hoarding.

One tiny word of caution: the boat neck on this is rather high. I like it and did not make any adjustments, but others might find it too high for their taste. It would be very easy to just scoop a little bit out to lower it. I recommend a muslin to see if you like it or need to adjust it.

In other sewing news, I have Butterick 5464 under construction and getting close to being finished. I'm falling out of love with the fabric and this version may end up being a muslin. We'll have to wait and see.

I'm also expecting my Vogue patterns to arrive any day now, and I just ordered some knit fabric, which should arrive this week. Stay tuned for more knit dresses!


I hope your sewing is going well!

15 comments:

Karin said...

Love the whimsey of the flamingoes! Your dress may be simple, but the fit is spot on, and the fit is very flattering on you.

Linda L said...

Really like this dress! Cute fabric.

kbenco said...

What a fabulous fit. The flamingos are extremely appealing.

sewing spots said...

What a cute summer dress! Great fit! I love the lining, too.

Sorry, I don't have any advice on where to buy a belt :( Good luck finding one.

Mommyof2girlz/StephD said...

The fabric is too cute and love the high neckline on you, another great dress!

Anonymous said...

don't you just love it when everything just goes together . Great dress!!!

KID, MD said...

I LOVE this dress!! So cute and fun. The fit is excellent. Nice work!

Audrey said...

Beautiful dress. The fit is perfect and the print is fun. It looks like a pattern from far away and then you get close and see the flamingos! It makes me smile.

Carolyn (Diary of a Sewing Fanatic) said...

It is lovely! If I may can I suggest the ribbon belt...I think it would work so well with your flamingo fabric!!!

gwensews said...

What a cute dress! I love pink Flamingos.

Kyle said...

GREAT dress!! Rock it!!

Maria (viola33) said...

A lovely dress! I love these flamingoes and the colour fits your skin colour perfectly. Re. the belt, I think the narrow pink one would be my first choice but since you don't like it then a narrow black belt would be nice.

Rose said...

I love the flamingos! You wear them well!! I vote for the ribbon belt.

MushyWear said...

This is such a neat dress and fits you like a dream!

Sheila said...

Such a fun and pretty dress. Really like the shaping and Carolyn's idea is a good one.