For my version of a Dolly Clackett Dress…I used one of her favourite patterns, Simplicity 2444 {Yes, the same one as my Betty Draper Roses Dress, seen here}. This time round, I followed the pattern pretty closely; the bodice is a match, but I admit to swapping out the skirt’s pleats for gathers. Although it’s nearly impossible to see, there are four nifty darts on the bodice front that give lovely shape to the fit bit of the fit and flare. The fabric…well the fabric had me at hello! It’s a big, beautiful mash-up of birds and flowers. I bought a little extra to be sure to get that bee-yoo-tiful bird on just the right spot on the bodice, and I, rather cleverly if I may say so, matched up the pattern on the bodice back. I also nested a bird on each sleeve. The zipper…gah, another story…let’s just say I wasn’t pleased with that chapter, but I’ll share later. And! I mustn’t forget the name…Roisin names her dresses…brilliant I say! My dress? Please do say hello to the I’m A Bird In Paradise Dress.
Okay, a quick checklist…fit and flare dress, pretty heels, red polished toes, colour, whimsy, polka dots, and a name! Yep! We’s good!
Edit: Fabric is Veracruz White Multi Bird Floral by P & B Boutique!
Ladies and gents! I had a plan! A plan that didn’t pan! Picture it…me, my dress, a great yellow orb in a cloudless blue sky….but, sigh….the weather was having none of that. I didn’t get rained on {just lucky}, or blown away {just barely}, and in the end, it all feels just right!
Dress: Me-Made, Simplicity Pattern 2444
Red Shoes: Fergalicious by Fergie
Bracelets: Me-Made
oona balloona says
THAT BODICE DART. how the hell did you get that posie so very cosy? it's perfect!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
I KNOW! I'm still kind of shaking my head about that.
amy mayen says
Gaw dang, look at your legs Sue. My legs need to look like that in a dress! Love this one, the fabric is gorgeous! Since you fussy cut everything, you must have lots of odd shaped scraps. Do you keep those for little projects;'or toss them out?
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, you got me blushing! It must be the mad skillz of the cameraman because I am not known for my gams, LOL.
I am so frugal with fabric, and it pains me to waste any of it…but with this wild pattern I knew I had to pay attention to pattern placement. In the end, it worked out not too bad. With the exception of front bodice landing smack in the middle of the yardage. I ended up with leftovers around that piece. I'm thinking I've enough for a handbag lining…or you know how I've used contrasting fabric for under collars…I would have enough for that too.
cuckoochanel says
Sue, this is absolutely adorable. Those colors!! Le sigh… Fits you beautifully.
Shelley
Louise Perry says
This is very Dolly Clacket but also very you, well done. Gosh I love it. The colours look great on you and the fit and flare…. WOW. Go you.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, thanks Shelley! Your comment makes me feel so much warmer than I did in these photos!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Yes! Thanks so much Louise! When I put this on, it just feels so me, but I do like to think that Roisin would like it too!
Suzanne Carillo Style Files says
Wow this is so colourful and so Sue! : )
Your pattern matching is incredible and I love the details of the polkadot fabric on the underside of the collar.
You have mad sewing skills woman! I am so jealous!
Those shoes are super cute too. Are the comfy?
You do look a little chilly in the photos…but hey! no snow ; )
Have a great Easter.
bisous
Suzanne
sewingpies says
Oooooo! I love the fabric choice!! What a lovely dress 🙂
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Jenny!. I'm hungry for pie now!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Suzanne! hmmm…I'm just getting back to wearing heels after decades of what I would describe as wearing comfy shoes. Time will tell with these, as they are new. I'm guessing, they won't be, hahaha…although they were totally fine for the short periods I've worn them so far.
Jessica Hurst says
Wow! Now that's a show stopper!
Imogen says
Wow this dress makes such a statement and I love that. The print is so happy. You look gorgeous in this outfit, it is completely stunning. Just spottedthe profile picture you are using for blogger at the moment. You're so adorable.
Connie says
What just a second here! Polka dot facing? Dang it, Girl! You got it goin' on!
sabine says
The dress could not have another name. It is absolutely gorgeous and you look absolutely fabulous in it. Who watches the weather when she sees such a dress.
Sabine xxx
Carelia Moran says
Bright and beautiful! You wear it so well Sue. I love the fact that you are wearing it with confidence. The colors are perfect for Spring/Summer and the print is so happy and so you.
xo
Carelia
MySmallWardrobe.com
Melanie says
Incredible dress! In terms of technical detail, the pattern matching around the zipper makes my head spin. Who needs a lighthouse when we've got you, Sue. Brilliance in abundance.
Brahdelt says
I also loooove your new dress! The fabric is fantastic! *^0^*~~~
Not to mention, I love your shoes…… ^^*~~
Judith Hamid says
Hello Sue – I'm quite a new reader of your blog. I've just made 2444 also, but in a much more sedate fabric (Read, Sew, Crochet – my blog). I must say that I think yours is stunning and suits your auburn locks. It's a great pattern isn't it? I've been umm-ing and ah-ing over heels vs. flats – I think heels look better but I'm not sure if I can go through the style over pain trauma – so for me it's heels for photos but flats for general day to day wear. I loved the Betty Roses dress – I would love to know how you converted 2444 for that one. All the best, Judy.
Sonia says
So colourful and gorgeous! I love the fabric and I love this dress 😀 Very inspirational!
Margo B says
Love!!!! You never disappoint. 2444 is hands down my favorite pattern.
josep-maria badia says
What a wonderful dress! I love the pattern and design, so plain and pretty. You look absolutely wonderful with him.
Flo says
Cute dress! And the bracelet goes perfectly with it. Another stunner! I have to tell you, I was in Walmart last week and they had some dresses for Easter–I couldn't believe how poorly the zippers were put in and they used metal ones that weren't hidden at all, it looked so tacky. I instantly thought of you and your attention to details.
ann wood says
What a perfect dress for Easter! The fit is fabulous and the length is perfect too. Excellent color and I enjoy seeing expert care of inside details. Have a wonderful Easter Sue!
blue hue wonderland
Shybiker says
Gorgeous dress. It makes me smile just looking at it. And you paired it with perfect heels.
Val S says
So, so cute! The fabric is amazing – I hope you bought enough to make more things – and I love the polka dot lining. You really respected the fabric with the way you got the right pieces in the right places. Wow! I'm just so impressed! And of course it looks perfect on you, all bright and cheerful!
Now I'm going to have to go look at Rhinestones and Telephones – that sounds interesting.
Glenda says
Yep, you got my attention. Your dress is so fun and playful it made me want to skip rope 🙂
pastcaring says
What a glorious dress, Sue! The print and colours are just wonderful, and I love the polka dot facing and pockets. You look fabulous in your sassy heels; giving Marilyn a run for her money, love! xxx
Katrina says
That fabric is AMAZING. Very nice!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Jessica…your Dolly's are ah-mazing too!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Imogen. Always nice to have you pop up from down under!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
gotta have me some polka dots Connie!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Sabine…your comments are always thoughtful and poetic!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
This print wouldn't be for everyone, but it really does make me feel confident and happy!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Mel! I am a little bummed about the white strip of zip showing, but I was having some technical issues with the 'magical' invisible zippers.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you, thank you!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hi Judy! Thank you so much for stopping by and saying hello. This is my second time using 2444, and I agree that it's a great pattern. I see using it time and time again. For now, I am wearing heels for days when I know I won't be doing too much walking…I am finding that the round toe heels can be actually fairly comfortable. I will try and do photos and an explanation of the alterations required to make a Betty Draper Roses Dress!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hey Sonia! Thank you! And it's so nice to hear from you!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Margo! 2444 does seem to be a favourite, and I am totally understanding why. Great fit for me, and the technical things like sleeves came together with no problems.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hi Josep! Always such a pleasure to have you stopping by. Thank you for your lovely comment!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Flo! The exposed zipper is trending right now. I like them on some designs, but I firmly believe that not every dress is suited to having an exposed zipper!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Ann! One of the details I get hung up on is the length. When I buy clothing, I usually just accept whatever the length is without thinking about it, but with sewing, I can have the 'perfect' length, and it's so hard to figure out sometimes! I like this length too…skims just above the knee…and I will make a note of the measurement for future! Happy Easter Ann! xo
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Ally! It make me smile to know you're smiling!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Val! Fun profile pic! I have a little bit of fabric left over..not sure exactly what I can do with it though. The fabric ocean is just so big, that I couldn't justify buying enough for another garment. ahaha…
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Now we're even. I'm still dancing from your Happy video! 🙂
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Curtise! Yes, that little gust of wind, although unexpected, turned out to be fun!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you so much Katrina!
Rosy says
I had to grab me to my chair to keep from falling pure pleasure to see your wonderful dress! You are wonderfully clever, you are wonderfully funny and you look wonderful in this dress … OMG!!
Aya in Couturgatory says
What a lovely and creative idea, having an online sew-a-thon for a celebration!
You knocked it out of the park, as always. The darts on the bodice make for the most gorgeous fit, show your awesome figure off, and your beautiful smile honestly lights up the room, even the room I am sitting in, from my laptop!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, thank you so much Rosy! You are genius with your dress designs!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
The darts design did have me hesitant at first, but they really DO fit and flatter! Thanks for stopping by Aya!
Elsie Davies says
Sue you look amazingly fantastic in this dress! What a beauty! Love it very much!
Judith Stansky says
My soul cries out for this fabric. Please share where you bought it and if it has a name or specific company. I feel a google search coming on. TIA Judi
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Oh yes of course! I was remiss in not mentioning it in the post. The fabric is called Veracruz White Multi Bird Floral by P & B Boutique! 100% cotton. Your soul will be happy if you buy!!!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Elsie, thanks so much! I'm happy you like it!
Jean at www.drossintogold.com says
Who needs sunshine when you're around? You are dazzling!!! I love the colors and the way the dress suits you to a T. Beautiful. XXOO
No fear of fashion says
A perfect dress. Yet again. Being Dutch I have no idea who or what Dolly Clackett is. So I googled it… fat chance.. all that came up was the sewing contest haha.
Your skills are very good. Those darts are indeed very nifty. The pattern of the rose doesn't change. And I am a sucker for matching up the pattern on sides and back. That to me is quality as you know the manufacturer (in this case you, in my case the brand) had to put in more time, effort and material to realize this…. therefore… quality. You did a wonderful job (also with the bird at the front). These things are not easy. I had a flower dress made by a seamstress who put a very big flower on my large bosom. We changed that afterwards to a more modest flower hahaha.
Greetje
popcosmo says
Stunning!!! The pattern real does say “look at me” and you are absolutely adorable! These patterns that you make always blow my mind and that you have a closet full of colorful frocks – I would just love to have a peek!
xo ~kim & chloe
Patti says
You're right, this is a look-at-me dress in the most wonderful way, Sue! Love the fabric, the fit and all the details. Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday, xox
Lisa says
Wow! That is definitely a look at me dress. It's like a candy store of color. You look sensational!
Trina says
Right you are, this dress does demand our attention. I'm so drawn to the fit and flare dresses this season, just love the feminine and flirty attitude they present. So wish I had your talent because most of them I've seen only come in sleeveless styles and I prefer a little cap sleeve like this magical one you've just created. the pattern definitely fits the fun and vibrant Sue personality.
Cheryl says
At first I was heartened to hear that you'd had trouble with the zipper, but then I looked at the picture of the zipper that you're not happy with…there's no hope for me. In my wildest dreams I couldn't get a zip to look that good.
Mrs C says
Drool worthy dress and the print is simply pretty and dreamy! I saw somebody at the mall a few days back and she was wearing a floral skater dress with boat-neck and puff sleeves.. I immediately saw you 😉 your signature look!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Mrs. C! Yes, these dresses are becoming a staple, especially with the nice weather coming.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
I'm going to draft up a quick post on the zipper situation! Yes, in the end, this zipper is okay, except it's not invisible AT ALL…just some fears with putting it in.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Trina! You are right…most of the ready to wear dresses are sleeveless! I love a short sleeve too. You, being so fit and slender, can rock the sleeveless look though I'm sure.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
I love that…a candy store of colour! I bet I could get some fun inspiration from a candy store!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Perfect for Visible Monday!! Thanks so much for hosting Patti!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Kim! I could very well be needing a bigger closet with these full skirted dresses all vying for space!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
I admit it! I don't know who or what Dolly Clackett is either, LOL!
Seriously, pattern placement with these large and random seeming prints is very important. So good that your seamstress was able to alter your dress.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Aw, Jean…such a sweet comment! Thank you bunches! It's always so nice to have you popping by to say hello. xo
Cherie James says
I Love that dress! It looks adorable on you – so fun!!!! cherie at stylenudge.com
Jan Graham-McMillen says
You're such a pretty Stichy-Witchy! Impressive pattern matching on the back! Glorious dress all over, and love your little shoes. High heels forever! You've gone to the dark side, Sue … welcome aboard!
Are you thinking of chopping your curls short?
Beata B says
Sue this dress is beautiful! I love the cut, patterns and the colours, it is perfect for your sunny personality 🙂 hugs! Beata xxx
Ruth Procter says
Hi, thanks for your lovely comment on my Sew Dolly Clackett dress – I love yours too! The colours are fantastic and it looks great on you, perfect for Sew Dolly Clackett I think!
pao says
That is truly your signature dress, Sue. A perfection reflection of you in colors, style, fit and fabric pattern.
Citizen Rosebud says
YOU light up the screen- beautiful woman in a gorgeous dress.
TresBienEnsemble says
Your dress is absolutely lovely! I am smitten with the vibrant colors and print in your fabric!
lisa thomson says
Ooooooh, gorgeous!! Love that shape and the color? <3.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Cherie!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
I'm working on it Jan! Thank you for convincing me to give the 5.5 size a chance. Part of my previous problem with heels was buying too large! Re: the hair…your cut is adorable, and I've been sweet on pixie cuts all over the web recently. I used to sport super short hair, and I did love it. But, it would seem a shame to cut off all my curls. So, we'll see how short I actually go.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hugs back atcha Beata! Thanks so much for popping by and saying hello.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Ruth! The Sew Dolly Clackett has been fun!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you so much Pao!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank YOU so much Bella! Your posts always brighten up my days!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you so much, are perhaps I should say, merci beaucoup!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Lisa!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Alyssa! Honestly, that sounds like I'd be getting the better deal…Arizona, sun, hanging out with you! It would be so much fun!!!!
Kezzie says
Sue, your dress is gorgeous!!!! Definitely v Roisin! I was totally stalking the Flickr group pics earlier-such such fun!!! How on earth is she going to choose a winner??????? X
dan says
So wonderfully happy! Your dress is beautiful, but on you is gorgeous…
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Kezzie! I am feeling the same way…however will Roisin choose her winner! They are all so fabulous! It's been such fun following along as everyone made such great makes!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Dan, so very much!
señora Allnut says
fabulousness!! you look gorgeous, your dress is awesome and I'm loving every detail!!
so lovely!
besos
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Ah, Senora! You and me…we both love the colourful canvas, yes?!!
Sacramento Amate says
Wonderful dress, anad magic you every time, my dearest Sue.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Sacramento!