Hi you. You’re well? Me, I’ve been up to my usual….Sewing. Gardening. {I potted up these annuals, and more.} And reading. Actually, there’s been some pretty frenzied mystery novel reading around here. I’ve quite a few authors that I’m loving right now…the Phryne Fisher series by Kerri Greenwood, Louise Penny’s Armand Gamache series, and…I’m just about to dive into my second Steve Berry Cotton Malone book.
This past weekend, a holiday long weekend in Canada, G and I got in plenty of beach walks, as well as time in the city. We even managed outfit photos of my Coffee with Kaffe Dress, Simplicity 1803. The photos showcase the historic Marine Building. While in town, we saw the film Dior and I, and we both really enjoyed it. I was recommended this film by Rachel of House of Pinheiro, and later, by Glenda of So What To Twenty. Thank you both! It’s playing in Vancouver at the Vancity Theatre until May 30th. Not in Vancouver? Check out screening locations here.
Okay, my natter today is going to be pretty specific to sewing this new to me pattern. Yes. As much as I love my Simplicity 2444, I felt an urge for something just a little different. It’s another fit and flare, and it’s another Simplicity, but I find the neckline details really lovely. After an Internet looky to check out recent makes, I did, however, nearly change my mind….the overwhelming consensus was that this pretty dress comes with major fit issues. There was good news though; once the fit was mastered, there was a lot of love for the dress. Here are two of my favourite versions here and here. So…yes…I admit. I was really tempted to take the easy way out, stuff everything back in the pattern envelope, and just sew my TNT 2444. The thought of doing a toile {mock up of garment} seemed. like. so. much work. Well, it’s no secret…I re-thought the matter and decided to sew the toile, and, in doing so, discovered the satisfaction that comes with taking a stock pattern and making it work. And lemme tell ya, this pattern needed some heavy alterations to make it work. If I had sewn this dress straight up, it would have been flat out unwearable. Too big, too low, too wide…sheesh…there was all kinds of wrong going on. As much as I love my finished make, I think there’s room for improvement….plans are afoot for another one already!
Because I had so many fit challenges, and because the finished dress makes me happy, I’m detailing the alterations that I made. Who knows? It might help one of you.
Shortened all bodice pieces 1”.
Sized down one size, and additionally took in the centre front seam ¼ – 1/2″ with a slight curve.
Re-drafted upper edge of bodice front adding 1/4″ – 1/2″ from centre front to outside edge. Added approx 1/2″ to armhole edge.
Re-drafted the yoke front removing 1″ from lower edge. Added approx. 1/4 – 1/2″ to armhole edge. I didn’t make a note of exactly how much I added {{{sigh}}} and will keep better notes next make.
{The above alterations make for a much smaller opening, but it’s a comfortable fit and my bra straps don’t show.}
Re-drafted the bodice side front armhole very slightly to match bodice front.
{The above alterations make for a much smaller opening, but it’s a comfortable fit and my bra straps don’t show.}
Re-drafted the bodice side front armhole very slightly to match bodice front.
I raised the back neck edge 1”. I like this scoop neck design….I can do up the zip without doing gymnastics.
I subbed in the sleeves from Simplicity 2444. After overlaying the pattern pieces from the two different designs, I could see they were a pretty close match. { I wanted a fitted sleeve rather than the pleated options.}
I didn’t use the skirt pattern, opting for my easy-peasy rectangle version. Skirt is lined.Fabric designed by Kaffe Fassett, a brilliant textile artist. It’s titled Paperweight, colourway Pink. I think it’s more coral than pink, but whatev. It’s 100% cotton and great for summer.
I subbed in the sleeves from Simplicity 2444. After overlaying the pattern pieces from the two different designs, I could see they were a pretty close match. { I wanted a fitted sleeve rather than the pleated options.}
I didn’t use the skirt pattern, opting for my easy-peasy rectangle version. Skirt is lined.Fabric designed by Kaffe Fassett, a brilliant textile artist. It’s titled Paperweight, colourway Pink. I think it’s more coral than pink, but whatev. It’s 100% cotton and great for summer.
Sketch of the major alterations to give you a better idea.
‘k, that’s all. More to come soon. I’m playing truth or #sewingdares with Gillian of Crafting a Rainbow. Super fun!
colesworth says
Pretty! Season 3 of Miss Fisher just started here in Aus – have you watched any? So much eye candy for vintage fashion lovers ;o)
Cheryl says
Love it and what a fabulous photo shoot!
Suzanne Carillo says
Oh I love the neckline on this!
Did you chop your hair? Or is it just up? Either way it looks very good!
Brilliant photos too. Nice to see you again lady : )
bisous
Suzanne
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
I did!!! I feel nekkid, LOL! I actually have it parted the 'wrong' way to minimize the drama. But, I am getting used to it. Happy you like the neckline. xo
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Cheryl! Nothin' like posing for the camera in the middle of the city…eep!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
We are JUST now getting the series in Canada. I've been judicious about my viewing. I'm only watching the shows if I've already read the book…the others are being taped for future eye candy! She's so fabulous!
Joni James says
The dress is absolutely gorgeous. Do you work out? Your legs and arms are looking fabulous. Sorry to be so blunt. 😉
The city photos are beautiful. I thought for a minute it might be Seattle! That doorway is a total work of art. And I love the view of the old building in front of the swooping modern high rise. WOW.
I'm thinking I need to find a caftan pattern and sew some up in linen blend. I think I could live in those.
Shybiker says
What a pretty dress. Great design and colors.
Carelia Moran says
What a great dress and pictures! I enjoy seeing you wear pink or blue. I love the street-style vibe of these pictures and I also love that neckline of your dress. The metallic shoes are the perfect compliment for this dress and so your smile.
xo
Carelia
PinhousePlaymate says
Love the dress! Despite all the fit issues you had, it came out lovely:) I have learnt not to shy away from patterns just because someone has problems with it, that's a good way to miss a gem! We are all so different in shape, and making fitting alterations is what makes us better and more confident stitchers. And the satisfaction in making it work, is priceless 🙂
amy mayen says
I love how the clothing you make seems to tell a story. Good for you for doing the research and making the pattern work. The cutout is a nice detail and I love your print! Great pics. The photographer loves you:)
Melanie says
POW! These are the best photos EVER! This is what I want!! How did you get them to shut down the street for you? Although you are lookin' so good in that new dress (I'm in love with the fabric) it would have been easy to sweet-talk anyone to your will. That Marine Building is a beauty, right? Again, these are my fave photos.
Your hair also looks awesome, and we can see dangling earrings with it short. Excellent decision and I hope you love it too. As for sewing skills, you are a schtar!
Heather says
This dress is so pretty, and well worth the effort, I think. The fabric is gorgeous and you look so glamourous on the city streets!
PS: Your hair is super cute too!
Vix says
Such a fab frock and an amazing backdrop, too!” Love the sexy cut out detail on the bodice. Arghhh, potting up. My garden has been woefully neglected …again. xxx
Coco says
Great job on your changes – your dress fits like a dream! and I love love the Kaffe paperweight fabric. Your dress really shows it well.
oona balloona says
i was going to ask the same question, i LOVE it! man, they did a brilliant job on the tapered back. i bet in a couple weeks you'll get used to the drama and play it up…i'd love to see you style it all the way! (can you tell i'm obsessed with curly cuts?)
this is lovely, you've reminded me of a wearable(ish) muslin in my closet. they could be cousins;)
Patti says
What a gorgeous summer dress, Sue! I love the city photo shoot too – you are a fab high-priced model. Thanks for linking up – I cannot wait to meet you in two months!
sallie oleta barbee says
This is so gorgeous, and such pretty photographs too! And I'm also a fellow Armand Gamache fan over here!! I'm actually really sad that I've read all those books, since devouring them last summer was some of the greatest weeks ever!
No Fear of Fashion says
This is a lovely summer dress. (Good choice of shoes and earrings again.) What excellent material, brilliant fabric. The keekaboo (peekaboo) is intriguing. Smart to make it in such a way you don't see straps or reveal too much. What surprised me is the faults in a pattern made by Simplicity. I mean, that is not some sort of a B brand. Shame on them. And very brave to make a toile first. Glad you didn't do it for nothing. I also clicked through to The Sew Convert… indeed her blue and white dress from this pattern is also very nice. I noticed her bodice is longer and her skirt sleeker (is that the word?). No idea whether that would also look good on you. You are the judge of that of course. But oh the shoes that woman is wearing. AWESOME.
The photos your husband made are brilliant. Great points of view. I am so looking forward to coming to Vancouver and see all this with my own eyes. By the way, did they hang up those pink banners just for you? LOL You couldn't have gotten it better if you had that street styled by an expensive agency.
Greetje
No Fear of Fashion says
And did you wear your hair up? Or did you go to the hair dresser for a summer coupe? Nice.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Oona! I think you're right…a week or two and I'll be looking for the drama.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Joni. Seattle and Vancouver are sooooo similar in so many ways. I can totally see how you might initially think these photos were shot there.
I'm feeling half flattered and half guilty about your question, LOL. My favourite work outs are yoga and rebounding…but I've been neglecting my mat recently. At least I'm still getting in some good walks.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Ally! You've been scoring some great thrifted finds recently!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Carelia! It's quite different taking photos in high traffic areas, but it's also fun to show people Vancouver.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you! Very well said…the satisfaction is priceless!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Hey Amy…I will always remember your husband's comment after seeing my photos! Now, that this pattern does work, I'll have to restrain myself from making it twenty times over, LOL.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
BAM! Thanks Melanie! The hair is growing on me, LOL….actually, I loved it straight away, but change is change, and there is that getting used to it factor.
So? Do you think we should take photos on the big streets?
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Heather! You have the cutest hair ALWAYS!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Vix! I know it's not much, but that cut out detail does indeed feel sexy! xo
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you Coco! Every so often I treat myself to a new piece of fabric…it doesn't have to be on sale, or from a thrift store, or for a particular project…and this fabric just begged to come home with me that day!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Patti! Just two months!!!! I'm so looking forward to meeting you too! xo
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Sallie! Louise can't write fast enough for her fans, I'm sure! She is one of the best!!! Thanks for stopping by and saying hi!
Connie says
Look at You! Bopping around town in a gorgeous dress and a new cute haircut. I think I hear the theme song from “The Sue Show!” This seems like it was a bit of work but totally worth it! I have just recently started making “toiles” of new patterns after completely blowing some vintage Lily Pulitzer fabric on a dress pattern that turned out waaaaaaay too tight in the boobish area. I am learning from you….how to be adorable!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Starting from the bottom up….Yes, I did get my haircut just a few days before taking these photos!
I am trying to be braver about locations for photos because there really are so many fantastic Vancouver sights! It's funny about the banners…each neighbourhood in Vancouver has different coloured banners. This was an accident, but now I will have to intentionally coordinate my outfit to the the neighbourhood banner, LOL.
The Sew Convert's dress is very couture looking. And I was very drawn to it…the colour, the pattern {obviously}, and the silhouette she chose. Hmmmm…I have been finding the fit and flare silhouette good for me, very comfortable to wear. I've 'discounted' the more narrow skirt as being uncomfortable, but with a me-made garment I should be able to make it fit properly to my shape. I am seriously considering the thought of making a dress with a sleeker skirt, thank you Greetje! Hey..it's only fabric! {and her shoes are AMAZING!}
I have to imagine that this pattern fit their model correctly? But, there is definitely way too much ease factored into this pattern.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Vintage Lily Pulitzer! Oh, that sounds fantastic!! I'm so sad that the dress was too tight. Saves are so much more challenging to do when something needs to be made bigger. 🙁
You've cued me into what is missing from public photos! My theme song, LOL!
Nice to see you around Connie….I hope you're starting to feel better!
Glenda says
Sue, I always enjoy visiting your blog. You and your whimsical designs make me smile. As usual, you look oh-so pretty and joyful.
Dana Bishop says
I agree, you are adorable in pink. The neckline detailing is brilliant Sue! Great job. I'm hooked on The Brokenwood Mysteries. Not sure if I'm attracted more to the storyline or to the Aussie accent. I can't get enough of “G'Day”.
Melanie says
Well, I was shocked that there are more than alleys in the city! Heck, yeah!
The photos reminded me instantly, ridiculously of course, of Romancing the Stone where they had to cut down all the wires to tow the sailboat down the street. You make quite an impact here.
Marina Ingvarsson says
You look amazing, love the positive vibe!
http://www.bonaupetite.com
Michelle says
HELLO, Sassy! I love this whole look! The shoes, the dress, the hair! You look amazing. And, your photo location is incredible. Also, I totally whacked my hair too! After our last hair chat, I decided to go for it!
Shirl says
love that dress on you, and the new up do!
Shirl
Curtise says
Love your hair, and the gorgeous dress, Sue! That cutaway section and the scooped back are just lovely. And such a fab print.
My goodness, you worked hard to make that pattern fit, It would have defeated me.
Glorious photos, as always. xxx
Annie Case Hanks says
I love Simplicity 2444 and I also have this pattern. I have been wary about the neckline but your version is amazing!! So very special. And it looks like you had a great time in Canada!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
It's definitely fiddly to work through, but worth it in my opinion. Sorry for any confusion, but we actually live here in Vancouver.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Curtise! I had a moment with the pattern fitting, but I'm glad I worked it out, LOL!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Shirl!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Ooooh, how exciting!!! I can't wait to see you!!!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Marina! I try to keep the vibe upbeat here!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Dana! I've not heard of the Brokenwood Mysteries! I love adding new series to my list, and I'm off to check this out! Thanks for sharing!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Glenda! I know you're busy right now, thanks for taking the time to pop by. And thanks for the recommendation of Dior and I. It's a really great film!
No Fear of Fashion says
If you make the dress again with a sleeker skirt, you have to make a toile again. Really, you have to. As you have to adjust the length of the body too, to see what looks good on you.
You have got your work cut out for you. But you were also grateful you did that first toile.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
You're right. What I'm discovering is that with being a short person, my 'windows' of proportions are so much smaller than a taller person. Tweaking the length of the bodice by just 1/2″ can make for something fantastic or meh, LOL. So I 100% agree, a different skirt could mean a different bodice length etc. and a toile is the only way to go. Some sewers make toiles using 'good' but not 'great' fabric, so that if it works, they end up with a wearable dress in a fabric they like. I think it will be worth it…I'm on a mission to find my most flattering silhouette!
Flo says
Adorable! It looks great on you, I love the vintage feel to the style. You had me at the pink anyhow!
Merche Martinez says
Awesome photography, as usual. I really enjoy your posts. I know I tell you this every time, but every time it's true.
Your new dress is lovely, great neckline, and it showcase your pretty, happy face.
sabine says
Oh, Sue these pics are so amazing! You look so fabulous and vibrant in this cute dress. Your new hair cut intensifies this impression.
I am always fond of finding a series of books, best with the same protagonist or the same characters appearing again. Do you know the crime stories of Martha Grimes or Elisabeth George, something like that. I will check whether the ones you mentioned are available here.
Sue, thank you so much for your kind comment. I feel so closed to you althoug living so far away.
Hugs
Sabine
Anna Nuttall says
Hi Sue, I LOVE LOVE that dress – it so frickin pretty. You also look so pretty. It look like you had fun taking these pictures.
http://www.annanuttall.com/
Carolyn says
What a fabulous dress! The print is absolutely beautiful. I'm sure you'll live in it and get compliments for it all summer long!
Rebecca says
Wow! This is one gorgeous dress! I am so happy you were able to overcome the fit issues as now it is perfect! I too love the neckline details with that little peek of skin! I love everything, from the pattern and color to the shape! Sounds like you have been busy but in a good way! Gardening and reading mysteries sounds delightful!
Rebecca
http://www.winnipegstyle.ca
MIS PAPELICOS -Mis P says
Don´t tell me how you made the dress I am useless, lol, give it to meeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
Love ittttttttttttttttt.
I also love your new hair style soooooooooooooooo quirky.
The shoes make the whole combo shine together with your smile.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxx
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Flo! I'm guilty too….anything pink, I'm sold!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Merche! You know…I really enjoy considering us online friends! You are a delight to know, and I love your comments so much!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Sabine! Oh, I haven't picked up a Martha Grimes book for some time. I will add her to my current must read list. Elisabeth George is a favourite of family members, but for me, just a little too psychological. She really is a brilliant writer to evoke such emotion.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thank you so much Anna! I appreciate that you've stopped by to say Hello!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Carolyn, thank you so much! I agree…it will likely be on my most worn list this summer!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Rebecca! I now realize that I am missing the perfect little purse in these photos. I did have my large straw tote…always a necessity when visiting the city…but didn't have a cute clutch or anything. YOU, now you always have the best accessories!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
hahaha….I did! And I am thrilled that you love it, lovely Sacramento! Thanks so much for popping by. You have been missed my friend, and it's so great to see you here!
Rachel says
I LOVE this fabric, and the neckline is gorgeous! Great job, as usual!
Kelly Roy says
What not to love about your dress? Even more when I learned you made so many alterations for the fit. What's the point of wearing something that doesn't fit!
Jan Graham-McMillen says
Hello, Lovely! Crawling back out from under my rock to tell you that you look Mel-licious, and how gorgeous and glam your dress is. Astonishing how easy your floral approach to minimalism works … do let the dress take second place to your big smile. Smile you should … I'm yearning for a trip to somewhere there are tall buildings and everything that goes with them.
I love Phyne Fisher, too … in print and on the tube … season 2 was available recently through Acorn TV, and that's fun for Dan and I. Steve Berry as well. but after the first few a year or so ago, I need to catch up.
Speaking of catch-up, I never will make it, but I'm going out to give it a try. Love you, Sweet Sue!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks so much Rachel! Yes, it was the neckline that attracted me to the pattern! A little different than the usual scoop neck.
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Thanks Kelly! Fit is so important, especially with handmade garments….you're right, what would be the point of wearing something that doesn't fit! Thanks for stopping by!
Sue @ A Colourful Canvas says
Jan! I've been missing you terribly. Things have been busy, even chaotic, for you these days? Do what you can…you know where to find me. And, now I will think fondly of you when I'm picking up a Phryne novel, or a Steve Berry, adrenaline pumping, read! I am just starting to watch some Phryne TV now…it's airing on our local PBS, but I only want to watch episodes that I've already read! Love you back!
dan says
This post is a surprise: I can't remember any post of you in the city!! You, wonderful in pink, and the buildings at your back…soooo lovely!!
SuZan Steinberg says
Fabulous! I love this dress with Kaffe fabric – you look wonderful and so impressed you can wear heels!!!