Here it is… my first Colette Hazel dress! And, believe me, there will be more of these! Hands down, this is my favorite thing that I’ve sewn to date. I luv it, love it, LOVE it! (Did I mention how much I love it??!!) 😉
The fabric reminds me of a peacock with its bold patterns and colors. In fact, I call this my peacock dress. For a while, I had doubts that it was a good fabric choice for the dress. Would it be too much?? (Thoughts of me looking like I was draped in a tablecloth crept into my mind). But, I’m glad I stuck with my initial gut feeling and used this fun fabric for the dress. I’m so pleased with how it turned out! Sometimes, you’ve just got to take a risk.
The bodice with its three panel construction looks complicated and intimidating for a beginner, but it actually came together quite quick and easy. I love the shape it gives to the dress. It really nips in at the waist which makes it very flattering on the figure. Wowzer!
I cut a straight size 2 for the bodice and didn’t need to make any alterations. Gotta love that! To mix it up a bit, I stole Tasia of Sewaholic’s idea to add more fullness to the skirt. All it took was cutting out a size 18 skirt rather than the size 2 and creating lots (and lots and lots…) of gathers to make it fit the bodice.
My husband thinks it’s a tad too voluminous on the bottom, but I like it. Next time, I’ll try making a straight size 2 for the skirt to see how I like the slimmer version.
The hardest part for me was getting the straps to sit right. It took me several tries and I’m still not quite sure I got it exactly right.
I’ve come to the realization that I’m gonna need to invest in a dress form. Right now, fitting garments involves me contorting my body in the most grotesque positions as I try to pin garments on myself. You should have seen me trying to pin those dang straps on the back of the bodice…. sheesh! Let’s just say it proved to be tricky. If you have any recommendations for a sturdy and affordable dress form, let me know! 🙂
I’m so in love with this dress and can’t wait to make a few more. I’ve got so many ideas for The Hazel pattern in mind. (A peplum top, maybe??!). The pattern is so versatile, so I know I’ll be getting a lot of use out of it. I’m glad I’ve added it to my collection.
Project Details:
Pattern: Colette Patterns Hazel Dress
Size: 2 for bodice; 18 for skirt for added fullness
Fabric: Amy Butler Cameo Hopscotch Pine
Difficulty: Beginner with some experience
Skills: Fitted bodice, inserting pockets, neckline facing (a first for me!)
So that’s it! This wraps up the last of my summer sewing, and now I’m looking ahead to fall. I’m dying to try a few Megan Nielsen patterns. Right now, her Briar Top and Kelly Skirt are begging me to sew them. I’m also wanting to try my hand at the Colette Patterns Juniper pants. But, next on my sewing table I’ve got Simplicity 1801 in the works. All these patterns outta keep me busy for a while, don’t ya think?!
So what are you planning to make for fall?
