Clara does not look too happy but I assure you she loves the new apron dress I sewed for her. I know she loves it because it's been three days now that she's been wearing it. She just does not love taking pictures.
I'm using great discipline this year in only sewing out of my existing fabric stash. Luckily there was something there that interested Clara - she is normally very picky but was excited to have a dress that matched her stroller. The fabric is from Ikea's line a few years ago. It was not my first choice for this dress because of the heavy hand but it works.
I wish I had more information the adorable sewing pattern that was used. It is from Iroha, a Japanese designer who is no longer producing patterns.
I have to admit sifting through the Japanese instructions weighed heavy on my heart as I thought about those affected in the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan. My heart and prayers were with them as I sewed.
Japanese patterns never disappoint me. The jumper is paired with the Swiss dot blouse I made for Maryanna three years ago. I love that this blouse has seen so much wear! Reminds me that sewing really is worth it, especially when you have a great pattern and use quality fabric. Still not sure the Ikea fabric will stand the test of time but it is fun for now.
The back of the dress is really girly.
Clara is a girly dress up kind of gal. You're more likely to find her in costume so I'm trying to add more "costume" to the everyday clothes I sew for her - that way I don't have to beg her to wear them. You can see below I added a ruffle lining similar to the ruffle I added to my thrifted wool dress.
Here's the "costume" in twirl action:
Here's the "costume" ready to go:
And for all her patience in taking pictures I put on her favorite Japanese video - a gift from Marie' so many years ago.
No one in our family understands Japanese - we are just huge fans of all things Japanese despite the language barrier.
Al I love this dress! The back is SO cute! I know that she LOVES matching the stroller.
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this dress too. So really no thoughts on the pattern? That is just the sort of thing I'm looking for. Beautiful job sewing Al!
ReplyDeleteHey Cath-
ReplyDeleteIroha was a mom who designed incredible patterns out of her home in Japan. I've got a handful of them and you are welcome to spend a day tracing them the next time you are in MI -
Check out banberry place for unique patterns but keep in mind they are going to run large. Here is one I love!
http://www.banberryplace.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_4&products_id=119
Thanks Al! You're on the next time we're in MI. Love that pattern- it reminds me of this dress that I saw in a catlogue:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.chasing-fireflies.com/vintage-silver-dress/productinfo/25172/
I've been planning to just wing it and try to make my own. We'll see how that goes. :O Why are great designs like this so hard to come by...? LY
Actually I did see this fabric at IKEA. Just not in the weight you described and it was grey patterns on white back ground.
ReplyDeleteSo fun to see the pattern being used and the final dress looking so darling on Clara. Will have to have schedule a conference call for our next projects. Maybe next month. Start planning!