The first dress I made was V1102, an AKO number. I did love the look of it in black as it was on the pattern envelope, but for something a little more casual and fun, I decided to go ahead with this one in a lovely fruity Kokka fabric purchased from Amitie.
V1102
(The model on this envelope really reminds me of someone… can’t put my finger on it though. What do you think?)
Here’s my finished product –
Alterations:
- The bodice of this dress is lined, but rather than self-line it as per the pattern directions, I lined it with a kind of stone coloured cotton – avoiding the pear and apple pattern showing through from the wrong side.
- I also used the lining fabric to bag out the bow at the back – rather than the edges being narrowly double hemmed. It gave a nicer finish I thought 🙂
- The straps at the back of the bodice were shortened by about 1cm – wouldn’t want my top falling down would I!?
- A bust adjustment, going up a about a size.
- Narrowing centre back to avoid gaping around the zip – a snug fit is much nicer 🙂
Turning the bodice through a narrow shoulder strap was a patience and hand strength testing exercise – but I got there in the end!
Regarding the bow at the back, I have heard of someone who made it detachable. I think this is a great idea because if it’s slightly chilly you can’t wear the dress because you can’t wear a cardigan over the giant bow (hello hunchback). Another issue with the bow is that you need someone to ‘do you up’, or you have to do the bow up prior to putting it on and then wiggle into it. That said, the bow is one of the features I love.
I have actually sneaked this dress onto TV before too! Just in the background on the 7PM project – but still TV coverage 🙂
So there you have it – my Pear and Apple Dress! I think it’s quirky and fun – what do you think?
Zx
ZoSews 