I purchased this black Italian stretch polyester crepe from Mood Fabrics a couple of years ago. I didn’t have a pattern in mind at the time but while going through my Burda Style magazine this dress caught my attention. I made the dress a couple of months ago and finally got around to taking pictures.
The dress was not difficult to make. The pattern doesn’t call for lining the dress but I chose to do so. The crepe has some stretch to it so I went with a thin black swimsuit lining. I’m happy I chose to do this because the dress is fitted and the stretch is nice to have for ease of wearing. I didn’t want to lose the stretch of the crepe by using a woven lining.
The pattern called for an exposed zipper. I think that adds a nice modern touch to the dress but I chose to go with an invisible zipper. I was going for a more classic look.
This is how I styled the dress for the blog pictures but I’m finding that this dress is very versatile. It looks great with a scarf or longer necklace or with a different style of belt or even without the belt.
So chic! This is the perfect canvas for accessorizing.
Thank you!
Just looked up the pattern online to check availability and you do it more justice than the model on the Burda site. May I ask what size you cut? I’ve tried a Burda pattern but according to my measurements cut a much larger pattern than I needed and got thoroughly discouraged. Seeing this sort of outcome, however, is inspiring!
Thank you. I made my usual size 34. I normally sew a size 8 in the “Big 4” in case this gives you a better reference.
Lucy, your dress couldn’t fit any better, it really looks like a designer creation. I can imagine how you could accessorize the dress in so many ways, with scarves, belts, or even a statement necklace. It is such a classic style too. Congrats on a beautiful project!
Thank you Kathy.
That is the perfect “little black dress.” The belt looks great. So classy. I love the tucks in front.
Thank you Karen.
Gorgeous dress, Lucy! I love the classic look of this dress.
Thank you Linda.
Quite elegant.
Thank you!
Your clothes alway look very well fitted and finished. This is beautiful.
Thank you Diana.
Beautiful classic dress perfection.
Thank you Sharon.
Love reading your reviews, your sewing is always interesting.
Thank you Helen.
Gorgeous!
Thank you Carmen.
You achieved your aim of a classic look. This is very elegant looking, very nice indeed. I love the little pop of colour from the red belt…. Just Lovely!
Very pretty! I like how you styled it. Great shoes too.
Looking good. This dress showcases your excellent posture and body. I don’t know how you manage to walk in those shoes but they look great!
Thank you Nina. I wear those shoes around campus.
Always find your posts so inspiring. Alas I don’t share your body type, but your fine workmanship is inspiration for all sewing. Many thanks for that!
Thank you Barb. I’m glad I can provide inspiration. The online sewing community is a wonderful source of information.