Stunning Silk Dress

I worked right up until the very last minute, but it's finished. And, I absolutely love it! (Click to enlarge the photo above!)

Vogue 8382, using 2 yards (60" wide, cut on the cross-grain) of ombred silk from Gorgeous Fabrics. I also used 2 yards of silk organza for added structure (the silk is lightweight and a little sheer) and 2 yards of Ambience lining. When I first saw this fabric, I knew I had to have it. Get on Ann's email list, become a "Facebook Peep" and you'll find out about the great sales (I saved 26% on this one) early! Here is my earlier post explaining the pattern challenges of working with a ombred fabric of this weight. Ann, thank you so much for carrying such a fabulous fabric! I got more compliments on the unique-ness of the fabric, than anything!

The finishing touch was the beaded segments to turn the center front "notch" into a keyhole opening. When I was finally able to put it on, the opening wasn't too deep (I raised it a couple inches from the pattern), but anyone sitting/standing to my side would get a free show. Albeit, not a great show, but nothing I wanted anyone to see! So, I ran to the local bead shop (5 hours prior to party starting) and found a few pretties to close the gap......and make earrings to match! (The beads are smokey black, not brown, and the stones in the center are pinky-mauve. $10 for everything!)You can also see above that my "handstitching the lining" skills are getting better! The pattern has you just line the bodice, but I needed it lining all the way through. Between the silk and the beads, no one would ever guess this dress is homemade!
The fit of the pattern was great, I'll make it up again in spring with a cotton or rayon, and ignore the center front notch. There are only 4 pieces, and it "should" go together very quickly. My fabric and structure choices added on a lot of time in handstitching, but it was worth it. The cap sleeves are very comfortable, not too restricting. I would recommend making a muslin though, if you have large upper arms and to perfect the front neckline.

If I had a formal event to wear it to, I would've made up this BWOF dress from the April 2009 issue. The color gradation and drape of the silk is perfect for the silhouette and the style, so if you have a daughter who needs a prom dress, it would also be stunning!