Monday, July 2, 2012

Silk Dress

My husband and I with our son

The finished product-- or at least the top half



Buying the silk in Shanghai
Our oldest son got engaged shortly before we left for China, so I bought some silk to make a dress for the wedding.    I didn't know exactly how much fabric I needed, so the lady at the store measured me and told me how much I needed for the simple sheath dress with short sleeves I had in mind.  I added a half meter just in case and was very thankful I did since I later changed the pattern to include a asymmetrical flounce which I drafted myself with the help of a friend.  I embroidered matching lace (design from John Deer) for the top of each cap sleeve and for the top of the flounce.    The beauty of the dress is in the fabric more than the sewing of it although I was pleased with how it turned out.  Ironically it matched the bridesmaids' dresses almost perfectly, and the mother of the bride also bought a dress in a very similar color, so we all matched.
lace at the top of the flounce

Lace on sleeve cap