The “Cherry Checked Silk” Dress
Name & Location: Laura Pedersen-Schulz (Laura Mae), residing in Novato, CA
Blog: Lilacs & Lace
How long have you been sewing: I have been hand sewing as long as I can remember. However, it was not until high school that I started sewing my own clothes with my mom’s old Singer sewing machine on the kitchen table. That was over 10 years ago, and I haven’t looked back since!
Why did you want to commit to The Sew Weekly Challenge: For the challenge, of course!
What do you love most about sewing garments: There is something so incredibly rewarding about creating an outfit from a length of cloth. I love the fact that I can imagine an outfit in my mind, and create and wear it. That, and the fact that most off the rack clothing just doesn’t do it for me these days. Why buy something boring when I can make something I love?
What do you hate most about sewing garments: Sometimes I wish I could magically create a finished garment from one of the many ideas floating around in my head. Time is the enemy! If only I did not have that pesky job! And I also hate being unable to find the perfect fabric for a dress. No matter how much of a stash I amass, that new project always requires new yardage!
What do you want to accomplish this year with regard to the challenge: I want to stay inspired and not get bogged down with any one project. Also, this year I am hoping to add more separates to my wardrobe. Hopefully the short time frame will steer me toward skirts and blouses instead of sewing only complicated dresses!
Your biggest non-sewing goal of 2012: De-clutter my life!
What are your favorite sewing/fashion blogs: Gertie’s was the first sewing blog I came across and will be forever thankful for the introduction to an entire world of online sewing enthusiasts. I also love Casey’s Elegant Musings, The Sew Weekly, Male Pattern Boldness, Wearing History, My Happy Sewing Place . . . there are just too many to list here!
The “Cherry Checked Silk” Dress
The Facts
Fabric: Dupioni Silk from fabric.com, Cotton from stash for interfacing
Pattern: Advance 5574
Year: 1950sNotions: Hug Snug Seam Binding from etsy.com, Vintage Metal Invisible Zipper from etsy.com, Gutterman silk thread, Maxant Buckle Kit
First worn: May 2011
Wear again? Absolutely!
Total price: ~$30.00
So adorable! Love the fabric and the pattern.
Ooo, that is a fab dress and you look fantastic in it!
All your dress are so pretty. Love it.
Glad you came over to sew weekly. I really like your blog and this dress.
I absolutely adore this!
Lovely gingham dress, looks great on you:)
Yay for vintage sewing! And it suits you very well! ;)
separates are a great idea but I hope you still have time for some more dresses such as this – gorgeous!
Your dress is simply stunning!
Glad to see you on the Sew Weekly. I’ve been enjoying your blog for a few months.
This is sooo cute! Great job!
Beautiful!