The “These Boots Are Made for Walking” Dress
The Facts
Fabric: Rayon Challis from stash
Pattern: Self-drafted
Year: 2012
Notions: Embroidery thread for sewing the rayon
Time to complete: 6 hours
First worn: In front of the mirror
Wear again? Definitely
Total Price: $16
I nearly called this The “Series of Unfortunate Events” Dress when my plans to make a denim skirt for this challenge failed miserably. You see, after two holidays of glutinous meals, my waist measurement expanded significantly (homemade mac n’ cheese is my Kryptonite). After a bit of mourning over my bloated waistline, I manned up and altered the waist of the skirt pattern.
The post traumatic stress of my of holiday chub gave me the bright idea to do one of those 21-day cleanse diets to get back to normal and hopefully start off the year feeling less like the stuffed turkey I consumed. I filled my fridge with veggies, dusted off the blender for smoothies and was on my way. Three days before this week’s challenge was due I started constructing the fat belly skirt. First, I sewed the waistband facing on backwards and only realized it after the seam was trimmed (arrrrrgh!). I later figured out an improvisation for that eff-up and finished sewing. Then, I tried it on….the waist was too damn big! Like, over an inch! I’d only been “cleansing” for a week and my fat belly alteration was obsolete (double arrrrrgh!). Already behind schedule, a serious plan B was in order.
Enter: The loose-fitting, self-drafted dress pattern. Four rectangles sewn together plus a drawstring neckline — a nod to the peasant blouse. Made in an evening.
Even though it’s an understudy, the dress does the job of showcasing my accessory of choice, a pair of well-worn cowboy boots, just as nicely as the denim skirt (may he rest in peace or at least until my next big meal) would have.
I picked up these boots a few years back at a Western wear store in Denver, called Shepler’s. In the fall and during mild winters (like this one) I wear them nearly everyday. Apparently, the footbed is made by Nike…so, they really are made for walking (and running…which I often do when trying to catch the Metro).
Mena encouraged us to get outdoor photos. So, I want it to go on record that in spite of the protests from my frizz-prone fro, I braved the wet weather for this week’s shots.
Go ahead and consider this cheap umbrella my second accessory ;-).
That dress looks lovely so it worked out well in the end!
It’s hard to believe that something so flattering is only four rectangles! Well done and very fun post :)
That is so cute! And flattering… and I want your boots. I harbor secret intentions of purchasing a pair of for real cowboy boots.
Awesome!
Super Cute dress and I also have an awesome pair of boots from Shepler’s.
So cute! I love boots and dresses. Such a great combination.
Very nice! My project was a plan B this week too – it was bound to happen at some point, but week 2? :P
I’m trying to figure out where the 4 rectangles are….did you make raglan sleeves or regular ones (whose name I don’t know)?
Two small rectangles make up the sleeves and two big ones are for the front and back. Before sewing them together, I made a diagonal cut at the tops of each rectangle – which creates a raglan sleeve. The neckline casing and drawstring cinches everything in.
The other type of sleeve is called “set-in”, I believe. But Plan B sewing doesn’t allow for such labor ;-).
This is so cute! I can’t believe you drafted it yourself!
I love your Plan B dress – and it looks fantastic with those boots. I have got to get me some of those!
I LOVE this dress, you look simply beautiful in it!!
Love it! The boots really go well with it and the umbrella sasy sassy yet practical!
Najah-the dress came out great and you had me laughing through your post. I think you look very pretty. My project was also a plan B. I started out with a dress i got form a vintage pattern. I looked like an Amish girl in purple. I think it will take years for my 13yr old son to get the image out of his head.
great improv – and it sets off your boots (and brolly) beautifully
I loved your story, and your improv photo shoot was excellent
You are a riot, fantastic dress, brilliant write up, kickarse boots and smashing photos.
You look so great! That color is fantastic for you- I hope it’s one of your go-to colors.
It looks good. I wouldn’t have thought it was self drafted :)
You look awesome and I love the boots and umbrella! :D
Super gorgeous!! Especially your hair! I’ve never worn cowboy boots, but if they’re making them half Nike, half boot I just might have to.
So darling & fun! Love the umbrella and boots as accessories:)
SO darling & fun! Love the boots and brolly as accessories:)
This dress is beautiful! As are your photos. I’m glad you (and your beautiful fro) braved the outdoors!
Great dress and love those boots!!!
Awesome dress! I love the fabric and I especially love how you told the story of making it. What a fun post.
Simple is always best, as you’ve proved …
Thanks, Ladies!! All of your shout-outs and acknowledgements have turned my happy accident into an even happier one.
You are a very creative lady. And I think you should add modeling to your list! The camera loves you! Can’t wait to see what your imaginative mind comes up with next.
speaking as a fellow fro, you are BRAVE. love the outfit!
Great save! It is very very cute and those are some awesome cowgirl boots.