The Blue Dress is Finished!!!!

Having finished my dress, which took over a month (gasp!), and having posed in the mirror last night examining it, I have some conclusions.

Total cost: $25.26 (not including labor, because my precious sewing time is worth one million dollars an hour ;) )

Overall, I like it.

I am very satisfied with my belt and covered button.

If I were to make it again, the only thing I would change is to make the sleeve part into a separate bolero. The pattern wants it to be attached. I think that contributed greatly to the lumpy back (see below), and that it would look better separate.

Oh, and I would do a normal side-boob dart (oh, excuse me, underarm) instead of the three poofy tucks the pattern wants.

My changes: shorten hem, lengthened all darts (skirt front and back, all darts on jacket back)

Posing (for my self-timer)

Close-up of tie and belt detail.

See how the upper back is so lumpy? I managed to lessen it, but couldn't get rid of it completely.

Front view- It fits like a glove.

I wanted a shot of my hair. I call this the "Mormon bride." It reminds me of of the hairstyle of all the women who were on the polygamous compound in Texas. It is the only hairstyle I've ever discovered where I can hold up all of my hair with 2 big bobby pins.

As you can see, the pattern would also make a cute strapless party dress.

Finally, look at how much of my blouse I've put together today! I plan on finishing it tonight!

fin.