The bride-to-be came over tonight to have her measurements taken. I think I am as giddy as she is! At first I thought she wanted the kimono sleeve version of this Stephanie James dress, but it’s the corset bodice look she going for (see above). The base pattern for the project will be Simplicity no 4070 (a big shout out to the helpful folks at Pattern Review who helped me with the pattern suggestions!).
Right now I see three challenges that needs to be figured out:
How to make the hem scalloped. The bottom is a circle skirt with scallop edging, but you can’t get scallops all around when making a circle skirt. So what is the best way to get lace scallop all around? Melissa (who owns the book Bridal couture) suggested that I attach the scallop edging separately. Another option I am pondering is using gores, maybe 8-10 or even more?
Any ideas on the best method?
The tulle lining. Should it be a separate skirt or attached to the dress?
The ribbon organza embellishment. We suspect it’s made of real silk, but the only organza ribbon that the bride-to-be found in notion stores was synthetic. And it shows! It just doesn’t look as refined as the original. Plus the original ribbon has an ombre look, that looks hand dyed. Is there such a thing as silk organza ribbons? Or do I have to cut it by hand?
Any ideas would be more than welcome. I will buy the Bridal couture book that is out on cd in February, but it would be great to get some additional input.
