Here comes Hannah-banana dress!

Dear Sewcialists – it is that time of the year again, IPM is here!!!

Fortunately, or unfortunately, I have learned from past year that IPM is pushing me to try something new. Weather I like it or not is a different question, but even discovering that you don’t like something – it is not a failure, it is just data, information that helps you in future choices and endeavors. 

This particular pattern I have eyeballed from last year, but ran out of time to sew it up to participate, therefore it was my first go-to choice when the topic for first week was announced! What attracted me particularly  – those back panels and “origami” construction that made it so special. In the back of my head I had some concerns but I decided to give it a try.

Those of you who follow me whether it is Instagram, or on my blog, know that I like more of a simplistic approach of fashion and clothing. I am a firm believer that fashion can be clean, simplistic yet elegant. Sometimes the fabric choice can make an outfit, sometimes the silhouette, but anyway…. enough of my rambles and philosophy, let’s get to the dress!

Pattern: Hannah dress from Victory Patterns

Fabric: medium weight blue crepe and medium weight salad green crepe

Additional details: tan zipper

Process and remarks: the process was a little lengthy. Solely because on a regular basis I have my got to pattern that I use to construct whatever I have in my mind, and they have tried time and time again and I know that they are perfect for my body. This was new for me!!!

I am going to mention 3 quick things, but you can read full list on my blog.

1. Seams. Not used to the seam allowances included into the pattern. I like my seam allowances quite narrow – I don’t like any kind of bulk. I have trained my hand and eye sight to measure just what I need when I cut, so the included seam allowance threw me off a bit.
2. Too much fabric. I like to think through how do I use my resources and although the design and overall idea of the dress is beautiful – there are a bit one too many folds of fabric that are particularly adding any function to the dress. But that’s my opinion. I like to work with remnants and figure out creative ways to use them, everyone is different.
3. Heavy. The dress due to so many layers is a it too heavy for my taste. My fabric choice of course did not help – in the shoulders you can especially feel the weight of the folds.

It came out beautifully and it is a dress for a unique occasion, I cannot say I will be wearing it every day, but for a night out at a quirky bar for a cocktail or two – why not? 😉

The only change I made – I inserted zipper instead of button plaque. I think it adds modern detail to the dress.

What do you think, ladies?

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