Little lady in red: Simplicity 8668

I did not have high hopes for this dress, but it managed to surprise me. This was a stash busting exercise. I'm trying to reduce my stash so I don't have to leave any behind. Now I am more than happy to leave clothes behind (even unworn clothes - they are all handmade in my house these days) but I simply cannot bear to part with my fabric. Some would say that this makes no sense at all.

So after looking through my patterns, I found this beautiful little vintage design, Simplicity 8668.

The fabric I used was a ponte knit from Tessuti Fabrics. Both colours were picked up as remnants last season when I was slightly obsessed with ponti knits. The pattern size meant that this dress was destined for Miss Four, but she was quite adamant from the outset that she liked neither the red, nor the beige, and simply wouldn't consider it if I didn't add some pink (I tried to win her over with these pretty little vintage buttons).

I didn't make many changes to the pattern. Instead of inserting an invisible zip in the back, I used loop closures and a long slit. I also shaved a little off the sleeve caps to reduce the ease. I probably should have lengthened the dress too, but I didn't.

My one disappointment is in not lengthening it. Miss Five fell in love with the dress at first sight and it fit her well enough, except for the fact that I could see her little bottom. Miss Four reluctantly partook in the photos. It's probably the last time she will wear it. I, however, think the dress is lovely. It reminds me a little of Agent 99's fashion in Get Smart (the original of course!) and how comfy is a ponte knit for little girls to play in?!

 

And now for the serious model poses...her idea, not mine!