It has been way too long since I posted here, but I promise I have not given up my vintage sewing obsession! I can always count on inspiration on these pages, not to mention all the new-to-me blogs I discover. Thank you for keeping me motivated!
When I was contacted by Deirdre of Vintage Pattern Lending Library about testing this stunning Ceil Chapman pattern, I was ecstatic! Ceil Chapman is a favorite of mine, and I was lucky enough to reproduce another one of her designs a few years ago, so I knew I was in for some fun, and a great challenge.
The biggest issue I had was figuring out the pleat lines on the skirt pieces, and once I had that I was off and running.
All of the seams were finished, including a waist stay, and a zipper guard made of grosgrain ribbon – and then the darn thing would not zip up. Even with an extra pair of hands, the vintage metal invisible zipper would not make it past the waist seam when I put in on my body. Aargh!!
I had a bit of a tantrum, and decided it would be best to put the project on hold.
Then the weather started improving and if I was going to wear the dress anytime soon (it’s made of wool), I needed to get to it!
A strip of silk organza and a standard nylon zipper came to the rescue (a similar fix can be found at the end of this post – what is it with me and invisible zippers lately!?!).
Now I have two Ceil Chapmans in my closet! And if I ever find a spectacular fabric suited to the design, I just know I will be making this one up again.
More pictures of the finished dress may be found over on my blog, Lilacs & Lace. I am so very glad I figured out a way to make this dress work!
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