Today is picture day at Miss L’s school, which meant I felt compelled to sew something for her to wear. As luck would have it, Sarah mentioned last week that she needed an updated Kyoko sample for the shop, so I decided to knock out both tasks with one dress.
I’ve sewn several of the Kyokos and the pattern continues to be one of my favorites. I love the style and fit, as does Liesl, which certainly helps things. Of course, having sewn it so many times, I wanted to see if I could mix things up a bit. I vaguely remembered seeing a version with ruffles and decided to try one myself.
The fabrics are a new line by Alexander Henry and actually weren’t the first choice. Initially, I’d pulled the same fabrics in a colorway that’s more “me” (aquas and pinks) but decided to go with more Fall colors instead. I can’ really explain why I did it but looking at the dress tells me I was right to make the switch (although I’ll probably grab some of the other fabrics to use for another outfit).
The bodice is lined and I skipped the neckline binding, instead adding a 1/4″ seam allowance and sewing the lining and exterior together. I understitched the lining to the seam allowance so no topstitching shows on the neckline.
I again skipped the binding on the hem and sleeve edges, replacing it with ruffles. Oh, how I love those ruffles! They were worth all the math and measuring to figure them out. The ruffles are finished with a rolled hem, which I’m only meh about: I didn’t have any brown Wooly Nylon on hand so just used regular serger thread and it doesn’t have the fullness I wanted. Not really a big deal and I doubt the majority of people will even notice so I’ll just keep quiet and live with it.
The obi is probably my favorite. I was on the fence about which fabric to use and Sarah suggested I make it reversible. Brilliant! Liesl asked to wear the apples today but the reverse is the same yellow fabric used on the ruffles. Overall, I think it’s one of the tamer Kyokos I’ve made but, oh, how pretty it is!
By the way, I’m teaching a Kyoko class (which will include tips for modifying the pattern like I did) on Oct. 9.
dangitAnge
I want to come to the class! I still haven’t cracked open this pattern. Maybe next week….
.-= dangitAnge´s last blog ..School gone awry =-.
Marie
SO pretty! I love the ruffles! What a great addition/modification to that pattern.
.-= Marie´s last blog ..blood- sweat- & tears =-.
Stephanie
This is gorgeous! L is so beautiful and that fabric combo is amazing!
.-= Stephanie´s last blog ..Let’s Make Whoopie! =-.
Fiona
Beautiful dress, fabric and girl. I hope she realizes how lucky she is to have such a talented mother.
I think I’ve crumbled and agreed to make something for Philippa, after my solemn vow not to do it again. Will I never learn?! I’m hoping she’ll forget I ever mentioned it!
.-= Fiona´s last blog ..Nanaimo Christmas Shopping Events =-.
Lisa {a house full of moxie}
So beautiful!! That reminds me… I need to get something sewn for Gia for pictures. Hers are Friday.
michal
so so cute!!! I just finished a Kyoko for my girl and I so wish I didn’t… I’ll take example from you next time, as it is so pretty!
.-= michal´s last blog ..Burda 9652 – baby boy romper =-.
Tifani
Oh wow do I love that! It is stunning!
Maree @ Farmyardcrafts
Wowsers! Gorgeous dress!! Our kids get their photos done in their uniforms. BORING!