Gucci-inspired suit and coat  

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Colorblock Knit Dress

"10-6" Work Dress

Couturegirl, member

3 users recommend

Pleated Neck & Sleeve Detail

Inspiration: Alberta Ferretti's Fall 09 collection of pleats, wool skirts and sashes; and Catherine Malandrino's mix of prints.

Front

Back

Waist Sash and Skirt trim detail

Pleated Neck & Sleeve Detail

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I wanted to create a work dress that would be appropriate for a professional environment, but with a bit of interest thrown in to keep it from looking like your "average" 9-5 attire. 

My inspiration came from Alberta Ferretti's Fall/Winter 09/10 collection.  I love the combination of the wool skirt with the silk/satin waist sash, as well as the look of the pleated tops, high loose necks, and pleated full sleeves. I was also intrigued by Catherine Malandrino's combination of prints of her wool herringbone skirt and silk chiffon top.  The mix is very different and interesting, without being overpowering.  The colors are inspired by Autumn, my favorite time of year.

The main fabric is 100% wool - jersey on top, and woven on bottom.  For the top, I used Marfy pattern #1757 and modified it by adding more pleats to the neck and sleeve cuffs, and gathering the waist more to give a blouson effect.  I drafted the skirt myself: there are 6 panels, with both CF & CB panels on the bias. Both pieces are joined at the waist.

For the Waist Sash, I used silk tie fabric: It is salesman's yardage to show retail buyers the combination of men's tie patterns & colors available.  I cut two pieces on the bias, sewed them together, and turned right-side-out. I pleated only at both open ends and inserted into the left side seam, along with an invisible zipper.  I cut the sash slightly smaller than my waist size, so it "stretches" when I zip up and creates the pleats themselves.

I used this same silk tie fabric, cut on the bias, for trim along the Front & Back skirt panels, and at the Sleeve Cuff. For the back Neck closure, I covered buttons with the silk and make thread button loops. I added a covered button to each Sleeve Cuff, but used snaps for closures instead of buttonholes, as I like the smoothness of the jersey fabric.

The interior Skirt is finished with simple serged seams and a hand-stitched hem. I left the Top seams unfinished as the jersey does not unravel and I wanted to keep the top light and airy (serged seams would add weight). The dress is unlined for the same reason - to keep it light and unstructured.

This dress is appropriate for the office, different enough to stand out, and comfortable to wear.

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Comments (3)

FiberOfHerBeing writes: I really love the detail of the sash and skirt. What a beautiful juxtaposition of heavy, neutral plaid and vibrant accent colors. Well done!
Posted: 9:53 pm on October 11th

churunga writes: Nice design and excution. The back, however, is not flattering.
Posted: 10:09 pm on September 30th

Sweet_Dee writes: I really like how unique this is. I love that sexy deep mauve-ish colour and the hot sash pair with the oh-so-serious tweed! Very flattering on the model as well. Well done!
Posted: 6:22 pm on September 26th

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