Wednesday, July 30, 2014

OonaPalooza Print Explosion!

Oonapalooza



It's Oonapalooza month! That's the theme that the Sewcialists have chosen for July: be inspired by the inspired style of Oonabaloona

I first discovered Oonabaloona via Pinterest, long before I started my own blog. Then, when I began following the sewing blogosphere more closely and started this blog, I realized who she was in this commmunity. Always fun and inspiring and full of creative ideas...and lots and lots of maxi dresses and crazy prints too!

I always thought that people who are short like me should not wear maxi dresses. Look at Oona, I thought, if only I was as tall and glamorous as she is, I could carry off some of those maxis she wears! Imagine my surprise when I finally clued in that I am just as tall as Oona -- nearly 5'2"! Unfortunately the "glamorous" part is not so easy...oh well!

So Oona's inspiration for this outfit is twofold: first, her example has given me the courage to try a maxi dress, and second, to try one in a fabulous floral print. I really like it, much more than I'd expected to!


I used an old pattern that I have had for probably close to 20 years but had never even cut out. It's Butterick 4597. I didn't alter it, as I wanted it ankle length, but I did grade out with an extra inch from the waist down. If I make it again I'll also shorten the torso by an inch, just so the waist flares a tiny bit higher up.

The pattern is designed for knits, but had a long zip in the back. Since I used a stretchier knit than called for, I eliminated the zip and just sewed up the back. Since there is some shaping in the back seam, I didn't cut it on the fold, just stitched up the seam.

Full view

I love that there is a knee-high slit in centre front
but it is hard to notice standing normally --
 here it is pulled over slightly just to show it off
And again



Just I was taking this last photo a bit of sun came 
through the clouds like a spotlight ;)

This was a fun pattern to finally attempt, and I love how it is fitted but not super tight. I never thought I'd actually like a maxi dress, but thanks to Oona's example I gave it a try, and really love it!

This is nearly my last make for this month of pattern stash sewing; another post will be forthcoming with my final makes. It's been an interesting experience, but I have many thoughts on it...

12 comments:

  1. That's seriously gorgeous, beautiful print and a really pretty shape...who knew a pattern with those bland pics on the front could become something so pretty...and wonderful that you now know the fabbiness of maxi dresses thanks to Oona.

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    1. Thank you so much! I do love this print -- it kind of reminds me of embroidered tapestry in a weird way ;) Yes, I'm a convert to the maxi...it feels great to wear.

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  2. Love this dress it certainly has a Oona look about it. I love that you have tried a style and fabric you wouldn't have normally tried and it looks great

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    1. I really wasn't sure about this but thought I'd try -- so glad I did because I love it! Yes, sometimes it is good just to try something new :)

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  3. Oh this fabric! Love it. This shape is so good on you.

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    1. Yes, the fabric is rather spectacular -- thanks for the compliment!

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  4. A fabulous dress! You look great.

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  5. What a great looking dress!!! I am 5'2" and like you I have kept away from the maxi. I think your dress works because it is close fitting so you don't look like you got lost in the dress!

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    1. I think you're right -- if it was a really wide skirt I might feel a bit swamped in it ;)

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  6. so so so so BEAUTIFUL! shorties in maxis, always! the colors are just stunning, that sun had no choice but to come out and spotlight you when it got a glimpse of these fiery hues. i swear i'm getting truly jealous of all these vibrant maxis popping up!

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    1. Thanks for your inspiration! It was really fun to try out a maxi for this celebration of your style :)

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Share your comments, ideas or suggestions here -- I am always interested in hearing from readers. It's nice to have a conversation!