The “Lily the Pink” Dress

The “Lily the Pink” Dress

This was actually my first (successful) version of the boat-neck bodice from Gertie’s Ultimate Dress Book – a pattern I’ve now used multiple times in different variations. I made this one with fitting advice from Gertie herself at one of her dressmaking retreats in Beacon, NY, back in June last year. This is the dress I wore for my Masters graduation ceremony in July.

The "Bow-dacious" Dress

How long does it take to plan a sewing project? In the first picture I ever saw of Dita von Teese back in 2001, she wore a black vintage dress with enormous bows on the pockets and neckline - I’m guessing it’s a cusp late 30s - early 40s number. I fell in love with it instantly. Years later I came across the dress again on Pinterest, and saved it to my sewing inspiration file.