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HIGH WAIST BURLESQUE HOBBLE SKIRT with FISHTAIL, in LUSH BLACK SATIN or MATTE BLACK, custom made

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:28:34 -0500

$135.00

I have found some lush, heavy, rich-feeling black stretch satin that is screaming to be made into a fishtail skirt. It has just the right amount of sheen to it, and is very soft.
It's in limited supply, though, and will only be offered for a short time.
Or, choose the original heavy-weight, densely black matte stretch fabric which will see you through from day to night - just let me know which you prefer in 'notes to seller'.

The design has 4 darts front and back, is very narrowly tapered down the thigh, has a very flary fishtail front and back, a centre back invisible zipper, and a deep, firmly-cinching waistband.

It appeals to many tastes, and may be worn burlesque, Victorian, Goth or pin up style. It can be worn to work or out for cocktails. It's versatile, comfortable, and pretty much wash and go!

This skirt is meant to be worn snugly, and does accentuate all curves. It is what is called in the dressmaking world a 'dramatic cut', ie one that exaggerates or ignores natural proportions. I can't determine for you if the style will suit you or not, however much information I may provide to assist you in your purchase. Please know, however, that no buyer has ever told me they were unhappy with their garment (pls check my f/b). Do use the information provided, and a tape measure, to ensure a good fit.

Custom order: I'll use your exact measurements to give you a perfect customized fit - and of course, plus sizes are very welcome. Also, it can be made to any length, from knee, to mid-calf, to maxi-length, according to your taste.
NB Garment has negative ease, which means it will fit best when your actual measurements are *larger* than the unstretched measurements.

International sales travel via registered international post; domestic post uses express satchels.
Any questions, please convo me!

WINTER WHITE PLAID WOOL TUNIC POCKET DRESS with neck cuff, ooak, S or M

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 02:29:37 -0500

$160.00
For more pics of different views (unbelted version + with collar detached) please visit:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27944466@N05/?saved=1

This is a cute A-line tunic dress with matching snap-on neck cuff/assymetrical collar. It's made from vintage, new (unused) medium-weight wool yardage, a huge vintage wooden button, and a vintage, unused zipper.

It's one of a kind. I had Twiggy in mind, and the kawaii Japanese look, when I made this.

A true winter white color, it sports a fine plaid/check pattern in chocolate and rich caramel.

It's fully lined (sleeves included) in camel peachskin microfibre fabric, which is as soft and light as silk but will keep you toasty warm due to the very tight weave.

The 3/4 length sleeves, darted at the elbow so they won't bag, are bias cut to add interest. The gathered neckline is bias-bound.

It does have POCKETS - very low, slouchy ones - yay!

Looks great with or without a belt - wear with high boots, tights, and a squishy bag and cute hat.

Flexible cut means this will fit sizes US 6, 8 or 10, PLUS it's absolutely perfect for MATERNITY wear!

Meant to be roomy, it measures:
* chest 21" across
* waist 24" across
* hips 26" across
* neckline 20" around (room for a turtle neck)
* 18" and 1/4 around the armhole
* 10" around the wrist
* almost 31" from centre neckline to hem

FULLY HAND WASHABLE, no need to dry-clean! This garment has been pre-washed in eucalyptus wool wash.

Only one of these like this, although I intend to make it in different fabrics. This will see you right through winter!

NB Belt not included
**Gorgeous vintage wood button supplied by 11karri.etsy.com

RESERVED...SHE WALKED DOILY DOWN THE AISLE...ooak linen WEDDING DRESS with ANTIQUE TRIMS, final payment

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 15:58:27 -0500

$275.00
PLEASE DO NOT BUY! - this is a reserved listing
Please see this listing:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30740974
if you wish to discuss your own She Walked Doily Down the Aisle dress :)

This dress is a custom order, similar to, but not exactly the same, as the one pictured in the first three photos (last two pics show actual current dress in progress). Also includes a cropped bolero.

**Postal charge**
...is at cost with no handling fees, for a registered parcel estimated to be over 750g and up to 1 kilo; any overcharge will be refunded.

PLEASE GO HERE TO SEE MANY MORE PHOTOS:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27944466@N05/3078618247/in/photostream/

I have been collecting the vintage makings for some time and will be making more of these dresses, in different colourways - if you'd like to make a custom request for certain shades, please convo me.

GRATITUDE TO SUESTITCHES, to whom this dress is dedicated, who passed on family heirloom laces and trims for me to use in the creation of things of beauty.

STRAPLESS TUXEDO DRESS in BLACK SATIN with corset style top, custom made

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:49:42 -0500

$250.00
THIS IS FOR CUSTOM ORDER, with a turn-around of one week

Oodles of concertina pleated ruffles adorn the bodice of this cute tuxedo dress, just perfect for the holiday season.

Made from black satin with a bit of stretch to it, the bodice is constructed like a corset, boasting ten separate panels (so with the lining, that's 20 panels in all!). Vintage buttons (may vary from photos according to availability) and lace adorn the dickey. Classic yet sassy in black and white!

The full circle skirt is fully lined with a white sheer circular petticoat. It can be made mini-length, or knee length, to your requirements. The satin bow cummerbund belt, which mimics a bow-tie, buttons on at the back.

When you order, measurements I will need are:
1. Bust (fullest point)
2. True Waist (smallest point)
3. Over-Bust (where the top of the dress will sit)
4. Under-Bust (where your bra-band sits)
5. Side Waist length (from underarm to side waist)
6. Preferred length of skirt (taken from TW to hem)
7. Height in feet and inches
8. usual bra cup size

Any questions, please don't hesitate to convo me!

Note: I have estimated postage to be in the heavier weight category (ie between 500g-750g), however if your parcel comes in lighter, any overcharge greater than $1 will be refunded via Paypal. Postage is at cost with no handling fees.

GREEN WOOL TULIP BELL SKIRT, M, on sale

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:44:13 -0400

$50.00
(re-listed due to NPB)

OK, so I made a mistake.
I actually made this skirt for myself but I didn't test it for final fit, and as usual I over-estimated my size (I always think I'm bigger than I am) and it turned out too big. The saving grace is that I do have more of this gorgeous grass-green wool tweed, so I'm offering this one for sale at a discounted price, and will make myself another!

The fabric is a vintage wool tweed in rich, saturated emerald green flecked with caramel. It's VERY bright, like a parrot green, and the fabric is thick and heavy, perfect for the chill of Fall and Winter. It has a smidgeon of acrylic in it - I'd estimate no more than 10%. It's hand-washable (smells like a wet sheep when wet, but that goes) and irons up beautifully with a gentle steam iron. It's unlined as I was testing out the pattern (it's not my own design) and I didn't want to add bulk to the already bulky tweed (a little scratchy so be sure to wear tights). It's both serged and pinked on the inside, and the waistband is lined with a cute cotton print.

It's a supremely comfy cut - super slouchy and very flattering, and somehow, very French in its shape (don't ask me why - it just is). It measures:

* 36" around the "waist"band (actually sits on the high-hip)
* 45" around hips, taken 5" below top edge
* 23.5" in length

I'd estimate it's best for a US sizes 8,10 or possibly 12 (AU 12-14-16), depending how high or low you wear it on your torso.

This skirt is heavy and bulky so postage is a bit more. As always, any significant over-charge will be refunded.

Any questions, convo me!

CUSTOM ORDER...ONE SHOULDERED ASYMMETRICAL RUFFLE SLEEVE BATWING DRESS, with wrist cuff

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 18:06:04 -0400

$125.00
My latest experiment - a one-shouldered pencil dress with a vienetta icecream ripple along the shoulder seam of the sleeve, plus matching ruffled wrist corset.

tapered pencil skirt
3/4 length sleeve cut all in one with dress
1980s, New Wave-inspired
slight bat wing shape
gently elasticated neckline/shoulder
warm, soft fall/winter weight quality stretch fabric
easy fit
matching ruffle wrist cuff with corset style closures

Made to custom order, I will need your:
- bust
- waist
- hips
- preferred length from underarm-hem down side
- wrist circumference

This fabric is not super clingy, nor is the cut a tailored style: it is without darting or closures, but has curved seaming for shape. It just pops over the head and skims the figure. A very easy dress to wear!

NB Dress shown is at least a size too large on model, so forgive the wrinkles!

CREAMSICLE LINEN CIRCLE SKIRT STRAPLESS DRESS with TUXEDO RUFFLE and wide CHERRY MOTIF BELT, US6-8

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:54:50 -0400

$159.00
NOTE: Click on the photos to "zoom" in for more detail. Did you know, you can click again on the zoomed photo, and it will enlarge further? I just discovered this feature, lol!

This pretty strapless dress has something of the folkloric about it, with its full, crisp linen skirt cinched in by a wide cummerbund-style belt.
It's perfect for a bridesmaid, garden party or even an eco-bride!
Features:

* pure, natural linen
* strapless, elasticized in back
* alluring pleat feature over bust
* vintage silk-linen moire tuxedo ruffle
* teeny vintage peach satin buttons
* loose, gently elasticized waist for variable fit (good for mothers to be!)
* very full circle skirt, twirls beautifully!
* fashionable high-knee length
* wide cummerbund features a vintage lace cherry motif and matching adjustable tie - wear front or back

I estimate best fit US6-8. Cup sizes A-B-C for size 6, A-B for size 8 recommended for this one. As always, check measurements to be sure.

* top edge (above bust) stretched to max - 33.5"
* bust - 36" gently stretched out
* waist stretched to max - 36"
* length from underarm to hem - 30.5"

NOTE: Can be made in other sizes - please convo for details. Also, colour accent in ruffle, fruit cameo and buttons can be varied as wished. Besides cherry, other fruit lace motifs available are apple, pear, strawberry cluster.

NOTE: This linen MAY show naturally occurring variations (ie a slightly darker or thicker section of thread here and there); these are not flaws, but a feature of the fabric, nor are they obtrusive (only mentioned for accuracy).
Melon neck ruffle not included.

POSTAGE: The fabric is medium-weight linen and the hem-sweep is huge, making this garment heavier than usual (over 500g) so registered postage rate is a little more. Any over-charge will be refunded.

Le Sac - a strapless Paperbag Dress made from indigo linen, with satin houndstooth sash and satin pockets CUSTOM made

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 20:25:36 -0400

$130.00
This is a strapless 'paper bag' or sack dress made from beautiful indigo linen (so deep a blue it almost looks black). Simple - and simply elegant.

The linen contains a tiny touch (very tiny) of viscose which makes it less crushable than linen normally is, while retaining its beautiful iron-ability, body, and hand.

Of course, it is not just a sac with elastic! The bodice is shaped over the bust and cut on the bias, for ease, and the back is elasticated around the top. The waist is also subtly elasticated (stretches to fit), and the knee length skirt is tapered to a narrow silhouette. Can be made mini or knee length.

The waist is cinched with a silky soft obi sash in red and white houndstooth satin.

There is a hidden pocket in each side seam, also lined in the houndstooth for a peep of colour.

Available in any size, tailor-made to your measurements, with a quick turn-around (ready to ship within a couple of days).

SWEET PINAFORE WRAP and TIE MINI DRESS, upcycled vintage tablecloth tunic, one size fits many

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:08:17 -0400

$89.00
PLEASE ZOOM by clicking on image, then click again to further enlarge image for better detail.

DESCRIPTION:
OOAK (One Of A Kind) adjustable two-tone cotton and linen wrap dress, with bateau neckline with applique detail, and empire-waist ties; mini length (mid-thigh) on most.

MATERIALS:
Fabulous late 60s-early 70s pure cotton print tablecloth in superb condition, with great body and in as new condition, printed with urns, wheels and yellow and white dogwood (?) blossoms; new creamy beige linen.

WEAR:
Many different ways - tied to the front or back; with the printed side worn to the front or back; tied high or low, depending on your tummy or preference.

Due to the adjustable nature of the cut of this wrap and tie style dress, it will fit a variety of shapes and sizes, and while not strictly a maternity dress, it would be perfect for the first 6 months or so of a pregnancy, depending on what size you start out as! Please see last pic of mannequin stuffed with pillow :)

Stay cool and fuss free this summer in linen!

Measures:

* 20" side-side across chest area (so double)
* 37" side-side across waist (ditto)
* 33" long from centre neck to hem

Will fit size US 4, 6, 8 comfortably (wrap 'wings' will not meet in the centre, but be farther apart on a size US10). Wrapped as small as it will go on model, who is US6, 35-27-36, 5'7 1/2".

ready made HIGH WAIST FISHTAIL HOBBLE SKIRT, Medium, US6-8

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:10:12 -0400

$125.00
My high-waisted fishtail hobble skirt is a winner. You're sure to turn heads and receive compliments when wearing it (so I'm told by my customers)! It's figure-huggng and cinching, yet really comfortable to wear.

This one is made from a suiting-style polyester, very smooth, slinky and cool to the hand, which to my mind resembles vintage faille (fabric with a fine diagonal rib woven into it). It has gorgeous drape and weight, and aonly a light amount of stretch to it.

It has 4 darts front and back, is very narrowly tapered down the thigh, has a very flary fishtail front and back, a centre back invisible zipper, and a 4" deep waistband.

This is what is called in the dressmaking world a 'dramatic cut', ie one that exaggerates or ignores natural proportions (it's not pinned to dramatize it - it IS very tapered, although you will have no trouble walking at all, due to the fishtail). I can't determine for you if the style will suit you or not, however much information I may provide to assist you in your purchase. It is meant to be worn snugly - remember your tape measure is your best friend :)

If this size won't do for you, please convo me about a custom order where I'll use your exact measurements to give you a customized fit, for a small added cost.

Measurements (approximate):

* true waist, 29"
(will comfortably fit 28-29" waist)

* top edge of waistband, almost 30"
(will comfortably fit 28.5-30" ribs 4" above waist)

* high hips (41/2" below waist) 37"
(will comfortably fit 36"-38" high hips)

* derriere (9" below waist) 40"
(will comfortably fit up to 40" seat)

* 30" in length from true waist (not incl. waistband)

NB This woven fabric has some stretch, but not lots - what I would call "give". Stated size is an indication only, as size charts and individuals vary - please check measurements against yourself and/or a garment you own.

* Please know, however, that no buyer has ever told me they were unhappy with their garment (pls check my f/b). Do use the information provided, and a tape measure, to ensure a good fit.

International sales travel via registered international post; domestic post uses express satchels.
Any questions, please convo me!

ROMANTIC ART NOUVEAU sheer MINI ANGEL TUNIC DRESS and SLIP in pale mink champagne, XS-S

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:09:39 -0400

$260.00
MORE PHOTOS HERE:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27944466@N05/3949397402/

This flirty little mini dress is made from luxury silk blend burn-out fabric which features a madly large-scale, floral and curlicue all-over pattern in the Art Nouveau style, with the colour the palest shade of mink, with hints of cocoa, taupe, or champignon (mushroom).

I find this colour to be very flattering to cool blondes, redheads, and brunettes alike. Looks magnificent on dark skin!

Accessorized, can easily throw pale pink, pale mauve, or brown tones.

The sleeves are huge, and are trimmed with hand-applied metallic mauve beads, as is the neckline. All edges are trimmed with scalloped embroidery stitch. The silky mocha-coloured under-slip or petticoat is bias-cut. Both pieces pull on over the head - no closures.

The wrap sash, or obi-style tie, is VERY long - plenty to play around with!

Perfect for Melbourne Cup or Spring Racing Carnival - show off those legs and a great pair of shoes!
Great for Fall, too, as the sleeve length and silk provides some coverage and warmth, while the style is still audacious and body-conscious.

Best fits XS-S (up to 35" bust).
Model is 5'8", 33-26-36.

Measures:

* armpit-armpit 19" (or 40" around)
* waist/hips free
* 31 3/4" in length from centre top neck edge to hem.

Thanks for stopping by!

SIMPLE LINEN TRAPEZE, TENT or TUNIC DRESS with DOILEY BIB, sizes US 4, 6, 8

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:33:06 -0400

$85.00
A lovely easy, breezy tent dress to wear when the weather warms up. Adjustable ties at shoulders for fine-tune fit. Gentle, full A-line flare skims the body. Pure linen (bottom-weight - not thin) keeps you cool and fresh. A vintage 1950s cross-stitch embroidered and cut-work doiley is appliqued at the neck as the only adornment.

simple
fresh
feminine

will fit sizes US 4, 6, or 8
Measures:
* 41" circumf. just below armpit level
* 48" around at waist level
* hips, free
* 32" in length from centre front

Can be worn belted for a more body-conscious look (belt shown not included).

This linen MAY show naturally occurring variations (ie a slightly darker or thicker section of thread here and there); these are not flaws, but a feature of the fabric, nor are they obtrusive (only mentioned for accuracy).

NATURAL LINEN TUNIC TENT or TRAPEZE DRESS, with doily pockets and ruffle bib, M

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:33:06 -0400

$85.00
A lovely easy, breezy tent dress to wear when the weather warms up. Adjustable ties at shoulders for fine-tune fit. Gentle, full A-line flare skims the body. Pure linen (bottom-weight - not thin) keeps you cool and fresh. Vintage 1960s doilies make sweet pockets, featuring a branch of 3D embroidered and appliqued citrus fruits. A very old hand-crochet doily becomes a bib-ruffle at the neckline.
Perfect maternity dress, too!

simple
fresh
feminine

will fit sizes US 8, 10, 12 (too large on size 6 model)
Measures:
(coming soon)

I have two more of these vintage appliqued doilies if you'd like the same dress in another size - please convo me.

I will be making more of these in different sizes and using different vintage findings as adornment - do contact me if you need a particular size or trim :)

This linen MAY show naturally occurring variations (ie a slightly darker or thicker section of thread here and there); these are not flaws, but a feature of the fabric, nor are they obtrusive (only mentioned for accuracy).

ONE SHOULDERED ASYMMETRICAL RUFFLE SLEEVE BATWING DRESS, with wrist cuff

Sun, 13 Sep 2009 08:27:28 -0400

$125.00
My latest experiment - a one-shouldered pencil dress with a vienetta icecream ripple along the shoulder seam of the sleeve, plus matching ruffled wrist corset.

tapered pencil skirt
3/4 length sleeve cut all in one with dress
1980s, New Wave-inspired
slight bat wing shape
gently elasticated neckline/shoulder
warm, soft fall/winter weight quality stretch fabric
easy fit
matching ruffle wrist cuff with corset style closures

fits a size Medium (US8-10) and measures:

bust: 35" stretching to 40"
waist: 32" stretching to 39"
hips: 39" stretching to 46"
length 32"
(taken from sleeveless underarm)

This fabric is not super clingy, nor is the cut a tailored style; it is without darting or closures, and just pops over the head and skims the figure. A very easy dress to wear!

NB About two sizes two big for me (in pics), I'm a US6, 5'8"

NATURE GIRL OOAK linen WEDDING DRESS with ANTIQUE TRIMS, to custom order

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:57:16 -0400

$550.00
"She Walked Doily Down the Aisle"

This listing is for a custom-made, natural linen wedding dress with cummerbund, similar to, but not exactly the same, as the one pictured. Also includes a cropped bolero (may be ordered sans bolero), like the one in Ingenue. Of course, it's your party, so the bolero design may be changed, too :)

I will collaborate with you on the colour scheme and styling applied to my strapless fishtail-skirt design, to create a one of a kind gown for your special day, using my vast array of vintage and antique lace, trims, fabrics and scarves.

To give you an idea, the dress shown in the photos has a vintage barkcloth bodice (originally from a 1950s tablecloth) trimmed with hundred-year-old lace; the cummerbund has an antique chemical lace motif feature plus a crochet butterfly taken from a 1930s doily; and the silk cascading sash is a 1960s-70s silk scarf.

You may also, as my last client did, provide me with any nostalgic or heirloom items special to you and your family, which I can incorporate into your gown's embellishment.

Elegant but with a relaxed fit, it has a bias-cut bodice (so fits a variety of cup sizes) with elastic at the top back edge (may be boned at sides if desired). The waist is softly elasticated. The skirt is slim and tapered but not overly so - you won't have to shuffle down the aisle like Morticia! There are no zips or snaps - you just step into this dress (zip can be added if desired).

This gown particularly appeals to those brides-to-be who consider themselves more natural, a little quirky, and who appreciate upcycling and vintage as a lifestyle choice, while still seeking the femininity and grace of good design.

PLEASE GO HERE TO SEE MANY MORE PHOTOS:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27944466@N05/3078618247/in/photostream/
and:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/27944466@N05/
for examples of fabrics etc

GRATITUDE TO SUESTITCHES, to whom this dress is dedicated, who passed on family heirloom laces and trims for me to use in the creation of things of beauty.

**Postal charge**
Is at cost with no handling fees, for a registered parcel estimated to be over 750g and up to 1 kilo, with no handling fees. Any overcharge will be refunded.

la Flamenca...a dramatic decolletee fishtail dress inspired by Lorca, the Tango and the Silent Film era

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 22:34:39 -0400

$269.00
The tragedies of Federico Garcia Lorca, the esprit of the fin de siecle and early 20th Century and the silent film era imbued my ideas for this dress.

I love the severity and drama of it: it is Lorca's widows, it is the tango, it is the face of suffering the flamenco dancer wears when in the throes of expression.

The fabric, thick, heavy, substantial, will cling to fit and celebrate your form from neckline to thigh, then fall in graceful waves to a full, bias-cut skirt with train.

It is cut to reveal your entire decolletage - shoulders, throat, chest - mimicking a ballerina's leotard. The upper edge is subtly elasticated and the fabric is so firm and springy there's no risk of it moving out of place.

It is effectively simple, and completely unadorned. Wear it with a four foot long strand of pearls or blood-red beads.

Best fits size US6, 8 and possibly 10, due to the supreme engineering of this high-quality fabric. Please note, model is 33-26-36, about 5'8" (slightly large in the torso on me). Not to be worn at maximum stretch.

Measurements:

* 33" unstretched armpit-armpit
* 43" armpit-armpit, max stretch
* 28" waist, unstretched
* 36" at waist, max stretch
* 35" at hip, unstretched
* 44" at hip, max stretch
* 52" long from top front edge to hem, approx
* 58" long from top back edge to hem, approx
* NB length springs up some on the body

NOTE: Extremely heavy-weight dress means higher postage - this garment weighs over 1 kilo! As always, I haven't added handling fees. Any overcharge will be refunded; or convo me with your location (particularly Europe or Asia) so I can adjust the postage for you before purchase.

INGENUE ENSEMBLE...PURE LINEN IVORY WEDDING DRESS and BOLERO, ANTIQUE TRIMS, custom made

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 21:04:14 -0400

$309.00
RELAX...AND BREATHE...

Some girls don't want to be trussed up like a turkey with boning and shapers and corsets and foundations on their wedding day. They go for something simpler, more natural, lighter, more innocent...

The Ingenue ensemble is so very affordable, and easy to fit long-distance. Fuss free to wear - just step in and cinch with the obi sash. Pretty angled pleats enhance the bust (great for smaller cup sizes) and a riot of vintage trims, ruffles and buttons troop down the bodice to the waist.

The skirt is a full circle, with added inches at the waist creating the lovely rolling pleat effect which emerges from beneath the sash.

It will be custom-made to your measurements, but because the bias-cut design allows for slight variations in size, any unexpected weight gain or loss nearer to the big day won't be a major drama.

The bolero is designed to sit perfectly atop the dress, providing a natural frame for the bodice feature. It can be trimmed, frilled up, or pared back, to your own taste.

The fabric is a very neutral, natural linen colour and has beautiful body. It takes on the tones of other colours around it, so suits a variety of skin types and hair colours.

I'll work with you to design a ruffle and obi sash to your taste, using my extensive collection of antique laces, buttons and trims which come in all shades of white, cream, ivory and nude. Obi sash can be made from linen, with or without fruit motif or other trim, or even from chiffon. Also looks lovely with a narrower belt.

Besides being perfect for a wedding dress, I can also envision this worn as a bridesmaid's dress (imagine a different lace fruit motif for each maid)!

Since the bolero sells for $69 when purchased alone, the price is reduced when you buy both pieces as an ensemble!
Any questions, please convo!

PURE LINEN BOLERO with tea dyed lace trim, custom made

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 20:20:42 -0400

$69.00
This listing is for a custom-made, fully-lined linen bolero. Trim may be altered, as desired.

I designed this cropped shrug to match l'Ingenue Wedding Dress. It sits so perfectly over the top of it, allowing the lovely tuxedo ruffle to still take centre stage.

Please note, the back bottom edge of the bolero reaches to the bottom of your bra-band; it looks a little longer on my mannequin as she is very petite.

If you would like to purchase both the wedding/bridesmaid dress and the bolero, please see my ensemble listing in order to make a great saving!

INGENUE simply pretty, pure linen and antique laces WEDDING DRESS or bridesmaid dress

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:56:51 -0400

$249.00
RELAX...AND BREATHE...

Some girls don't want to be trussed up like a turkey with boning and shapers and corsets and foundations on their wedding day. They go for something simpler, more natural, lighter, uncomplicated...

L'Ingenue is so easy to wear - just step in and cinch with the obi sash. It will be custom-made to your measurements, but because the bias-cut design allows for slight variations in size, any unexpected weight gain or loss nearer to the big day won't be a major drama.

The fabric is a very neutral natural linen colour and has beautiful body. I'll work with you to design a ruffle and obi sash to your taste, using my extensive collection of antique laces, buttons and trims which come in all shades of white, cream, ivory and nude. Also looks lovely with a narrower belt.

Besides being perfect for a wedding dress, I can also envision this worn as a bridesmaid's dress...you could have a different lace fruit motif for each maid!

Matching bolero also available, at a reduced price for both taking the full ensemble (see ensemble listing).
Please convo with questions.

GOT BRASS...IN POCKET...OLD GOLD STRAPLESS MINI DRESS, with pockets, S

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 21:23:34 -0400

$136.00
So cute...very sassy...it needs to be taken out on the town!
Made from vintage gold rayon satin, the fabric is so glossy that it was hard to photograph. Not quite a mirror finish satin, but a lovely, gleaming, old style, high-quality fabric with wonderful body.

It features:
* strapless bodice which ties in back
* gathers at side bust, for shaping
* super pouffy, floofy gathered mini skirt
* comfy back waist elastic
* hidden side-seam pockets - yes, pockets!
* hand-finished hem with 2" let-down (so no marks on satin)
* fully hand-washable, irons up a treat!
* perfect design for on-line purchase, due to its flexibility
* unadorned style - easy to accessorize

Made to fit a US6 or AU10, with leeway due to the bow-tie, the back waist elastic, and of course, the full, gathered, skirt,
it measures:

* 19" across the bust, side seam to side seam
* 10" bodice length, from top to waist seam, at centre
* 17" in length from waist seam to hem
NB Model is slightly short-waisted, a US6, 5'7". Dress could be filled out more!

OLD GOLD MINI TRAPEZE DRESS with PLEATED RUFFLE COLLAR and removable BOW BROOCH, S, M

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 01:55:53 -0400

$140.00
This OOAK mini dress was hand-built - literally - using classic couturier techniques of draping, folding, tucking and cutting on the body or dress form, rather than using a paper pattern on a flat surface (if you're interested, please check out my blog entry "What is the True Definition of Couture?" http://maisybrownreproretro.blogspot.com/2008/01/my-favourite-fashion-era.html to learn more about just what the word 'couture' really means - it's eye-opening).
It's made of heavy-weight, vintage rayon satin in a divine shade of brass or old gold - really quite unusual. It has a wonderful sheen to it, irons up beautifully, and is fully hand-washable (and is pre-washed).

This dress would be perfect for the mama-to-be as a special occasion maternity dress, due to the generous cut, the tucks, and the central pleat. Plenty of room for a growing tum!

The armholes are cut deep and slouchy, and are bound in hand-made self-bias ribbon. The deep inverted pleat centre front, along with tuck pleats front and back, plus the generous A-line cut, provide the full swing of a trapeze dress, and shape the bust and neckline.

The ruffle neckline was hand-pleated and also attached by hand; it also functions as the shoulder straps of the dress. There are no closures - the dress just slips over the head. The hem is faced with black lace and perfectly hand-sewn in the traditional style.

The sweet matching bow has a brooch pin on the back and may be worn however or wherever you choose, and is conveniently removable for laundering, too.

It will fit size Small to Medium, ie, size US6 (AU10) to say US 10 (AU14). That's quite a large range, given the generosity of the cut of both collar and body. I'm a size US6, 33-26-36, and I would not recommend it for anyone smaller UNLESS she had fairly broad shoulders. It would be perfect on an 8 or 10, and very slouchy and "runway" on a 6.

Length from centre front is 27", from top edge of ruffle, to hemline.

Le Sac, Houndstooth - FULLY REVERSIBLE OOAK empire waist strapless Paperbag Dress, 2 dresses in one, with reversible obi belt, S

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 20:58:10 -0400

$110.00
Here's your easiest dress this summer - a fully reversible strapless le Sac dress which is two dresses in one. It's a no-brainer: just step into it, tie the belt, then walk out the door looking fabulous - the hardest part will be deciding which of the two sides you feel like wearing on the day!

To reverse the dress, just turn inside-out. The seams are fully enclosed; one side of the dress is made from silky black satin; the other from a screaming magenta and black houndstooth silky polyester with a slight crinkle texture. Of course, the obi wrap belt is also reversible, too, so can be worn to contrast each side. The fabric is "wash and go"- this garment literally dries in half an hour!

Like all my le Sac dresses, this is not simply a tube of fabric. The high-waisted bodice is bias-cut and shaped to fit front and back (so no extra fabric pouffing out in back), which also accommodates different sized busts and chests within the size range. The waist is subtly gathered and elasticised, hence comfy, and again, allowing for measurement variation. The skirt is tapered down the thigh creating a sexy pencil shape.

This is OOAK, as the silky, magenta and black houndstooth side is made from vintage 80s fabric and no longer available. It's made to fit a size 4-6; the model is 5'6 1/2", 35-27-36; it hits just a few inches above the knee. Normally I include pockets in le Sac; however, in order to keep bulkiness down, I've omitted the pockets here.

Measures:

- 30" unstretched at top edge
- 37" stretched out at top edge
- 24" unstretched at high waist
- 36" stretched out a high waist
- 41" around fullest part of hips
- 30" in length down centre front

I'll be doing more of these, so if you have any colour or fabric requests, please contact me.

HIGH WAIST TUXEDO RUFFLE BIB corset top MINI DRESS, US6-8

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 19:04:49 -0400

$210.00
Oodles of concertina-pleated, snow-white ruffles adorn the bodice of my latest tuxedo dress, this time in a mini length.

The bodice is constructed like a corset, with ten separate panels (with the lining, that's 20 panels!), all top-stitched and very firmly constructed. Genuine vintage Art Deco Czech glass and metal buttons adorn the dickey (that's what you call the ornamental front bib thingy).

The full circle skirt dips up ever so slightly at the front and is fully lined with a white sheer circular petticoat. The satin bow cummerbund, which mimics a bow-tie, is removable via a snap.

Made to fit a size US6-8, and best worn snug (too large on me, I'm 33-26-36), it measures:

* 34" around the top edge (sits above the bust)
* 36.5" around the bust
* 28.5" around the raised waist (about 2" above natural waist)
* hips, free
* length from waist, front 18", back 19"

For best fit, bust measurement should be 35"- 36"

Lay-by available!