The larger than life challenge! Using an oversize print with an oversize feature in a ballgown.It took me quite a while to decide on which fabrics to use. I even searched the curtain and manchester departments in the fabric store. Most of these fabrics were just too heavy to use on a doll this size, although there were some very interesting machine embroidered pillowcases and sheets.
I ended up with clear bright colors because I thought they would be more effective and have a better overall effect for the finished design. We were given directions to use the silhouettes provided in the photos so that was inhibiting to begin with and as it turns out shouldn't have been because I could have expanded on that and not been quite so literal. That said I went ahead and chose a big black and white spot with red and white accent colors in the applique.
I started off with everything including the kitchen sink and then began removing pieces until I was left with a more wearable creation :-) When I had finally decided on my design it was then time to start the applique. Well, this gown gave me more grief in the sewing department that the first 3 challenges put together. I think my machines decided they had done enough tricky stuff and spat the dummy! Especially when it came to the butterfly crossing from the bodice to the skirt!The overlocker played up, the satin stitch played up and even the zip broke AFTER I had put it in! The mittens were a nightmare. This little baby was just jinxed in the sewing department.
Sewing aside, I did enjoy the challenge of using an oversized print to advantage on this gown. I was also able to incorporate some of my favourite selections in design i.e. spots, butterflies, black, red and white in combination and using cotton as a fabric base.
My notes are below with my reasoning behind the design and photos of the finished outfit.
FLIGHT OF FANCY
I wanted to create something that was elegant, striking and audacious. I believe my oversized print presents the perfect opportunity to introduce bright, bold colors. Black, red and white were my choice as I felt they made a wonderful contrasting statement.
- The "element" I have used is the butterfly silhouette applique splashed on the bodice and edging onto the pleats of the skirt. I love the essence of liberty and reckless abandon that the butterfly symbolizes. I have combined this image with the soaring wings of the giant white bird, again symbolic of freedom and a sense of adventure without constraints.
- The eye mask and mittens add to the overall effect without detracting from the contrast elements in the gown. They are a subtle addition that I feel add a sense of theatre and an air of mystery to the complete story.
- I have carefully used silhouette styling to make my statement through color and size, and have adhered to a distinct Japanese flavor mostly through my chosen colors and the use of the butterfly motif.
- I have kept my applique to the front of the ball gown as the print is quite large and I believe the back of the gown benefits from the monotones with a surprise "element" observed as the gown swirls and twirls on the dance floor!
- I used a simple but elegant cut for my gown to allow the print and appliques to dominate.
