Vogue 8532

24 Dec Vogue 8532

Santa Baby,

Leave a sable underneath the tree for me…… 🙂

While waiting for Santa, I sewed one more holiday dress, this one for a January wedding.

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I have never seen a Carolina Herrera I didn’t love which includes this cobalt blue paisley silk brocade from Mood Fabrics.

Yum……. I was sold on the color alone until the fabric arrived. The quality of this brocade is unlike any I have seen or touched. It’s that good, and once again I found myself scared to cut my fabric.

What would Carolina do?

Santa baby……. give me an answer!

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 I made a muslin from an old Vogue pattern –  8532, now available on Etsy and Ebay.

8532

Then, an amazing thing happened. It fit perfectly with only a minimal length adjustment in the bodice!

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No sliding off of the shoulder, no gaping neckline.

I believe! I believe!

Fortunately I was able to fast forward sewing the dress after making the muslin. I lined it with perfectly matching Bemberg rayon lining,

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and veered into the pop scene with a metal zipper.

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One tip I must share came from the recent Craftsy class I bought,

40 Techniques Every Sewer Should Know – Gail Yellen

I learned how to remove excess ease from a sleeve cap in a matter of seconds. Typically the perfect amount of ease is approximately 1 ¼ – 1 ½ “.  Gail Yellen explains how to measure for and removed excessive ease from a sleeve cap by

1: measuring the distance between the single and double notch on the sleeve and  in the armscye.

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2: If the difference is greater than 1 ½ “, simply skim off the top of the sleeve.

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That’s it.

And now all is calm, all is bright.

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Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night 🙂

Disclosure:  Recently I became a Craftsy affiliate and receive compensation when you purchase classes or join Craftsy. I agreed to  become a Craftsy affiliate after several successful Craftsy experiences. With the exception of Sew the Perfect Fit, I have purchased all Craftsy classes and provide an honest class review and opinion.The compensation received will never influence the content of this blog.

goodbyevalentino
goodbyevalentino@gmail.com
158 Comments
  • Roxanne Schaal Reynolds
    Posted at 07:23h, 24 December Reply

    Sarah, that is a beautiful dress.

  • Dawn Redmond
    Posted at 07:40h, 24 December Reply

    Love the fabric, love the style, love the fit. And the color looks fabulous on you! Applause, applause!

  • Cuckoo Chanel
    Posted at 07:41h, 24 December Reply

    Absolutely stunning!!! Merry Christmas

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:24h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you, Cuckoo Chanel and a very Merry Christmas to you! 🙂 🙂

  • Pam
    Posted at 07:43h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful, stunning on you. The colour so suits you. I love it. You look amazing. :0)

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:24h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Pam. It is one of the richest colors I’ve seen 🙂

  • wanda ll
    Posted at 07:45h, 24 December Reply

    What a beautiful dress . It fits so well and looks great on you with your hair color. Love it. I also must say it doesn’t look homemade either. I hate it when people sew and it looks homemade. It just isn’t worth their time if is doesn’t look bought.Keep up the awesome work and show and tell.Love it.
    wanda ll

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:26h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you, Wanda! I’ve made my share of homemade looking clothes but hopefully I’ve moved beyond the homemade look. 😉

  • Almeda
    Posted at 07:48h, 24 December Reply

    One word! “Perfection”! 🙂
    Merry Christmas.

  • Carmen Isaacs
    Posted at 07:51h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful dress and you look amazing in it. Happy holidays!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:28h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Carmen! Happy Holidays to you 🙂

  • Sarah. Jo
    Posted at 07:56h, 24 December Reply

    Lovely! I don’t have the occasion to wear this dress but it is a flattering silhouette!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:29h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you, Sarah Jo! I’m in the “wedding phase” of my life between my daughters’ friends and my friends’ daughters 🙂

  • Becky Bagwell
    Posted at 07:57h, 24 December Reply

    You did it again Mrs G. I love pic by your tree! Merry Christmas!

  • Valerie
    Posted at 08:01h, 24 December Reply

    Simply beautiful!

  • Elianne Senuik
    Posted at 08:15h, 24 December Reply

    You ARE my hero! Thanks for the sleeve cap info, and thanks for the inspiration – I may not be on a complete clothing buying “fast”, but it’s close, your inspiration is spreading.
    Happy Sewing Season.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:33h, 25 December Reply

      Many thanks for your nice comment, Elianne and I’m flattered to be your hero this holiday season 😉

  • Myra
    Posted at 08:21h, 24 December Reply

    What a gorgeous dress! I really can’t tell which is more beautiful, the dress or you in the dress! Just stunning! Even if I didn’t have an occasion to wear this dress, I would put it on just to feel beautiful at home! (It’s just that beautiful!). You’ve out done yourself my dear!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:36h, 25 December Reply

      Oh wow – what a nice thing to say, Myra! I do love the dress and certainly hope to wear it more than once 🙂 Thanks so much for your comment!

  • Cissie Wellons
    Posted at 08:29h, 24 December Reply

    Just gorgeous! The color is perfect on you — and the style is elegant. Might have to try to find this pattern, even though I have no need for another cocktail dress!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:37h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you so much Cissie! I hope you’ve had a lovely Christmas 🙂

  • Ann-Britt Uhrbom
    Posted at 08:29h, 24 December Reply

    Lovely color, lovely fabric and a lovely lady! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Sewingyear!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 21:38h, 25 December Reply

      Thank you, Ann-Britt! Merry Christmas and Happy New Sewingyear to you too 😉

  • Sofie
    Posted at 08:40h, 24 December Reply

    Stunning. Thanks for the sleeve head tip. Merry Christmas to you.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 06:43h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, Sofie! I found this tip to be one of the best ever as I find so many sleeves to have too much ease.

  • Margaret Cole
    Posted at 08:40h, 24 December Reply

    Wow!!! Stunning.

  • Faye Lewis
    Posted at 08:57h, 24 December Reply

    What a beautiful holiday dress!

  • Becky
    Posted at 08:58h, 24 December Reply

    OMG! You have outdone yourself. This is just perfect, the style, the fabric, the choice for you!

  • Claudia
    Posted at 09:00h, 24 December Reply

    Thank you for sharing all your sewing work. Your garments, the way you present them and the beautiful pictures are inspiration and motivation to me.
    I was thinking about not buying but only sewing next year and joining your movement- but due to 4 days of working- time is a matter.
    I have some left days in 2013 to think about it- I would love to have some more time to sew…
    Happy Christmas and a healthy and joyful New Year!!!
    Best regards from Germany
    Claudia

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 06:47h, 26 December Reply

      Hi Claudia and thank you for your nice comment 🙂 Some periods of our lives are easier than others and I think the point is more about doing something positive for yourself. If this isn’t the year to give up shopping then you shouldn’t do it – but of course you can still sew as much as you’d like to!

  • Andrea
    Posted at 09:04h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful, Sarah!

  • Anna
    Posted at 09:13h, 24 December Reply

    Absolutely stunningly gorgeous!!

  • Anne Kendall
    Posted at 09:15h, 24 December Reply

    FABULOUS in every way…color, neckline, fit, and such gorgeous fabric. On 2/4/08 I attended the Carolina Herrera Premier in Bryant Park to see the unveiling of the Fall 2008 collection. Breath taking fabrics and attention to detail.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 06:51h, 26 December Reply

      Oh lucky you! I would love to know how she used this brocade. Many thanks for the comment, Anne 🙂

  • Sandee
    Posted at 09:24h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful! Again you inspire me. Merry Christmas.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 06:51h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Sandee! I hope you had a good one 🙂

  • LinB
    Posted at 09:30h, 24 December Reply

    No “Blue Christmas” for you in that gorgeous frock! (It is my opinion that the world needs to use the word “frock” more often, at least in the sense of “a woman’s or girl’s dress.” It’s so fun to say aloud!) I wish the merriest Merry Christmas to you and yours.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 06:55h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, LinB! Wish I could have worn the dress for Christmas but it will make its debut soon enough …… and I love the word frock too 🙂

  • Vivian
    Posted at 09:40h, 24 December Reply

    Wow! Your dress is simply beautiful. I think you will use this one for a long time. I need a dress for a wedding in January, but it is on the beach in St. Thomas. Beach weddings????? I love your dress though.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 06:57h, 26 December Reply

      Ooh……… St Thomas in January just sounds divine. I would go the Lilly Pulitzer route for a beach wedding, but that’s just me. Have fun and thanks so much for your comment, Vivian!

      • Vivian
        Posted at 09:56h, 26 December Reply

        That is exactly what I was thinking, Lilly Pulitzer, although I did see a great Valentino maxi, that looked very beachy, that I thought of as an inspiration.

  • The Renegade Seamstress
    Posted at 09:42h, 24 December Reply

    This is beautiful, Sarah! You inspire me to try sewing with patterns again. I have so many I’d like to try, just need to find some time. Merry Christmas!!!
    Beth

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:01h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you Beth! Time……. hmmm……. one of life’s luxuries for sure! Next Christmas I’m making some smittens 🙂

  • Wendy
    Posted at 09:54h, 24 December Reply

    You look gorgeous in the dress! Beautiful sewing! I am always so inspired by you. Thank you. BTW, do you sew waistbands or facings in your skirts? Just wondering if one is better than the other. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and your family!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 10:10h, 24 December Reply

      Wendy! I accidentally deleted your email and couldn’t find it even in the trash! I followed the video instructions and was very pleased. Now that I’ve taken a pair of mens’ pants apart I may do things differently!
      Many thanks for your comment 🙂

  • june lovell
    Posted at 10:01h, 24 December Reply

    another beautiful addition to your wardrobe, thanks for the reminder about the Craftsy class, i bought it and haven’t had a chance to attend…

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:07h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, June! I’ve truly found this class to be great – this one tip alone has been so helpful to me and I hope you’ll enjoy it as I have 🙂

  • Sharon Latham
    Posted at 10:22h, 24 December Reply

    Absolutely stunning. Gorgeous fabric.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:07h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks, Sharon! The fabric makes the dress for sure 🙂

  • Linda Richards
    Posted at 10:47h, 24 December Reply

    This dress is beyond perfect! I love it & you look simply gorgeous wearing it. You are a wonderful roll model for us all and during 2014 I shall strive to follow your example. Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:08h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks for your very kind comment, Linda 🙂 It’s not beyond perfect, but I am quite pleased with the result!

  • Art Attack
    Posted at 11:09h, 24 December Reply

    Simply breathtaking! Merry Christmas, my friend!

  • Emmely
    Posted at 11:10h, 24 December Reply

    That neckline is quite spectacular!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:09h, 26 December Reply

      I do love this neckline, Emmely! As I mentioned no gaping or sliding off of the shoulders 😉

  • Denise Thompson
    Posted at 11:10h, 24 December Reply

    This dress is stunning! Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:10h, 26 December Reply

      Thanks so much, Denise! Hope you had a good one 🙂

  • Mary Beth Mesrobian
    Posted at 11:21h, 24 December Reply

    I love your dress and would like to know where you purchased that snappy zipper, Thank You

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:12h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, Mary Beth! The zipper was in the stash and it came either from Jo Ann’s or an independent fabric store in Gastonia NC known as Mary Jo’s Cloth Store.

  • Rachel
    Posted at 11:23h, 24 December Reply

    So many gorgeous things in this post! Your new dress is lovely and very flattering. Have a wonderful Christmas. Rachel 🙂

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:12h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks, Rachel! I hope you had a good one 😉

  • Catty
    Posted at 11:45h, 24 December Reply

    Thanks for all the inspiration! I love your dress, the neckline, or lack of it!, looks so pretty! Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:14h, 26 December Reply

      LOL! I didn’t know how this would look on me but after making the muslin I thought it might work though it is rather low, huh? 🙂 Many thanks for the comment, Catty!

  • patriciaphall
    Posted at 11:49h, 24 December Reply

    Wow! Wonderful! Merry Christmas to you!!

  • Mary Lynn
    Posted at 11:49h, 24 December Reply

    So beautiful and in my very favorite color! Best wishes for a wonderful holiday! You have a very exciting year ahead – savor each moment – it will go so fast!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:17h, 26 December Reply

      Thanks, Mary Lynn! As I mentioned I bought the fabric for the color alone….. and we started savoring each moment on Christmas eve – our last with just the girls 😉

  • Katie
    Posted at 12:42h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful dress and thanks for the tip! Merry Christmas!

  • Jennifer
    Posted at 12:51h, 24 December Reply

    It’s beautiful! Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:18h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks, Jennifer and I hope you had a great Christmas 🙂

  • Leigh
    Posted at 12:59h, 24 December Reply

    What a lovely dress! You look fabulous – and inspiring as always. I am looking forward to a Me-Made 2014. I may not quite make everything, but I am going to try.

    Thanks for the tips from your craftsy class. That is a good one – I haven’t bought that class yet, but may need to.

    A very Merry Crhistmas to you and yours. Happy Sewing in the New Year!!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:19h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Leigh! I found that one tip alone to be incredibly helpful. Happy Sewing to you too 🙂

  • Carolyn
    Posted at 13:13h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful dress.

  • Cheryl Scott
    Posted at 13:37h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful!! I live for the day when a ‘big deal’ dress (holiday, wedding) comes together like that for me! Can’t wait for 2014 to begin!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:21h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, Cheryl! It’s crazy but I’m more comfortable making this type of garment than casual everyday clothes. Aside from the MOB dress I might focus on everyday wear 🙂

  • myrosesindecember
    Posted at 13:49h, 24 December Reply

    The fabric alone is beautiful but what you turned it into – absolute perfection! The color and style are just perfect for you. Just this morning I was thinking of you, that I had not seen a post for a while and hoped you were doing well. Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:22h, 26 December Reply

      Thanks so much for this sweet comment! I’m still around, just trying to survive the December madness 🙂

  • Melissa Brown
    Posted at 14:25h, 24 December Reply

    What can I say that others haven’t already said. You are simply a jewel. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:23h, 26 December Reply

      Ah,,, that’s really sweet! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you too, Melissa 🙂

  • Sandra Wylie
    Posted at 14:36h, 24 December Reply

    That dress looks stunning on you, I love every thing about it

  • margaret
    Posted at 14:37h, 24 December Reply

    Really darling dress, Sarah! Pattern and fabric a perfect marriage! Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:24h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks, Margaret! I hope you had a good one 🙂

  • Vicki
    Posted at 15:00h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful, beautiful dress! Merry Christmas.

  • Roberta
    Posted at 15:00h, 24 December Reply

    Beautiful!!! And thanks for the tip! I love your blog!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:25h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, Roberta! I’ve found blogging to be a great pleasure 🙂

  • Debby Wagner Varela
    Posted at 19:00h, 24 December Reply

    I agree with the others, the color is perfect for you. And I don’t think you could have picked a better pattern to make it out of. Wonderful!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:25h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks Debby! I’m glad I saved this pattern for all of these years 🙂

  • Cindy C.
    Posted at 19:44h, 24 December Reply

    Your creations just keep getting better and better! And this particular shade of blue is definitely your color — it is totally flattering and really makes your face light up. Every time I think you can’t possibly do anything to top your latest creation, you then excel to reach even greater heights. You are truly an inspiration. Merry Christmas to you and your family!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:27h, 26 December Reply

      What a lovely comment, Cindy 🙂 The color is definitely stunning and it was quite exciting to see it all come together!

  • Mollie Bobo
    Posted at 20:16h, 24 December Reply

    Fabulous Christmas dress! Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:27h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Mollie! Hope you had a good one 🙂

  • Jean O'Reilly
    Posted at 21:00h, 24 December Reply

    This is gorgeous! How do you get the right fit? Do you have someone help you with the measurements or use one of the fitting forms (can’t think of the name, like a mannequin)? I have my actual sewing stitch techniques down but fitting stumps me. Thanks and Merry Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:46h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you Jean! I have a dress form but it 28 years old and doesn’t exactly represent my shape anymore 😉 I need a new one. I’ve found making a muslin is the best way to get the fitting just right for me. I was lucky with this pattern because if fit perfectly after removing 1 1/2 inches from the bodice.

  • Connie Cutcliff
    Posted at 22:28h, 24 December Reply

    Love the color. I think I would feel beautiful just wrapping myself in the fabric.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:47h, 26 December Reply

      Well, that’s exactly how this fabric makes me feel 🙂 Many thanks, Connie!

  • Carolina'sCallin'
    Posted at 00:50h, 25 December Reply

    Beautiful! Love it on you – and that fabric looks divine! Wonderful way to close out the holidays 🙂

    Merry Christmas to you and your family! Can’t wait to see what 2014 sewing projects you share 🙂

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:48h, 26 December Reply

      Cheryl…….. When are you coming back to Sparkle City??…… and how is your sewing going?
      Hope you had a very Merry Christmas and thanks so much for writing 🙂

  • Amanda
    Posted at 01:28h, 25 December Reply

    Gorgeous! Happy Christmas!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:49h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, Amanda! I love y o u r paisley dress 🙂

      • Amanda
        Posted at 14:19h, 26 December Reply

        Thanks! I have just cut out another dress and am inspired by the gorgeous zip on the one you have made. Did you buy it with that lovely pull up bit or did you make it? I have never seen one like that .

      • Amanda
        Posted at 15:54h, 26 December Reply

        I managed to find one on minerva crafts! Watch this space!

  • La Mona
    Posted at 04:08h, 25 December Reply

    What a great dress! And what lovely fabric! As I sew very much lingerie, I ask myself if you will be wearing a strapless bra underneath?

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:50h, 26 December Reply

      Thanks so much, La Mona! Most definitely yes on the strapless bra 🙂

  • Jean
    Posted at 06:37h, 25 December Reply

    I love this dress…the colour, the fabric, the gorgeous neckline and its suits you so well. Absolutely stunning creation. Wishing you a very happy Christmas.

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:43h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks, Jean! I was quite pleased to see it all come together. I look forward to seeing your 2014 creations as your sewing is quite stunning to me 🙂

  • didyoumakethat
    Posted at 07:57h, 25 December Reply

    That is such a great tip re the sleeve head. In fact, I’ve now gone and bought that Craftsy class. Happy Christmas and thanks for all the inspiration!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:42h, 26 December Reply

      Thanks so much, Karen! I had no idea it was so easy to reduce the ease on a sleeve. Hope you had a Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing your 2014 creations 🙂

  • Tonia
    Posted at 08:44h, 25 December Reply

    This is a beautiful dress! Do you make a muslin of everything you make?

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:41h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks, Tonia! I make a muslin of new patterns – exceptions occur with knits. The muslins have made a huge difference in my sewing.

  • Keys Maddox
    Posted at 09:05h, 25 December Reply

    Love it!! And neck line is so very flattering on you. Merry Christmas !

    Sent from my iPad

  • Rose
    Posted at 09:34h, 25 December Reply

    Lovely dress!
    Your sewing skills are getting better all the time!
    It’s just amazing to watch you grow in knowledge & skill!
    Keep up the good work you put all of us to shame!
    I can’t wait to see what fabulous garmet you will construct next!
    Love It!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:39h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Rose! I’m going casual for the next few garments 😉

  • Mary Scott
    Posted at 11:53h, 25 December Reply

    Love this dress – stunning!

  • danvillegirl
    Posted at 13:42h, 25 December Reply

    Another great looking dress! You are definitely on a roll. Thanks for sharing the tip about sleeve ease. I really should sign up for that class!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:38h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you so much, Linda! Learning this tip was enlightening to me 🙂

  • Wendy
    Posted at 14:24h, 25 December Reply

    Another gorgeous make! How do you keep doing it? I think the pendant pearl necklace is fit for royalty!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:36h, 26 December Reply

      Thanks, Wendy! This is a necklace I’ve had for a few years and I doubt I would have made the dress had I not owned the necklace. I should have mentioned I made the dress to go with the necklace 🙂

  • Robyn Kirk
    Posted at 17:44h, 25 December Reply

    I love the way the dress sits on your shoulders and naturally the color on you is super. Enjoy your wedding knowing you are as stunning as the bride!!!
    Cheers for a prosperous new year.
    RobynK
    New Zealand

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:34h, 26 December Reply

      Many thanks for your comment, Robyn! The shoulder fit sealed the deal on making this pattern. I never expected the fit to be so good on me as my shoulders are narrow.
      Happy New Year to you too 🙂

  • Lexley- Brisbane AU
    Posted at 18:35h, 25 December Reply

    Merry Christmas Sarah to you and your family. Absolutely exquisite fabric and design, in fact, everything in the photos are exquisite! Your Xmas tree is just amazing with decorations I have never seen before. (I only wish that Mood Fabrics postage to AU was more reasonable…….)
    Best wishes for a fabulous 2014!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:30h, 26 December Reply

      LOL! The tree is in the lobby of my husband’s office…… but next year I’m going for it 🙂 Best wishes for a fabulous 2014 to you, Lexley and many thanks for writing!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:32h, 26 December Reply

      PS….. my tree is the one in the previous post 😉

  • Ally - Design Rewind Fashions
    Posted at 20:16h, 25 December Reply

    Merry Christmas! That dress is incredible as is your tree! I have to say I have taken that class from Craftsy and loved it. I watched it again with my young daughters so they could learn a few more tips too.
    All the best for a joyous and healthy 2014!

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:29h, 26 December Reply

      Thank you, Ally! I wish I could claim the tree as my own, but I might go for the same decorative theme next Christmas!

  • Lizzy
    Posted at 00:12h, 26 December Reply

    Amazing, stunning colour and gorgeous pattern choice. Love it.
    Merry Christmas – may your 2014 be filled with fabulous fabric, flawless sewing and spectacular patterns!

  • Jjc
    Posted at 17:07h, 26 December Reply

    Your sewing skills are very impressive. This dress is lovely and I have seen nothing that you have made that looks “home made” and believe me I’ve seen some.

  • Celeste
    Posted at 18:55h, 26 December Reply

    Dear Miss Rachel, I have lurked on your blog and on the Mood blog for a long time but I have come out of hiding to say that this dress is simply magnificent. Amazingly well done and beautifully presented, and I have to say that you are one of the most beautiful and elegant women I have ever seen. Thank you for being an inspiration to this little mouse up in very cold Minnesota, who can only dream of such finery.

  • Sharon
    Posted at 22:29h, 26 December Reply

    Gorgeous dress, love it.

  • scorp19venus@aol.com
    Posted at 03:24h, 27 December Reply

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

    I love your dress and the color and material are awesome.

    Very pretty.

    Thanks for sharing this,

    Hugs from,

    Ro

  • Sandra
    Posted at 05:34h, 27 December Reply

    What a beautiful dress Sarah, the fabric is devine! Hope you had a lovely Christmas xx

  • Carolyn
    Posted at 08:41h, 27 December Reply

    Look at you with that metal zipper! What a fabulous dress, congrats! I’m sure it’ll be great at the wedding. Happy holidays Sarah! 🙂

  • joen
    Posted at 13:19h, 27 December Reply

    Love the fabric it looks as good as you say it feels. The color looks beautiful on you and the dress turn out wonderful!

  • Chantal Paquette
    Posted at 13:25h, 27 December Reply

    Thanks to a contest a few most ago I add the joy of discovering your blog. I won’t be following the diet but my eyes will still be glued on your site. Looking at previous work you did I see that we have pretty much the same taste for Vogue patterns. I really enjoyed the instructions that you gave on your last masterpiece. I love how you bring to life a piece of fabric. Happy Holidays Sarah !

  • gingermakes
    Posted at 14:07h, 27 December Reply

    This dress is absolutely lovely. It’s perfect for a winter wedding! Seriously beautiful work!

  • Joy Bernhardt
    Posted at 12:27h, 28 December Reply

    Absolutely gorgeous, but you better not bend forward too far! (-;
    Hugs, Joy

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 07:09h, 29 December Reply

      Thanks, Joy! The fit from this pattern is fabulous and the neck has no gaping whatsoever – I can touch my toes without exposing anything 🙂

  • treva p.
    Posted at 16:37h, 28 December Reply

    Spectacular! You are my hero finding time to sew before Christmas. I can barely get my presents wrapped on time (into the wee hours of the night). I think I’m going to have to take that craftsy class soon. You keep referring to it in your posts. I believe you are their best advertisement for how effective it can be! Happy New Year wishes to you.
    Treva

  • seamseclectic
    Posted at 11:11h, 31 December Reply

    I would like to do the no retail challenge. I tried signing up but am not sure if it worked. Can you make sure that I am good to go? Thanks and Happy New Year

    • goodbyevalentino
      Posted at 11:20h, 31 December Reply

      Please send me your online blog or photo album address and a photo.
      Glad to have your join in!

  • NinaLBoston
    Posted at 14:45h, 31 December Reply

    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
    This dress is incredible! Please tell — do you get swatches before you buy? My greatest challenge in choosing fabric is judging if a print is too big for my frame, but I also find that it’s harder to judge a fabric’s “hand” with just a small square of it.
    Sarah, thank you for all the inspiration during 2013. You’ve turned out an impressive volume of beautiful projects. You give me the incentive to continue improving my fitting and sewing skills.
    Happy New Year from frigid Boston (0 degrees F with wind chill tonight)!

  • Cindy C.
    Posted at 12:08h, 28 January Reply

    And this is THE perfect, and perfectly flattering, length for this current transitional period toward *ugh* longer skirts and dresses. It’s very attractive on you!

  • Green wool dress | An original by Ellie
    Posted at 04:12h, 26 March Reply

    […] added some more hand sewing (the lining was already largely handsewed in). Having been inspired by goodbye Valentino I fancied putting in a metallic zip to this dress, but I couldn’t find a long metallic zip in the […]

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