November 3, 2009...11:22 pm

Dress Design for Shabby Apple Dresses

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SHABBY APPLE DRESSES

It’s been awhile since I posted, but I wanted to dip in and give you a little update on my latest project.

A couple of months ago, I ran across an adorable clothing website called Shabby Apple. They specialize in ready to wear dresses for ladies of all sizes, shapes, and ages. Being a mom with little girls, I especially appreciate shabby apples design aesthetics. They focus on beautiful designs in comfortable fabrics that are modestly appropriate AND stylish. (An unusual duo – trust me I’ve looked around)

So, here’s the fun part. They’ve invited their readers to design a dress for their Spring line.  Of course, I had to enter. The dress has to be at least knee length, with sleeves, and no cleavage allowed (Woo! Hoo! Finally!)

For my design, I looked to the 1920’s and 30’s for inspiration. The flapper dresses  were a little too boxy for my taste, but the fitted waists and bell-shaped skirts of the early 30’s gave me a few ideas.

Shabby Apple Contest Sketch Nov 09 b and wThe dress bodice of my design has cap sleeves, and is  fitted with a center placket and 6  buttons. The midriff is lined and trimmed with machine stitching. A faux belt in contrasting color cinches the waist. The skirt front has a pleated inset. The back has a center zip closure.

Options: In my design I included a pleated inset to add more coverage to the bustline. For more versatility (I love options!), I’d suggest a detachable inset. The dress would then work in a solid color as a layering piece over blouses, and depending on the fabric, this versatility would make it an excellent transitional piece in the Fall.  

Fabric suggestions: Cotton blend, Linen

Shabby Apple Contest Sketch Nov 09 color

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