Free range creating

There's a little bit of magic in the creation of anything.

In that moment when the idea you had becomes tangible, touchable and real.

Recently I was asked about creating a ball dress, with just an idea, and no pattern.

So I thought I'd share with you the process of creating the dress, in my own free-range way.

First I took the blue brocade fabric and folded the pleats over the mannequin to achieve the desired look, shaping as I went, with lots and lots of pins. Then having sewn that all in place cut away the excess fabric.

Next I made a complete simple gown out of dark blue chiffon, actually times two as one was lining and one was outer.

Then it was time to attach the brocade bodice pieces to the gown and sew together as one.

As shown in the images below...

Once the main construction of the gown was complete it was time for finishing touches.

I added some gorgeous black lace to the skirt hem, and some draping to the back.

Now the gown is all ready for the ball.