PROJECT SEWN : : MIDNIGHT IN PARIS DRESS
Bonsoir mes cheries! I’m not sure where the time went, but it’s May and another Project Sewn Season is upon us. This time round, I’ve done me a little Project Sewn homework…a little prep work shall we say…for my upcoming makes. I think it was back in early March when I realized that my wardrobe could use some mixable pieces…some tops, and bottoms. Since that announcement, I’ve sewn a grand total of one top, and one skirt. So, I definitely have pants and a few more tops on the wish list. And, just so you know, the sum of my prep work was basically just that; wish-ful thinking…okay, that and some pattern and fabric selection.
But, but, but…another dress, you say. I know, I know! I can’t seem to help myself. It’s always an effort to make a plan, but to stick with it, well that’s another beast entirely. What can I say…I get distracted by sparkly things and. well. just about anything. If we were placing blame, {we’re not} we might waggle a finger {we won’t} at this week’s theme: The Leading Ladies Challenge. This week’s challenge is to create a look inspired by a leading lady from the movies. First thoughts…Vivian {Julia Roberts} in Pretty Woman wearing her polka dot dress to the polo game. Second thoughts…any leading lady wearing a blue and white striped dress because I want a blue and white striped dress. Third thoughts…maybe a leading lady wearing pants and a top, being that they’re on my list. What’s that? Oh yes! I most definitely agree with you…that is a lot of thoughts…gives you a tiny inkling of how much activity goes on in my noggin’ at any given moment… #1 – just no; #2 – Jean Seberg wears a lovely striped dress in Breathless; a dress based on hers is a strong contender; #3 – Hmmm, maybe it was just me, but I couldn’t find many leading ladies in film wearing pants…’cept maybe Audrey Hepburn, {not this time} or Diane Keaton {been there, done that}. And after all that organized thought? Seemingly out of the blue, I chose to channel a French leading lady. Marion Cotillard to be precise, and her dress in Midnight in Paris to be particularly precise. I love her 1920’s dress, really love it, and I totally saw myself sewing an inspired version of it in the form of a long, blousey tunic. A top, something to be worn with pants, or capris, or leggings. But the more I thought about that dress, the more I wanted THAT dress. Which brings us to…
{Adriana} wore it in Midnight In Paris; classic 1920’s with a small beaded bag and heels. All well and good, but I will also most certainly be wearing this dress with flat, strappy sandals and a straw hat when the sun sits high in the sky.I used Burda pattern 7255, last seen here as the basis for this design. Clever, yes?! I lengthened the top just a little and added the skirt, pleating the front and very slightly gathering the back. I redesigned the neckline to a v-neck, and drafted the collar on my own. The trim is 100% cotton fabric, cut in strips and, after pressing under 1/4″ seam allowances, machine stitched in place. The collar was done a little differently; instead of cutting strips, I cut the cotton in the shape of the outside edges of the collar. The dress itself, is of a crisp, wrinkly-dinkly 100% cotton fabric! Not quite as sheer as Marion’s version, but sheer enough. I made a very simple, lightweight cotton knit tank underdress {Is that a word?, she wondered.} to wear as a lining. It’s almost weightless and supremely comfortable. If I were to wear the dress at the beach, I’d skip the underdress and wear a tank tee and yoga shorts or a bathing suit underneath.And last, but not least, you may have noticed the addition of Me-Made-May ’14 in my sidebar. Zoe, of So, Zo…What Do You Know masterminded the annual challenge years ago, but this is my first time participating in Me-Made-May 2014. The challenge is about consciously connecting with one’s handmade wardrobe; either wearing handmade garments more frequently, or assessing what works or doesn’t work, or perhaps learning what items are missing. That kind of thing. I have quietly pledged to wear an article of me-made clothing a minimum of three days a week in May. As I alluded to above; I have the tendency to do the opposite of what I either, pledge, vow, or otherwise announce. It took me some consideration before taking the leap. I rationalize it thus: had I pledged to wear me-made clothing every day in May, the opposite would be no days in May…but with pledging three days, I hope to confuse myself well enough to just do the darn challenge! Too much mathematics involved to do the opposite. I don’t have a lot of me-made clothing; everything I’ve sewn, you’ve seen, so I won’t be boring you with thrice weekly outfit photos. That being said, I do hope to share some ah-ha moments about this project at the end of the May, and I will be posting my outfits to the Me-Made-May 2014 Flickr Group.
Linking Up With:
Project Sewn for Leading Lady Challenge
Patti of Not Dead Yet Style for Visible Monday
74 Comments
I can tell this dress makes you happy, Sue – it's written all over your gorgeous face! Such a pretty frock, beautifully executed as always, and with your trademark eye for detail. I love that you went pink and floral for the trim (I can imagine it might have been tempting to go stripes or navy for a nautical look). It's beautiful, and yes, I think you will wear and enjoy it all summer long.
I wouldn't get far in Me Made May with my two dresses and a skirt, but I'm working on it – maybe next year! I so look forward to seeing what you come up with – yes, tops and bottoms would be interesting. I am thinking of taking the plunge and trying to make a pair of trousers – I'm slightly daunted, but not as scared as I am of sleeves! xxx
Such an adorable dress! I love seeing dresses that others sew even though I hardly wear dresses, haha vicariously enjoying dresses.
That dress is a joy, I can almost feel how happy it makes you to wear it. Love the pink trim.
I joined in about four years ago, I really should do it again, it was a great incentive to get stuff finished. xxx
I completely understand the lure of a pretty dress! And this one is a beauty! I made a vow to make pants after last year's Me Made May….did I follow through? Nope..not one pair of pants was made. I think that I made the pledge and immediately through it out of my head as soon as I saw my next piece of pretty fabric. Oh well. Life is short so let's make all the pretty dresses we want! (I will tell you though…I made a pair of “pants” yesterday for Project Sewn…now if I can just get them blogged)
Oh my goodness! Ta robe est trop jolie!!! I feel like I want to make something like that, I won't, but you make me want to. It looks so much like your inspiration:) (aussi, c'est “je ne sais quoi”, pas “je ne sais quois”)
I love this dress – both the original and your perfectly happy version – I can imagine never taking it off through a long summer! I'm enjoying your MMMay14 outfits too 😉
Your dress is absolutely identical to the original, Sue! As always you are showing in these photos all your talent! I love this loose dress, which will be very confortable in summer…and your shoes are really perfect with it!
What a fantastic dress and perfect inspiration!
Wow, this dress, and you, are gorgeous and so delightful. I love the fashion in that movie, my favorite era for dresses. Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday, xox.
“I can confuse myself.” /chortle Oh, Sue – you slay me! 😀 But I love that the direction of your thought processes mimic mine almost to a T. It's a bit harrowing talking to one's self a mile a minute, isn't it? But I can completely relate to the whole challenge dichotomy – it spurs you on but also shackles you at the same time. More power to you; I shall be rooting for you in the wings with my non-sewing self.
And once again, I am in awe of your mad sewing skills. That dress is perfection, and you are too! 😀
Zut alors! Didn't we all just swoon when we saw that dress in the film? And you have reproduced it perfectly! And you look every bit as dreamy as Marion!!!!
omg! I wanted to make this dress as well from the moment i saw it in the film – and now i have even more inspiration! i love it. Thank you for sharing!
Wonderful dress, love the pattern and design. The print trim on pocket, collar and sleeves, is cute. A proposal delicious, soft, delicate and pretty. The shoes and bag are two cuties. You look wonderful.
Oh wow, Sue! Bravo! I'm also very bad about wanting to do something, committing to it, then changing my mind. Maybe by this time next year I can wear 3 me-made things a week?! Lovely job changing up the collar and getting your dress just right. Your skills amaze me!!
I am tempted to sew this dress again with a definite nautical vibe! You know me too well! When you do tackle sleeves, make sure to work with cotton or other 100% natural fiber. Makes it easier to fit them in. With trousers, it can be a chore getting the right fit, but once that's perfected, the same pattern can be used over and over!
My love for dresses is pretty recent…and there seems to be no going back now!
The trim on the original dress is red beading…gorgeous, but a lot of work to say the least.
hahaha….Epic pants, a year in the making! Can't wait to see your inspired version!
Oh, thank you so much Josie, or should I say Merci beaucoup! I need a French version of spellcheck, LOL.
Double thanks! Loving seeing your outfits too, and your adorable four legged love!
Thank you Dan! Can you believe I had a moment when I thought my pocket flaps were too big! Just a moment, thank goodness, then I realized I loved my version exactly as it was, LOL.
Thanks Melody! I posted late last night, and haven't checked out your fabulous entry yet!
Thanks Patti! I could actually see you in this dress!
What did I say…kindred spirits…yes?!
I KNOW! Swoon is the perfect word! Thanks for the sweet words Connie!
Well, thank YOU Cathy! And this dress has no buttonholes, and no zipper, invisible or otherwise.
Thank you Josep! I think the print trim really makes the dress, the DRESS! When I began sewing, it looked like a lab coat!
Thanks Amy! The collar and neckline was what I most feared, and I'm happy to say it came together without a hitch. And THAT doesn't happen all the time!
Great dress Sue! It's such a good reproduction of the original and you look really happy wearing it. I know what you meaning about needing to sew separates but sewing pretty dresses instead, I'm definitely guilty of that!
This dress is amazing and a perfect match to the dress in the movie! Love the vintage look to it, the collar detail is gorgeous! Love the cute sparkly shoes you completed the look with! Good luck with your challenge!
Rebecca
http://www.winnipegstyle.ca
Love this, and your photos… wow your styling is gorgeous. I bet it will be so comfy in the summer in your sandals and sun hat too.
Looking every inch the flapper in this little number. The floral trim is just so pretty, perfectly summer, dressed up or down.
Oh my! I´m at your feet. Couldn´t this be more perfect? The resemblance with the original dress is uncanny and the details are just perfect. Hats off to you!!
Thanks Ruth! How 'bout we don't feel guilty together! 🙂
Thanks Rebecca! I'm glad you like the collar…I think it really makes the dress!
Hi!! I was just watching Midnight and Paris and made a comment to my mom about loving that dress. We both agreed that it could be made and so here I am!! I have just started sewing and made my first pair of pants, but I would love to inquire about this dress and if there would be some sort of simple pattern or something.
Hi Isabel. That’s great that you’ve started sewing. Pants can be challenging…if you’ve made them, you’ll have no trouble knocking out a dress. I did a lot of pattern tweaking to make this dress from the pattern I already had in my stash. I suggest that you google 1920s flapper dress sewing patterns and see what comes up!
Thanks Louise!
Thanks Jill!
Thanks so much for taking the time to comment Merche! I'm sure you have a very busy week with back to school!
The dress and you are gorgeous! Perfect for summer and for an evening in Paris. I love the shine of the shoes and the evening bag.
I did comment and then my computer acted all weird, so you may get some iteration of this twice.
The first one was basically filled with praise for your patience and your talent! Your recreation is perfect! And I want to know when you'll start doing custom orders for other people – I'll be first in line!
I am so amazed !!! Not only is this gorgeous dress the spitting image of the Midnight in Paris dress. You have made up the pattern yourself. You are so accomplished, so skilled. I can imagine you are proud of yourself. It is a lovely dress and it suits you so well. Love the little bag and the shiny shoes with it. You always do a great job at shoes, bags and accessories too.
Well done Sue.
Greetje
Dear Sue,
the dress is worth to overrule your plans. It is absolutely marvellous. A really flapper dress! I immediately picture you dancing the twist.
Sabine xxx
I imagine you having a wonderful time in Santa Barbara in this dress. I'm not quite sure why, but for some reason, it looks very Santa Barbara. And, I love the shoes 🙂
Oh, I love the French dress you've made, Sue! How that came out of your Burda blouse pattern, I have no idea. The back is just as cute as the front and you look fabulous in it. I definitely covet it. I somehow haven't seen the movie, which I can certainly remedy. Have never “done” the me made may, even though most everything I have is what I've made. Maybe it's time I take a look…
What an amazing dress Sue! I loved that movie and you are definitely channeling the vibe with this piece 🙂
I'd love to see more variations of this on you too!!
Thank you Judith!
Thanks Val! I've had that happen to me, and it's so frustrating. Thanks for taking the time to comment again!
Thank you so much Greetje!
Aw, thank you Sabine! xo
Santa Barbara works for me Glenda! A cocktail at a swanky hotel, and a gentle ocean breeze. All good!
Thanks Pao! It's early in, and I'm already having a few ah-ha moments about my sewing likes and dislikes. I'm finding it quite interesting. I say join anytime. Perhaps next year, there will be a few of our crowd there!
Thanks Jenny! I'm pretty sure I'll do at least one variation of this dress!
I watched this movie several times in January, and I WANTED this dress so badly! To see yours on the Leading Ladies Linkup was such a thrill! I thought I was the only one who loved that dress 😀 Great work, now I have a clue as to how to make my own! 😀 hehe.
That would be so cool to see your version! I hope you sew one up!
Perfection. Never, NEVER too many dresses. Especially if they are your own creations. Yes. Tres chic, cherie, and so pretty. So accurate! Of course, you in the dress are the star of the show.
Do you regret buying those gold shoes heels for an instant? So great, in every way. Referential without being costumey. I love living in an era where we can wear sparkly heels or beach sandals with the same dress and have it work so well both ways.
I WANT THAT DRESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so jealous. You are so cool Sue. I watched that movie 3 times and every time I said to myself “I want that dress”. Are you gonna make this dress for us? Seriously!
OMG! look at those shoes you are wearing? They are amazing and perfecto for the dress and of course for a nigh in Paris. Wow, I am speechless with your talent.
xo
Carelia
Mysmallwardrobe.com
I love coming to visit your blog, dear Sue! I always find lot of inspiration here and you never disappoint. I love this dress but the 20s was not my favorite, but I can appreciate its beauty and elegance. You look great and fun with this beautiful dress. You know I absolutely love films inspired costumes. You are my hero!
Wow, what a spot on knock off! It looks great and you look like you are having so much fun!
Quelle belle robe! La robe est toi sont excellentes! Elle ta va très très bien. Toutes les détails sonts supers.
Okay…I'm tired of writing in French now : ) I truly do adore the dress and you did an amazing job of recreating the original inspiration.
J'espère que tu vas la porter quand nous rencontrons.
à bientôt!
bisous
Suzanne
Very cute! It looks as though it is very comfortable too.
Hi Sue! long time no comment, so sorry! but i checked and look at your blog often
Ah ! quelle jolie robe en effet! I would wear it in a second, 20s style is my fav too, i wish i could sew, my closet would be full of cute 20s dresses like yours –
I 'm doing better Sue, finally! but still at home, i have to 100% ok in order to return to work
Lots of hugs
Arianexo
Whoa, whoa! My high school French is failing me miserably here. And, I also studied at Alliance Francais, but, alas, I'm just not that good with other languages it seems. Wear it when we meet? Would love too…although dresses are the most *compromising* garment to wear when trying on clothing at thrift stores, LOL. Must always remember to bring both tops and bottoms into the fitting room. *Getting excited*
It is VERY comfortable! Thanks Flo!
Still home?! Oh, big hugs to you Ariane! I hope you are 100% and better soon! xo
I love how you choose styles from movies and re-create and rock them so well that you put the original versions to shame. You look beautiful and the dress looks so comfy!!!
Are you kidding, it's like an exact replica. I love it! And of course you look adorable in it!
WOW!!!!! You nailed it! Beautiful work, Sue!!!
Your smile is lovely!
Hi Sue! You don't sew for other people do you? I an playing a 1920s gig with the great Ian Whitcomb and need a 1920s dress that's cool enough to wear on stage. Your blog post came up! Thanks, Gaili
Hi Gaili, sorry but I rarely sew on a commercial basis. Your best bet is finding a dressmaker locally to you. Best of luck with your search, and how very cool that you will be performing with Ian Whitcomb!!
Sue, Sue, Sue — Oh my precious word. That dress. It *is* the dress from Midnight in Paris but it *is* you! The details on the pockets and the trim–so, so good. I love, love, love that fabric and how you’ve used it here. I don’t know how to say this enough–that dress is you. You could most definitely pop into the set of Midnight in Paris or the current Downton Abbey movie and no one would bat an eye. In so many ways the fabric and everything is “simple,” but more than anything, it is charming elegance embodied. This is a treasure.
I’m going on and on about this, but I’m not finding the right words. I just love it. And it’s perfect for Frocktails in Vancouver.
::happy sigh::
Hugs,
Sherry
Sherry!
I see you found my ancient post. I have to say thank you because I just took the time to read through it…and to read the comments. Ah….happy memories and so many lovely comments, yours included.
I also now want to watch the film again…and, of course, Downton Abbey is on my watch list too!
I remember hunting for the fabric. I really didn’t want to go for a synthetic fiber…but the floaty-ness and sheerness had me looking at polyester fabrics….I never found one where I could tolerate the hand feel.
Adriana’s (Marion) dress may be silk, but I was hesitant about spending too much money on what could have ended up ‘costume-y’.
So cotton it ended up being. And seriously….this may be my all time favourite dress! It’s so fun to wear, and so comfortable, and it dresses up or works equally well casually…which to be honest…is how it’s been worn most.
Which brings me to Vancouver Frocktails. I think my not finding fabric for the ‘other’ project was serendipitous. This dress was whispering at me all along…Wear ME! I can just see myself swanning about with a cocktail in one hand, channeling Adriana…or more likely Rose from Downton Abbey…chatting with all the lovely sewing people about our makes!!!