The Making of a Beauty Queen – Part III

So, after having the lining done and all the rhinestones attached, it was time to put the two halves together. She also wanted the bustline to have tulle poking out of it, to give interest to the eye at the bustline. I put the tulle between the outer and inner layers and they were sewn [...]

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The Making of a Beauty Queen – Part II

Putting rhinestones on a dress. Hmmm, well there are flatbacks, which definitely helps. Flatback crystals, like the name implies have a flat back to sit flush on the fabric, but have a faceted topside – making the crystals look like they’ve been imbedded into the fabric. There are glue-on and sew-on flatbacks. Glue-ons are used [...]

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The Making of a Beauty Queen – Part I

I’ve been busy. I know, it’s no excuse not to post. Maybe you’ll cut me some slack if I show you what I’ve been up to A lovely, young beauty pageant contestant approached me about making her upcoming pageant dress. I thought how exciting it would be to have one of my dresses on stage [...]

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Gigi: 1950s Inspired Strapless Wrap Gown

Gigi was inspired by a film of the same name made in 1958. She has a beautiful pleated, wrap detail that can be tied in the front or the back. Another Made To Order gown, I have created her in floor length, tea length, with straps, and with embroidery detail. She is a throwback to [...]

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Ruched Strapless Dress – The Making of, Part II

More progress on the bodice: Next, sewing and attaching the skirt. Prom’s in 13 days!

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The Making of a Strapless Ruched Chiffon Dress

Erica wanted a short ivory ruched chiffon dress for her prom. She emailed me this photo and asked if I could make something similar. So, with that in mind, I went on a little shopping adventure. There had been a recent article in Vogue Patterns magazine showcasing fabric shops in the metro DC area that [...]

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