Start your sewing adventure with us.    Join Seamwork

Articles on this site were all published prior to 2017 and this site is no longer updated. Please visit our current Articles, Patterns, and Classes for the most up-to-date content and products.

Featured Seamstress: Julia

Name: Julia

Skill Level: Intermediate

Pattern Used: Parfait

Website: Julia Bobbin

Her post about the pattern: Earn One’s Stripes: Colette Parfait

What kind of fabric did you use? A nice heavy double sided cotton that I purchased from a local store in Melbourne.

How did you decide to reflect your personal style in the pattern? I have always been drawn to vintage clothes because of their smack-you-in-the-face femininity and sweetness which seem to emphasize the female form, while also flattering it. I’ve always been partial to beautiful prints and colours but I didn’t want to overshadow the beautiful design details of the pattern by overwhelming it in a loud print. Instead I chose to use a pretty pin-stripe, taking special care to cut the fabric pieces with the lines going horizontal, vertical and on the bias to work with the features of the parfait but giving it a little extra ‘somethin-somethin.’ There is something immensely satisfying about a dress with different lines. I added bright red buttons to give it that little extra vintage appeal. Turns out blue and white stripes are best buddies with red buttons.

What thoughts do you have about the project? I love the sweet-heart neckline, the high empire waist and the flattering flared skirt. The combination encourages a feminine shape by pulling in at the high waist, skimming past fitted hips and then kicking out to trick people into thinking I am not pear shaped. Genius! I made a blooper on the shoulder straps by accidently putting the straps under the tabs instead of over (Julia!), but the tabs are so lovely I don’t think it subtracts from the overall look. I’m very happy with the finished dress which I think balances sexy, cute and comfortable and looks darn good with a mustard sweater. This is my first Parfait, but will certainly not be my last.

Thanks, Julia!

Caitlin Clark

Caitlin is the Colette Patterns design assistant. You can follow Caitlin at her blog, the story girl.

Comments

Marie

February 6, 2012 #

Oh wow, this is one of the loveliest versions I’ve seen so far!

Sue

February 6, 2012 #

Amazing! Julia’s parfait (that fabric!) really accentuates the great design of the pattern. Classic, eye-catching, and fun. Great work!

Rochelle New

February 6, 2012 #

SO CUTE! I love the stripe with red accents. So sharp. This dress is definitely on my list for spring!

Amanda

February 6, 2012 #

Julia is an incredibly talented seamstress… her blog is always full of amazing and enviable creations, and her attention to detail is impeccable – well deserved Featured Seamstress :)

Ginger

February 6, 2012 #

Absolutely lovely! I agree with Amanda– Julia is so talented and all her makes are gorgeous! Congrats on being featured!

Jennifer Vance

February 6, 2012 #

One of my favorites so far!Makes me consider sewing this dress myself.

Jessica@MakingHomeSweeter

February 6, 2012 #

SO cute!

Shannon

February 6, 2012 #

So. Cute.

Anna | Mormor hade stil

February 6, 2012 #

Lovely dress, Julia!

Roisin

February 6, 2012 #

Oh Julia, this is my favourite Parfait so far, it’s got such va-va-voom!

ellen

February 6, 2012 #

I loved this so much when i first saw it i have “borrowed” your wonderful fabric choice to play with the stripes for this dress – Hope you dont mind! Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery! I have bought thicker stripe bandings though to make it a bit different. I think it will make it a bit more nautical. This original though is outstanding!

JuliaBobbin

February 6, 2012 #

Thank you wonderful community for your encouraging and super kind comments! And a massive thank you to Colette Patterns for featuring me! I am going to be useless at work today! x

Selena

February 6, 2012 #

That is definitely the best parfait I’ve ever seen. Congratulations!

Amanda

February 6, 2012 #

This is such a wonderful version of Parfait! Just wonderful, Julia! You have inspired me… I do believe I may be tempted to play with stripes now instead of florals… Maybe…

Renae

February 6, 2012 #

This has got to be my favourite Parfait. I love the way you played around with the stripes, and those red buttons are just perfect.

jill

February 6, 2012 #

I’m echoing others opinions here-by far, my favorite Parfait!

Alice

February 6, 2012 #

Really looks lovely. Very flattering. Great choice of fabric and use of the stripes. Inspiring!

Sewing Princess

February 7, 2012 #

Love your fabric choice and buttons. What a cute pose too! Well done and inspiring

Steph

August 13, 2012 #

I love it, and it look smashing on you! You’re really making me want to try this one! Thanks!