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Featured Seamstress: Samantha

Name: Samantha

Skill Level: Intermediate

Pattern: Peony

Her Blog: Butter in the Fridge

Her post about the pattern: Two Peonies

What kind of fabric did you use? Cotton sateen or poplin (not sure which) that I bought from Paron Fabrics in NYC.

How did you decide to reflect your personal style in the pattern? I bought this fabric months ago on a trip to NYC and was almost afraid to use it because I love it so much, and I don’t usually wear such light tones. One night as I was falling asleep I had the perfect image in my head of this fabric as a Peony: classic, simple lines to let the fabric shine. I left the cummerbund off and made the skirt gathers into pleats, but otherwise I let the fabric speak for itself. I am not one for much embellishment in my clothing. Prefer styles and lines that are classic (but not stodgy) that focus more on the drape and hand of the fabric than design elements. That’s why I love Colette Patterns, they are so well designed they can be sewn up many different ways, but always maintain a gorgeous sense of style. The design details are so well thought through.

What thoughts do you have about the project? I love this dress. I am still working through some fit issues with the back bodice, but I’m confident they will be resolved in the next version. This project reflects how I would like to dress: put together, stylish without being obvious and current. I will be using this Peony as the inspiration for my Fall sewing. To work on fitting issues and come away with a beautiful collection of stylish wearable clothes is my goal. I know this sounds weird but I have embraced the fitting issues I’ve had with this pattern because solving them has made me a better sewist. I’m going to dive into the Clover pants…!

Thanks, Samantha!

Caitlin Clark

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

Comments

Amanda

September 24, 2012 #

This is such a beautiful dress! I think the fabric and pattern are perfectly matched :) I totally agree; while fitting issues at the time can be troublesome, working through them makes each project better than the last :) I think your fit on this one looks amazing!

Jessica

September 24, 2012 #

Beautiful dress, but your picture is sideways. :)

Kenn

September 24, 2012 #

Ack! I don’t know how that slipped through unnoticed. Fixed now :)

Annemarie

September 24, 2012 #

Beautiful!

Bridget D

September 24, 2012 #

Looks gorgeous! You did a great job!

Lindy

October 21, 2012 #

I like the design of the dress that you have made and the fabric that you choose I completely agree on the fitting issues. I struggle with that too with myself and kids when it comes to patterns. I know that I you will work threw them just like we all do just keep at it the only lady I have seen give good instructions is sure fit designs. But have never tried them myself. Have you thought about trying it?