This weeks GUEST(!) Crafty Bloggers Club post is from Jenny, you can find more of her makes on Instagram @thewardrobearchitect

Jenny normally blogs over on the Simple Sew Bloggers network, but in the run up to the ball we're featuring some other makers dress preparations.  Keep an eye on the blog for some serious inspiration!

I was very happy to be able to choose some fabric from Crafty Sew and So to make a party dress in honour of the upcoming Dressmaker’s Ball. I chose this beautiful red luxury crepe, it’s so heavy and the colour is really rich. 

 It took me a while to decide on a pattern but I settled on the Grace dress as I have seen some beautiful versions around. I originally decided to make the version with the cap sleeves, but after I’d made them and tried the bodice on I decided to take them back off again! They hit just at the widest part of my arm, which was really unflattering. 

The crepe was a bit shifty to cut out and sew with, though it does have a slight bit of stretch, which made it easier to manipulate. It’s really bouncy, so doesn’t seem to crease at all, which is so perfect for a party dress as it will look good all night! 

This dress is pretty straightforward, it has a fully lined bodice and pleated skirt with pockets. I added 4cm length to the bodice, which is a pretty standard adjustment for me. I didn’t alter the length of the skirt though, it’s come up perfectly.

I think this dress would look great with a little sparkly bolero/cardi. I’m wearing it with a drapey jersey cardi, which isn’t quite right. The great thing about red is it’s really easy to pair with black accessories, so ends up being really versatile.

I particularly like the skirt on this dress pattern, I love that it has pockets and the pleats give it volume and twirly-ness! I’d like to make another, more everyday version of the skirt in another of the luxury crepe fabrics, such as this navy blue version.

Jenny x