This was the second time for my husband and I, in attending the Dressmaker’s Ball in Leicester, England. This highlight of my fashion calendar did not disappoint! This much anticipated event has been going on for 5 years, and it is hosted by Freya and Sarah of CraftySew&So . They created the gala evening to give those of us who love to sew, a reason to create an elegant evening ensemble to a special event, and meet other like-minded sewists. This year the venue changed to The Grand Hotel Leicester! What a fabulous building it is, indeed.
Not unlike last year, I was inspired by Christian Dior for my dress design. Below is the mood board I created to lead the direction for my design. I wanted a blush/ rose gold colored gown with iridescence and many sequins.
The original Dior Venus dress was very inspiring to me with the sequins, color, and the petals…
Here is the fashion illustration I drew to depict my plan for the gown…
The sewing pattern I chose for my gown is Vogue 1471 by Bellville Sassoon. I liked the bust line and the train on this “1980’s does Victorian era” design.
The gala was a splendid affair with 150 guests, most of which were women who sewed their own evening gowns. There was a live band playing from the balcony above, and a fantastic dinner with wine and champagne. My favorite part of the event was the runway show where all of us show off our creations in an array of categories. I can’t get over the creativity and wide variety of outfits!
My friend Regina @thepiratestailor won for best Haute Couture gown, and I just love her Singer sewing machine inspired dress! It’s perfect for the theme!
Dior InspiredDior Venus DressThe Dressmakers BallVintage sewingVogue 1471
What do you think?