Great Memories were had at the Dressmaker’s Ball 2026

October 7, 2026

Short Video Recap:

We just returned back home from our Third Dressmaker’s Ball, which was held in the historic and aptly named, Grand Hotel Leicester (England). As usual, it was a phenomenal event filled to the brim with creativity, excitement, high energy, and fashion ranging from whimsical, vintage, glamorous, and everything in between. ( A big thanks to Sarah and Freya for organizing and hostessing the event every year! https://www.craftyeventsuk.co.uk/the-dressmakers-ball ) For sewing enthusiasts, this is such a special event as it allows you to socialize with other (mostly women) who are passionate about sewing and creating. Every time I go to one of these events I walk away with new knowledge, inspiration, and friendships. I love meeting ladies of all ages and sizes, who have taken to sewing. Each of us who attend have been working hard on our ensemble for that event, and because we are all so different, it’s a thrill to see what outfits we come up with. The fashion show is something exceptional! I come out representing late 90’s Renaissance Revival, Regina is sporting her steampunk denim pirate ensemble, Joanna is in high end couture ball gown, and Julie is sporting the most well tailored pin-up vintage two-piece set. That’s only the beginning! I am absolutely TICKLED just taking it all in, what a night! My video above hardly scratches the surface because I was busy taking it in, rather than taking pictures.

Below are a few photos from the event. You can see more photos of my dress in this post. This is the inspiration. And this is a look at the coat I made for my husband to wear. If my face looks extra shiny in these pictures it’s because I wore Y2K style glitter gel all over! It looked good in person but did not photograph well.

In addition to the ball itself, we had a fabric shopping party at Roy’s Material World, as well as an after-ball brunch at &Kith on Sunday. This year we stayed in the Grand Hotel, the same place the ball was held, and it was a real treat! I was lucky to book the rate at an unusually low price (I think construction had been going on when I booked?), the hotel smelled so good and it was darling! Look at the floral stained glass windows!

Leicester is a great city to visit. There are many great food choices, and we re-visited The Giggling Squid again. In the shop “Button Boutique” I picked up some knitting needles I needed, because I’m going to try to learn to knit here soon. There is a strong textile history in Leicester and it can be seen as a theme throughout the city if you have discerning eyes for it!

Here I am wearing a version of Vogue 2000 DVF wrap dress I made, to the post-ball brunch. My husband and I really enjoy a particular Cafe Nero location in Leicester, which had huge sunny windows, and we went there each day (and have done the same, every time we visit). Do you see the argyle sweater he is wearing? He bought that 2 years ago at Sue Rider vintage shop (below), and of course we love to visit there every year! This year I found some lovely embroidered fabric there, and a crochet hanger that was not only adorable, but much needed because my garment bag hanger broke on the trip!