The fabric on the Etta is lovely. I think you could take off the skirt and fit the bodice closer to your size, bringing it in at the sides and also shortening about an inch at the waist. If you fit the bodice closer then I think you would want to take a little volume out of the skirt. I like the idea of tying it at the back. I think it has great potential to become a favorite. Pulling your hair back or wearing a brown scarf might solve the hair issue.
Hi. The Etta would be fantastic over a roll collar Jersey in winter. I see it as a dress that goes over your woolies. A big scarf tucked in and some gloves... Perfect.
Wow! The Etta dress is so lovely. If you haven’t tossed it, I’m thinking the loose and airy feel might be resolved with a nice pair of leggings or thick pair of hosiery.
Of course, I want to see what you are making out of Christmas fabric. I wish I could get motivated to make a coat. Both coats and the dog coat you made are very nice.
Love the Etta wrap dress! Actually think I need to buy the pattern after seeing yours! Funny how we can second guess our makes at first…but you’ve definitely inspired!
Lovely makes! Now, I am not (!) great at hacking patterns, but if it was my wrap dress, I think I would shorten the top a little. Bringing the waist up a little, as well as maybe taking it in slightly, would make a little more shape and still maintain the intention behind the dress.. or what? I would perhaps even consider switching the tie outside for a button so that I could wear a belt with it. Just a suggestion. I actually love the colour of the dress with your hair. You have such lovely colours that you can pull it off.
I thought you looked very nice in the Etta dress, but I know one needs to feel like themself in order to be truly comfortable and confident. Maybe just cinch it in a bit. I thought the colors looked fine on you. You do a marvelous job choosing great colors and prints for yourself! I ❤️ love the billowy sleeves on the other dress! Oh my goodness! Simply fabulous! I have seen someone make little loops that fasten with snaps or velcro that are sewn on the inside of the shoulder seams to encase the bra straps, and therefore hold the sleeves in place and keep them from slipping off the shoulders. Maybe that would be helpful.
Love the maxi skirt and the first dress! I really don't get the oversized look. I love the fabric from dress #2, but the dress just looks like a sack. If I were you I'd just take it apart and make a skirt. Now that coat! I love it! It would be so perfect for layering underneath and staying cozy warm. Your dog looks very glamorous in her coat. Your little brown dog reminds me of my daughter's dog Chloe, very sweet, but she just loves food of any kind and it gets her into so much trouble. I dyed my hair last weekend and it's your colour. When I first took the towel off it was a bit of a shock, now a week later I'm starting to love it. Stay warm!
I came to see this video because I searched for Etta dress. It is absolutely fascinating how important shape is, and this shape seems to be wrong for you. So we don‘t only have to think about colour, but also shape. By contrast the skirt looked so you! Thanks for sharing!
Never saw your channel before...but the Etta dress caught my eye. I recently got that pattern and 5 m if checked fabric to make it but have been hesitant because it seems so huge. Did a muslin of the bodice and really like that so think I will reduce the fabric width in the skirt and use very soft drapey fabric. Love the style...nice to see it on someone and read all the comments
Danni, you’ll love them. Worth keeping an eye on their stories as the good stiff often goes quickly and they seem to be able to say which designer the fabric is from too
I think the problem with the brown tan dress the check squares are not in line at the waist at the front, seems to curve off so looks skewed. I just think it needs taking in at the side as it looks a bit to wide. May look better more fitted. Love the first autumn viscose dress, you look fabulous in it and the brown maxi skirt, just great. Love your chanel.
You have a lovely figure, that style camouflages it and makes you look frumpy. The first 2 dresses so much better suited to you. Thanks I had this pattern on my list, but maybe it would work for me because I’m trying to hide a few things.
Great makes, what a shame over the Etta dress, the fabric is delightful, I think your daughter is right, it does look better with your hair up as it creates a space for definition but from the back its lovely as its more fitted, (sorry that sounds unkind) I think it might be rescuable if you refitted the bodice and took some of the gathers out at the sides, I have a similar issue with M&M patterns, I love the look of the heavily gathered dresses but I have realised unless I do a bodice adjustments, they don’t really suit me. It is a shame as the make is really lovely, I have a whippet and she doesn’t catch and in fact if you ever try to throw a treat to her, she winces and takes it as a personal attack. Great vlog. Thank you for taking the time to share.
Very nice makes that look good on you! I've found the roll-on "glue" called "Stay-On" that is a medical supply works great for keeping straps up or necklines on shoulders. It is water soluble and very easy to use.
I love your wrapped dress! I wouldn’t do anything to it. That’s how it was designed. The color is ok with your hair also, but maybe just a simple braid or bun?
Great makes Alex. I agree with some others that the waist on the Etta dress could be higher, almost empire line. I like the colour too. Top tip on the Linda dress shoulder issue - make a couple of hidden tabs that wrap round you bra straps at the shoulder that fasten with studs, that will stop them falling down.
I’ve been hunting reviews for the Etta dress and this is so helpful! I LOVE how it looks on other people but I’ve been nervous to make it myself as the loose fit of the bodice and waist makes me feel like I’m hiding parts of my figure is usually prefer to be more fitted. True to form, I think it looks completely fabulous on you! But I can totally relate to the feeling that (intentionally or not) it is uncommonly roomy around the waist. Just a matter of personal preference I suppose. I will be following your lead and making up the bodice first, and then if I have similar misgivings about my own, will be referring to the many kind commenters here who suggest taking the hips in and up for a closer fit! Thanks for posting 🥰
Wrap dress is lovely, how about a polo or turtle neck in the pale green or a cream ( or black)that’s one of the colours in squared fabric in the dress underneath ? Reuse hubbies coat and make a new one for you .💕
This is a perfect dress to wear at home. It is loose fitting and allows movement. It also allows a sweater to be worn underneath, which will add to the warmth. The dress needs some shaping on the bodice if it is to become a dress to be worn out. Is it possible to reduce the amount of gathering in the front skirt? There are two layers of fabric in the front, both gathered. As for the colour, which is lovely, it does tend to blend into your hair. A floaty cowl in a dusky pink or soft olive or sage green will break the continuous colour. But maybe splitting this into a skirt and top will work. The pattern isn't big but it is dominant.
Oooh, I'm glad to see you in the TN31 because I've been thinking hard about making one myself, with the hood. You've convinced me. Your man is nuts, that other is gorgeous...
Love the skirt and wrap dress. I made a named clothing boxy tunic dress and had similar feelings about it. I ended up styling it with a black cardigan which helped narrow it up visually and allowed me to wear my hair down. I also added fishnet tights which sexied it up a bit. Love your channel, thanks for posting.
I love the material of the Etta dress and I agree with your daughter about wearing your hair up. I also agree with you that the back looks lovely. I think there are three problems with the front. I noticed that the bodice of the navy dress in the photo was a bit shorter than yours and that made a difference. Secondly the bodice is too wide and lastly the placement of the checks at the front seam means that there is a significant stripe of red that emphasises the width. I always have a problem with baggy styles and find I have to go down several sizes in order to feel comfortable in them.
I am wondering if the Linda dress is a bit too wide across the top back?- maybe you could add narrow ties across the shoulders at the back to keep them in place- I have a RTW with a similar shaped neckline and the tie looks pretty. You probably wouldn’t see much of it under your hair anyway. It looks lovely on you so definitely worth the tweaking so that you actually wear it! I agree with another comment, that the print or weave on the Etta dress is emphasizing the horizontal above the gathers at the front. Great video, thanks.
Hi Alex, from where I’m sitting, the back of the dress looks perfect as well as the colour on you: it just needs a Chunk taking out of each front near the hips. I think it would look fab then.
I love the Merchant and Mills dress, I'd extend the tie that ties inside and put an opening for it to go through so you can draw it to the back to tie and pull it in a bit at your waist. I would also help block the monochrome look of it by adding a mustard coloured turtle or mock neck top under it. It helps break up the colours, give more attention to that colour within the dress and gives you extra warmth for the cooler months. I love your doggy coat, I thought you were going to say you were going to use your husband's coat to make a coat for your other dog too! lol Someone may as well get the use out of it! lol
That's a great idea - I might give it a try, but am more likely to just turn it into a skirt I think. Lola doesn't need a coat, but I may wear it myself or see if my son wants it next time he's home 😀❤
I like the fabric of the wrap dress but I agree that it seems a bit too much at the front. First, may I suggest you put a solid colour polo under it to break up the colour at your neckline. Your search for darts is a subconscious answer to your excess fabric in the top. I don't think you need to take much out to give it a bit of shape at your waist. That way you only need to unpick a bit at the front bodice. Might need to take a bit off the skirt too to reduce the bulk of the gathers across the front. Your matching dog walking coats are wonderful. I can just picture a carved wood stick and brimmed hat to complete your march across the moor. I am a fan of the long skirt design. I made one just like it from a cotton bed sheet fabric a year ago and have got plenty of use out of it over three seasons. Sadly, it's not quite slippery enough to wear over wooly tights. I was thinking of using the skirt portion of the Armidale in a fine needle cord for a winter skirt. Do you think that would work?
I love the M&M dress on you! It might be how you feel because it’s a looser shape. I love the oversized vibe, I am a bit too petite to pull it off convincingly myself but I think you rock it with those big boots. Maybe you’ll adjust, if not looks as though there’s plenty of fabric for a refashion!
Oops commented too soon. So the plaid type dress, I agree, I love the back! We are similarly built and I think it's just too much fabric in the front because it's a heavy looking fabric. What about having the front skirt actually flat, no gathering? And I would make sure that the front waist where it meets, that the pattern of the fabric is not like the same stripe together bringing your eye to it, even if it's supposed to be curved, I would follow the fabric stripe and try not to land with a double stripe or a wonky stripe, if that makes sense because that is catching my eye a bit. I think you could put a lightweight bright colored dicky under it for a pop of color near your face. And I would leave the back as is. The fabric is very cozy and pretty. If you have it in you to take the front skirts off and make them straight, good luck! Love your coats. They are brilliant! Can't let my son see your hubby's coat because awesome and I have too many WIPs in front of that :)
That green on your jacket really made the colour in that 'sad' dress colours and you really pop. So aa seperates that is an idea for what colour item mates could be.
I think the way the crossover on the Etta Dress is an obvious slope (from top left to bottom right on the video), it drags the look downwards. That dragginess is then exacerbated by your hair, and the fullness of the skirt. When you put your hair up it completely changes the look - there is more focus on the neck, everything is uplifted. Also, your hair looks great up! I'm not a fan of crossover dresses, or MM patterns for that matter! I think your hacked skirt looks lovely on you, as does the coat. I LOVE your dogs!
yes, I'd forgotten about the front until I saw the video. It looks off somehow, but I actually spent time getting everything on grain. If it kept it as it is (which I don't think I will). I'd unpick the front. Hey ho 😬❤
@@AlexJudgeSews I didn't mean there was a problem with grain/your sewing, just that the style lines of crossover dresses kind of pull the eye down in general.
I love the autumn coloured check wrap dress. It doesn't worry me about your hair colour but it probably does look good with your hair up. I have very similar colouring to you and I would absolutely wear that dress!
I absolutely love your style, what beautiful makes, you've inspired me to think about long skirts, something I never wear, but love yours! I think your gut feel is right about the wrap dress, but such a wonderful fabric, as is the new Bella loves pattern. But my favourite is seeing Dobby, he is so lovely, from one sight hound owner to another ❤️❤️
I agree with other comments regarding the Etta dress. Love the fabric, and can appreciate the style, but seems a bit voluminous on you. Would love to see the fabric garlands!
Lovely makes. I love the wrap dress! I think if you shortened the bodice a bit and took it in for a more fitted waist you may like it better. I love it as is and would enjoy wearing it all winter. I like loose fitting dresses so much!! Now I want to make one. Beautiful dog! I have always wanted a mini greyhound, they are so beautiful.
It’s interesting that the skirt (which looks great!) reads as overall brown/rust rather than black but it’s a good colour and print! Love the dog coat ❤ I agree about the colour of the Etta dress and while I think it’s ok, it’s not you’re best look. It’s not terrible though so I guess it depends how you feel about it. If you don’t find yourself reaching for it then that’s your answer 😊🥰
First of all the wrap dress: I agree with another viewer(s) to go through the trouble of taking the front bodice off and refitting it, the back looks nice. The dress as is makes you look frumpy which you definitely are not. The other option is to remove the bodice and make the skirt into an actual skirt. Could you refashion the bodice into a vest? I do like the fabric although it does blend in with your hair. By making a vest, it would then be worn with a shirt under, which might help the blending with your hair. I absolutely love the coat you made and the ones you made for your husband and dog. Very fashionable all around. I think I will take a look at that pattern now. BTW, I know what you mean about husbands wearing the same things over and over. 🙄
I understand what you mean about the Etta dress. I made a similar style dress the Reggie from Seamwork an American pattern maker. The plaid didn’t pattern match well and appeared was wonky at the seams. I had to unpick it and fiddle a lot with it to make it wearable. The drape of the double gauze seems limited which may be another reason why the waist looks wide on you. Ties to pull the waist around you more is a good idea I saw mentioned below.
Make a skirt and put some border on bottom of the top and have two separates. Love the dog coat and would love a festive make. Go for it. Off to Harrogate Thursday can’t wait for some fabric shopping. Love the floral viscose.
Hello there! I found your video while doing research on the Etta dress. I'm not sure if you still have it, but for what it's worth, I think you look beautiful in it! But I'm a bit biased as the boxy/loose look is my favorite. May I suggest, since you wanted to wear the dress during fall/winter, to accessorize it with a scarf/cowl/shawl in either a navy blue or hunter green so it cut between the dress and your hair. I totally get how frustrating it is to put time and money in a project and it doesn't come out as you wanted. If you're really set on repurposing the fabric, a maxi skirt would be as beautiful. Hope that help and thank you for your review, it was really helpful!
Hi Alex, love the Bella loves patterns dress and the fabric on the Etta dress, although I think maybe the bodice would look better more fitted & waist line higher. Thanks very much for the tip about Paul at Longsite Market, have bought the same fabric for a big sleeve shirt for my daughter. And some for me of course!!
I love the fabric in the Etta dress. The top part, in my opinion looks great on you. The skirt looks great… I think the middle is the only thing I don’t love. It seems to hit you too low and seems bulky at the gathered waist. The back looks great… if it were a little shorter and the waist a little tighter… I would love it all.
I have the pattern and plain fabric to make it in. I had planned to make the inner front wrap flat and reduce the front gathers on the outer wrap. Do you think that work? I think maybe double gauze is not drapey enough? Maybe take sleeves off and wear black polo under with hair up to break up the line? However you have sewn it well and always look good! Keep up the good work!
The wrap dress would look better as a skirt I think- wear it with a black roll neck. Something about the checks on the front waist looks wonky and creates an illusion which might be adding to the issue. I always like oversized things on other people but hate them on me 😂 The coats are fabulous! And I love those wide leg trousers!
The Etta dress fabric looks beautiful on you. The fabric is made for your skin and hair color. It may be that the bodice is too low. If you had a few inches less on the bodice, the gathered skirt would hit you higher and you would feel better. The pattern styling is flattering to taller ladies like yourself. You can carry the style. Don’t give up on it.
I think the wrap dress looks great but you know I am a forest witch and love a massive dress. I think it looks really good when you put your hair up - probably because it shows more skin and your skin is so light that the contrast with the dark dress is gorgeous!
Hi Alex. Love the skirt. The Linda will be fab once you deal with the naughty shoulders I think. The Etta could have been one size down maybe but I’d be tempted to take in the sides and reduce the circumference of the skirt part. Definitely wear your hair in a pony or at least away from your face because you’re right your hair does blend in. Take Dave’s coat to bits and remake it for yourself and then you and the pup will definitely be matching 😂😂 Enjoy your sewing week 🤓🏴
Some great makes. Loved the matching dog coat. With the M&Mills dress, I think the colour could be made to pop and to suit you better with an Esme-style statement necklace or a very fine central scarf - but it also did look better when your hair was up. I think it's still too oversized for you. I would suggest moving both tie fittings 2 - 3 inches towards the back so it could be pulled closer. I think that would make it sit better on you and still have the general floaty aesthetic. I would really like to see the Christmas garlands.
You know, whenever I make a dress and end up not liking it but can't work out why, it's usually because the waist is too low on me (regardless of where my actual waist is or where the dress is meant to sit!). Otherwise, it would definitely make a lovely skirt!
I personally really love the Etta dress on you, the oversized look suits you, and even think the colour suits you with your hair colour because I find it brings it out. However if you don’t love how you feel in it, then don’t try to force yourself, only wear what you feel really good in and let it go.
Great to see you again, loved your coat , looks great. Your wrap dress is much too wide. I’d take a chunk out of the sides, taken from just under the armhole right down to the hem, then it wouldn’t be so voluminous around your waist. 🧵🪡🇦🇺
Hi, lovely to see you back, sorry you haven’t been well. I love the colour combo in the first outfit, I wish I could wear black. Now to the M&M dress, well, I agree the back looks great but the front not so much and I can’t really work out why, however, I think if you leave it as is you won’t wear it, so I’d look to re-fashion it because that’s a lot of fabric and money to waste. As to what to re-fashion it into, well, at least one skirt! I’m sure you’ll get some great inspiration from others and have something or things you will enjoy wearing, I hope so. Take care 😊
Great makes! You made the Etta perfectly as intended. I prefer an A line style to boxy for a comfortable roomy dress. M&M has such lovely detail in their patterns but alas the style is not for me. Also love the pups!
I think the change in silhouette might be whats tricky with your Etta. If you pin the bodice an inch shorter does it help ? I sewed the Ibi which was really voluminous and it took a bit of getting used to seeing myself in a different shape. We have a summer puppy who is taking a bit of coaxing out when it's wet! Love to see your Christmas flowers!
oh my god I squealed when your beautiful greyhound appeared! what a sweet face and they look so smart too. my greyhound Sparkie woke up and watched the rest of the episode with me :)
Another thought about the Merchant and Mills dress. Why not wear a very light weight, narrow knit shawl at the neck in colour to match the background? Around the neck very casually, not around the shoulders. That would be quite easy.
I think it looks fabulous! I don’t know if you are similar but I don’t like wearing too much fabric because I don’t like the weight and feels like too much volume. I don’t mind the weight of a coat though 😊
Hi Alex. I think the wrap dress seems to have way too much fabric on the side opposite the tie. I feel if you reduced by a handful it would fit much better and be acceptable. My opinion.😯
Fabulous makes as always, I tend to have the urge to copy you after seeing your gear. I have just finished making the wilder gown in a double gauze and while not as oversized as the Etta its just wearing me and I have got to get it into my head not to make this style anymore no matter how lovely it is on others. The Etta isn't great as you have said yourself but I'm sure you can salvage the fabric with some of the suggestions on here. The skirt Cappriccioli is so you as is the Linda and both fit the aesthetic that includes those great trousers you have been making but its always good to experiment as thats how we eventually nail it........
I wonder if it's partly down to the nature of double gauze? I love the Wilder, but have avoided it for the same reason. Experimenting is so much easier when it didn't take hours to make the thing 😫😂❤
Your clothes are lovely! With the double gauze dress, it looks too big around the waist. I think your idea of making a skirt sounds good. That would also solve the problem of the fabric not going with your hair. 🙃Anyway, I love seeing all the clothes you make, even the less successful ones! They aren't awful, just need tweaking. Thank you for another lovely vlog!!
With the wrap dress you could throw on a black blazer and put your hair up in a loose bun style but yeah it does seem bulky in front but the back is fitted.
Joli lab, does a skirt just like what you've made, its called Mint. I love the colours of the first outfit. The second dress is gorgeous. I'm definitely going to have to order this. I *LOVE* your greyhound Dobby's coat. I love greyhounds. We have two, Dobby-long-legs and Goldi. And YES, to the fabric Christmas garland.
I made a dress with the gathering and my hips looked huge so I took some gathers out and it looks a lot better plus a bit out of the sides (at 80 my love handles don’t get used any more ) 😂😂
Yes seperate them. Then you can make the top more fitted in the bodice. Use some off the length of skirt to make the waistband. You could also make the skirt fitted instead of gathered. You will get more use out of two piece garments and they will be 'more' you.
I like the Etta dress but I think it would suit you better if brought in a bit at the sides and also taken up a bit in length. I think the basic style suits you but just needs to be a bit more fitted ( and perhaps reduce the skirt gathering a bit so there’s a little less volume once brought in at sides).
Hello Alex The dress looks like you could take it in a little more Still make it loose but not so huge I made a dress McCall's 8281 in light chambray denim and it was the same I sized down but I think I should have taken volume out of the skirt it's loose but it adds inches around me I made skirt panels a little smaller less gathering it helped I think with your beautiful hair you should tie it up or if I had your hair I would wear it in a trendy angle bob chin length very chic its a beautiful style Its lovely fabric so with a little adjustment I would wear it Happy sewing Take care
I love your Etta but I agree something isn’t quite right. Maybe try it with a cropped,boxy deep, rich dark chocolate brown cardigan to break it up a bit? All your makes are fab and your dogs are gorgeous ☺️
I really love the back of the wrap dress, but the front does need some fitting. Maybe make some darts in the bodice so it’s more fitted, and I might take a black fabric and put a binding on the two wrap sections in the front giving it some contrast.
Hi Alex, I love the Etta Dress. I wonder if the skirt was raised ie so the waist sits a bit higher on you? And perhaps a bit taken off across the width of the front at the waistline?
I really love the fabric chosen for the Etta dress.....but, although oversized dresses sometimes look great I honestly don't think this one works for you. I would change it into a maxi skirt and then wear it with a polo neck sweater in a colour that you would be happy with next to your fabulous hair. Hope this helps, and many thanks for a great video.
Love your dog coat - and your coat is fabulous. I bought the Etta tried a quick toile of the bodice and abandoned it, so keen to see yours. I think you should separate and maybe create a panelled maxi skirt - think you would need to shape the bodice, with darts if you have any hope of making it wearable but because of the colouring you blend in - it’s not you. Love the other makes and your dress is very flattering 😘😘
I was going to make the Etta dress I didn't realise it needed 5m fabric, i only bought 3! Thank you for suggesting to size down, potentially needs two sizes down? I think I would try making it smaller size and potentially shorten the bodice so it falls at a more flattering point, not sure not, or make something else! Think the fabric looks great on you!
Thanks so much, I think two sizes down would have been better, I also like a suggestion below to keep the underside of the wrap flat with no gathers. ❤❤
I would separate the top and wear the skirt of the Etta dress. There seems to be a lot of volume at either side of the waistline, and who needs that? It's so hard buying fabric when you can't hold it up against you. Love your green coat and your sweet doggies!😊
Love the skirt , coat and fitted dress, all such beautiful colours and they really suit you. I felt the same as you about the Etta, it seems to sit out at the waist, and despite the wrap because it is so loose it looks like you might flash your bra if you lean forward. you could made a lovely skirt from it. The Bargain viscose is fabulous it looks expensive and I’ll look forward to seeing more. Did you get to Birmingham or did the cold stop you, I didn’t. It would be great to have a closer meet up. Glad you’re feeling better
I think I would make a skirt from the lower section and pair it with a black top and black boots. Love the dog coat. Lovely greyhound or whippet - seems to be popular breed amongst sewists - I have 2.
I love the fabrics For your first two pieces. It's the size of the print that is nice. The M&M wrap dress looks too big on you. Not bad from the back however the front is just not flattering. If you wanted to take it in and ? raise the waistline. I would shorten it too so that there is some contrast...such as your legs.
Va Va Voom is how you look in the first Bella dress. I have the problem with the shoulders on that style of dress as well. Good tip about checking elastic after the sleeves. I think if you took the bottom of the bodice in I think it would help. I kind of goes A-line. Just my thoughts. Show us the garland.
I think the problem with the Merchant and Mills dress is that there is no where for the eye to rest, it seems too busy. I would match the dark background with a line of trim around the neckline, add turn back cuffs and perhaps change the tie to a solid colour to match the trim.. I like trim in three places on a garment. Dave should where his gorgeous coat!
Hi Alex. I love the first skirt. The slim-ish long skirt is great on you. The colour is phenomenal. The styling was ‘chef’s kiss’. 10/10. I also love the Linda dress, particularly the bodice and fitted waist and (again) slim-ish skirt. The sleeves are next level🥰. The only thing I would change is to make the skirt longer - more like the length of the first skirt which I think is a great look on you (see above comments😋)….But….that can’t be changed and it does look great as it is. Another win IMO (after droopy shoulders are fixed of course 😒). However…….I am not a fan of the Etta. On any level. I don’t think the oversized look is great and I don’t like the design at all. I honestly don’t even think it is attractive on the models that the pattern chose. And I favour a more fitted profile on you (my opinion only!). You DO have the height and figure to rock a long, lean look. Why waste it in a sack🤦♀️. The fabric is, yes, too similar to your hair. And just far too much of it. Funnily enough, once you put the green coat over the top and just had the peek of fabric out from underneath, the colour of the Etta was great. Well, lots of fabric there for a refashion! Your dog coat was very spiffy. I wish my cat would wear a coat🤷🏼♀️ Love your content.❤️❤️❤️❤️
In my opinion re: the Etta dress another size smaller would look better. Maybe the fact that double gauze sticks out mite than the other versions you showed. Otherwise, it has a lot of room for layering underneath on a cold day! I like it.
I love your makes Alex, I'm a long skirt girl too. I made the Merchant & Mills Hattie dress a few years ago and I ended up about a foot and half from the gathers and added a draw string waist. I love oversized but that dress was completely wrong for me in it's original state. Of course my daughter and I think you were upstaged by your beautiful dogs though 😂
I agree, make a skirt with the double gauze. It would balance your hair colour with a solid colour on top. The dress is wearing you, rather than you wearing the dress if that makes sense and I hope not too rude to say that.
Alex the Etta, when you know, you know, I think it's too big! Like you say the back is great but the front needs tweaking! I love the fabric though! Your skirt looks great and the dress is lovely. I'm sure Theresa from Lost my thread has made a top where she made a loop that fitted round her bra strap to stop it slipping of the shoulder.
Yes, that's my fear - that I'll spend more time tinkering with it, but ultimately I'm just not feeling it. Re the annoying shoulders, I'll just unpick a bit and reduced the elastic which should do the trick 💓
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The fabric on the Etta is lovely. I think you could take off the skirt and fit the bodice closer to your size, bringing it in at the sides and also shortening about an inch at the waist. If you fit the bodice closer then I think you would want to take a little volume out of the skirt. I like the idea of tying it at the back. I think it has great potential to become a favorite. Pulling your hair back or wearing a brown scarf might solve the hair issue.
I agree
Thanks so much ❤❤
Yes I agree, you could also wear a roll neck black top underneath.
Or wear it as a sort of coat
The wrap dress looks absolutely fabulous on you!
Hi. The Etta would be fantastic over a roll collar Jersey in winter. I see it as a dress that goes over your woolies.
A big scarf tucked in and some gloves...
Perfect.
Wow! The Etta dress is so lovely. If you haven’t tossed it, I’m thinking the loose and airy feel might be resolved with a nice pair of leggings or thick pair of hosiery.
Of course, I want to see what you are making out of Christmas fabric. I wish I could get motivated to make a coat. Both coats and the dog coat you made are very nice.
Love the Etta wrap dress! Actually think I need to buy the pattern after seeing yours! Funny how we can second guess our makes at first…but you’ve definitely inspired!
Lovely makes! Now, I am not (!) great at hacking patterns, but if it was my wrap dress, I think I would shorten the top a little. Bringing the waist up a little, as well as maybe taking it in slightly, would make a little more shape and still maintain the intention behind the dress.. or what? I would perhaps even consider switching the tie outside for a button so that I could wear a belt with it. Just a suggestion. I actually love the colour of the dress with your hair. You have such lovely colours that you can pull it off.
I thought you looked very nice in the Etta dress, but I know one needs to feel like themself in order to be truly comfortable and confident. Maybe just cinch it in a bit. I thought the colors looked fine on you. You do a marvelous job choosing great colors and prints for yourself!
I ❤️ love the billowy sleeves on the other dress! Oh my goodness! Simply fabulous! I have seen someone make little loops that fasten with snaps or velcro that are sewn on the inside of the shoulder seams to encase the bra straps, and therefore hold the sleeves in place and keep them from slipping off the shoulders. Maybe that would be helpful.
Love the maxi skirt and the first dress! I really don't get the oversized look. I love the fabric from dress #2, but the dress just looks like a sack. If I were you I'd just take it apart and make a skirt. Now that coat! I love it! It would be so perfect for layering underneath and staying cozy warm. Your dog looks very glamorous in her coat. Your little brown dog reminds me of my daughter's dog Chloe, very sweet, but she just loves food of any kind and it gets her into so much trouble. I dyed my hair last weekend and it's your colour. When I first took the towel off it was a bit of a shock, now a week later I'm starting to love it. Stay warm!
I came to see this video because I searched for Etta dress. It is absolutely fascinating how important shape is, and this shape seems to be wrong for you. So we don‘t only have to think about colour, but also shape. By contrast the skirt looked so you! Thanks for sharing!
Never saw your channel before...but the Etta dress caught my eye. I recently got that pattern and 5 m if checked fabric to make it but have been hesitant because it seems so huge. Did a muslin of the bodice and really like that so think I will reduce the fabric width in the skirt and use very soft drapey fabric. Love the style...nice to see it on someone and read all the comments
Yes to matching with our dogs!! I didn't know about Simply Fabrics, now browsing their website! Dx
Danni, you’ll love them. Worth keeping an eye on their stories as the good stiff often goes quickly and they seem to be able to say which designer the fabric is from too
I think the problem with the brown tan dress the check squares are not in line at the waist at the front, seems to curve off so looks skewed. I just think it needs taking in at the side as it looks a bit to wide. May look better more fitted. Love the first autumn viscose dress, you look fabulous in it and the brown maxi skirt, just great. Love your chanel.
You have a lovely figure, that style camouflages it and makes you look frumpy. The first 2 dresses so much better suited to you. Thanks I had this pattern on my list, but maybe it would work for me because I’m trying to hide a few things.
Great makes, what a shame over the Etta dress, the fabric is delightful, I think your daughter is right, it does look better with your hair up as it creates a space for definition but from the back its lovely as its more fitted, (sorry that sounds unkind) I think it might be rescuable if you refitted the bodice and took some of the gathers out at the sides, I have a similar issue with M&M patterns, I love the look of the heavily gathered dresses but I have realised unless I do a bodice adjustments, they don’t really suit me. It is a shame as the make is really lovely, I have a whippet and she doesn’t catch and in fact if you ever try to throw a treat to her, she winces and takes it as a personal attack. Great vlog. Thank you for taking the time to share.
Very nice makes that look good on you! I've found the roll-on "glue" called "Stay-On" that is a medical supply works great for keeping straps up or necklines on shoulders. It is water soluble and very easy to use.
I love your wrapped dress! I wouldn’t do anything to it. That’s how it was designed. The color is ok with your hair also, but maybe just a simple braid or bun?
Great makes Alex. I agree with some others that the waist on the Etta dress could be higher, almost empire line. I like the colour too. Top tip on the Linda dress shoulder issue - make a couple of hidden tabs that wrap round you bra straps at the shoulder that fasten with studs, that will stop them falling down.
I’ve been hunting reviews for the Etta dress and this is so helpful! I LOVE how it looks on other people but I’ve been nervous to make it myself as the loose fit of the bodice and waist makes me feel like I’m hiding parts of my figure is usually prefer to be more fitted.
True to form, I think it looks completely fabulous on you! But I can totally relate to the feeling that (intentionally or not) it is uncommonly roomy around the waist.
Just a matter of personal preference I suppose. I will be following your lead and making up the bodice first, and then if I have similar misgivings about my own, will be referring to the many kind commenters here who suggest taking the hips in and up for a closer fit!
Thanks for posting 🥰
Wrap dress is lovely, how about a polo or turtle neck in the pale green or a cream ( or black)that’s one of the colours in squared fabric in the dress underneath ? Reuse hubbies coat and make a new one for you .💕
This is a perfect dress to wear at home. It is loose fitting and allows movement. It also allows a sweater to be worn underneath, which will add to the warmth. The dress needs some shaping on the bodice if it is to become a dress to be worn out. Is it possible to reduce the amount of gathering in the front skirt? There are two layers of fabric in the front, both gathered. As for the colour, which is lovely, it does tend to blend into your hair. A floaty cowl in a dusky pink or soft olive or sage green will break the continuous colour. But maybe splitting this into a skirt and top will work. The pattern isn't big but it is dominant.
Oooh, I'm glad to see you in the TN31 because I've been thinking hard about making one myself, with the hood. You've convinced me. Your man is nuts, that other is gorgeous...
I agree, I'm going to see if my son wants it next time he's home - if not then I'll wear it 😂
Love the skirt and wrap dress. I made a named clothing boxy tunic dress and had similar feelings about it. I ended up styling it with a black cardigan which helped narrow it up visually and allowed me to wear my hair down. I also added fishnet tights which sexied it up a bit. Love your channel, thanks for posting.
I love the material of the Etta dress and I agree with your daughter about wearing your hair up. I also agree with you that the back looks lovely. I think there are three problems with the front. I noticed that the bodice of the navy dress in the photo was a bit shorter than yours and that made a difference. Secondly the bodice is too wide and lastly the placement of the checks at the front seam means that there is a significant stripe of red that emphasises the width. I always have a problem with baggy styles and find I have to go down several sizes in order to feel comfortable in them.
All great points, thanks so much ❤
I am wondering if the Linda dress is a bit too wide across the top back?- maybe you could add narrow ties across the shoulders at the back to keep them in place- I have a RTW with a similar shaped neckline and the tie looks pretty. You probably wouldn’t see much of it under your hair anyway. It looks lovely on you so definitely worth the tweaking so that you actually wear it!
I agree with another comment, that the print or weave on the Etta dress is emphasizing the horizontal above the gathers at the front. Great video, thanks.
Hi Alex, from where I’m sitting, the back of the dress looks perfect as well as the colour on you: it just needs a Chunk taking out of each front near the hips. I think it would look fab then.
He is clearly delighted with his new coat! Lovely matching
I love the Merchant and Mills dress, I'd extend the tie that ties inside and put an opening for it to go through so you can draw it to the back to tie and pull it in a bit at your waist. I would also help block the monochrome look of it by adding a mustard coloured turtle or mock neck top under it. It helps break up the colours, give more attention to that colour within the dress and gives you extra warmth for the cooler months. I love your doggy coat, I thought you were going to say you were going to use your husband's coat to make a coat for your other dog too! lol Someone may as well get the use out of it! lol
That's a great idea - I might give it a try, but am more likely to just turn it into a skirt I think. Lola doesn't need a coat, but I may wear it myself or see if my son wants it next time he's home 😀❤
I love the wrap dress on you. I once sewed a coat for our Doberman and she was so proud that we just couldn’t help laughing.
I like the fabric of the wrap dress but I agree that it seems a bit too much at the front. First, may I suggest you put a solid colour polo under it to break up the colour at your neckline. Your search for darts is a subconscious answer to your excess fabric in the top. I don't think you need to take much out to give it a bit of shape at your waist. That way you only need to unpick a bit at the front bodice. Might need to take a bit off the skirt too to reduce the bulk of the gathers across the front. Your matching dog walking coats are wonderful. I can just picture a carved wood stick and brimmed hat to complete your march across the moor. I am a fan of the long skirt design. I made one just like it from a cotton bed sheet fabric a year ago and have got plenty of use out of it over three seasons. Sadly, it's not quite slippery enough to wear over wooly tights. I was thinking of using the skirt portion of the Armidale in a fine needle cord for a winter skirt. Do you think that would work?
I love the M&M dress on you! It might be how you feel because it’s a looser shape. I love the oversized vibe, I am a bit too petite to pull it off convincingly myself but I think you rock it with those big boots. Maybe you’ll adjust, if not looks as though there’s plenty of fabric for a refashion!
Oops commented too soon. So the plaid type dress, I agree, I love the back! We are similarly built and I think it's just too much fabric in the front because it's a heavy looking fabric. What about having the front skirt actually flat, no gathering? And I would make sure that the front waist where it meets, that the pattern of the fabric is not like the same stripe together bringing your eye to it, even if it's supposed to be curved, I would follow the fabric stripe and try not to land with a double stripe or a wonky stripe, if that makes sense because that is catching my eye a bit. I think you could put a lightweight bright colored dicky under it for a pop of color near your face. And I would leave the back as is. The fabric is very cozy and pretty. If you have it in you to take the front skirts off and make them straight, good luck! Love your coats. They are brilliant! Can't let my son see your hubby's coat because awesome and I have too many WIPs in front of that :)
That green on your jacket really made the colour in that 'sad' dress colours and you really pop. So aa seperates that is an idea for what colour item mates could be.
I think the way the crossover on the Etta Dress is an obvious slope (from top left to bottom right on the video), it drags the look downwards. That dragginess is then exacerbated by your hair, and the fullness of the skirt. When you put your hair up it completely changes the look - there is more focus on the neck, everything is uplifted. Also, your hair looks great up! I'm not a fan of crossover dresses, or MM patterns for that matter! I think your hacked skirt looks lovely on you, as does the coat. I LOVE your dogs!
yes, I'd forgotten about the front until I saw the video. It looks off somehow, but I actually spent time getting everything on grain. If it kept it as it is (which I don't think I will). I'd unpick the front. Hey ho 😬❤
@@AlexJudgeSews I didn't mean there was a problem with grain/your sewing, just that the style lines of crossover dresses kind of pull the eye down in general.
I love the autumn coloured check wrap dress. It doesn't worry me about your hair colour but it probably does look good with your hair up. I have very similar colouring to you and I would absolutely wear that dress!
I absolutely love your style, what beautiful makes, you've inspired me to think about long skirts, something I never wear, but love yours! I think your gut feel is right about the wrap dress, but such a wonderful fabric, as is the new Bella loves pattern. But my favourite is seeing Dobby, he is so lovely, from one sight hound owner to another ❤️❤️
I still think we need our own special Sighthound sewist crew - there's quite a lot of us out there 😂
@@AlexJudgeSews I'd sign up immediately!
I agree with other comments regarding the Etta dress. Love the fabric, and can appreciate the style, but seems a bit voluminous on you. Would love to see the fabric garlands!
Lovely makes. I love the wrap dress! I think if you shortened the bodice a bit and took it in for a more fitted waist you may like it better. I love it as is and would enjoy wearing it all winter. I like loose fitting dresses so much!! Now I want to make one. Beautiful dog! I have always wanted a mini greyhound, they are so beautiful.
It’s interesting that the skirt (which looks great!) reads as overall brown/rust rather than black but it’s a good colour and print! Love the dog coat ❤
I agree about the colour of the Etta dress and while I think it’s ok, it’s not you’re best look. It’s not terrible though so I guess it depends how you feel about it. If you don’t find yourself reaching for it then that’s your answer 😊🥰
First of all the wrap dress: I agree with another viewer(s) to go through the trouble of taking the front bodice off and refitting it, the back looks nice. The dress as is makes you look frumpy which you definitely are not. The other option is to remove the bodice and make the skirt into an actual skirt. Could you refashion the bodice into a vest? I do like the fabric although it does blend in with your hair. By making a vest, it would then be worn with a shirt under, which might help the blending with your hair. I absolutely love the coat you made and the ones you made for your husband and dog. Very fashionable all around. I think I will take a look at that pattern now. BTW, I know what you mean about husbands wearing the same things over and over. 🙄
I understand what you mean about the Etta dress. I made a similar style dress the Reggie from Seamwork an American pattern maker. The plaid didn’t pattern match well and appeared was wonky at the seams. I had to unpick it and fiddle a lot with it to make it wearable. The drape of the double gauze seems limited which may be another reason why the waist looks wide on you. Ties to pull the waist around you more is a good idea I saw mentioned below.
Yep, I didn't think through the fabric choice properly 😢😂❤
Make a skirt and put some border on bottom of the top and have two separates. Love the dog coat and would love a festive make. Go for it. Off to Harrogate Thursday can’t wait for some fabric shopping. Love the floral viscose.
Hello there! I found your video while doing research on the Etta dress. I'm not sure if you still have it, but for what it's worth, I think you look beautiful in it! But I'm a bit biased as the boxy/loose look is my favorite. May I suggest, since you wanted to wear the dress during fall/winter, to accessorize it with a scarf/cowl/shawl in either a navy blue or hunter green so it cut between the dress and your hair. I totally get how frustrating it is to put time and money in a project and it doesn't come out as you wanted. If you're really set on repurposing the fabric, a maxi skirt would be as beautiful. Hope that help and thank you for your review, it was really helpful!
Hi Alex, love the Bella loves patterns dress and the fabric on the Etta dress, although I think maybe the bodice would look better more fitted & waist line higher. Thanks very much for the tip about Paul at Longsite Market, have bought the same fabric for a big sleeve shirt for my daughter. And some for me of course!!
Love the wrap dress. And fabric Xmas gardens sound intriguing!
Love them all! The Etta just looks like the bodice needs shortening a bit to bring the waist line up closer to your natural waist
Put a black turtle neck under the dress. Fit the bodice a bit more, then add black piping on the bodice. BTW love the paintings off to the side.
I love the fabric in the Etta dress. The top part, in my opinion looks great on you. The skirt looks great… I think the middle is the only thing I don’t love. It seems to hit you too low and seems bulky at the gathered waist. The back looks great… if it were a little shorter and the waist a little tighter… I would love it all.
Try taking the sleeves off the Etta and wear a polo neck underneath to provide a contrast with your hair
I have the pattern and plain fabric to make it in. I had planned to make the inner front wrap flat and reduce the front gathers on the outer wrap. Do you think that work? I think maybe double gauze is not drapey enough? Maybe take sleeves off and wear black polo under with hair up to break up the line? However you have sewn it well and always look good! Keep up the good work!
That's a great idea, if I were starting over that's what I'd do - arghh 😂❤
The wrap dress would look better as a skirt I think- wear it with a black roll neck. Something about the checks on the front waist looks wonky and creates an illusion which might be adding to the issue.
I always like oversized things on other people but hate them on me 😂
The coats are fabulous! And I love those wide leg trousers!
Can't wait to see the next rendition of your Mommy & Me coats!
😂😂 Can you imagine what I'll be like when I become a grandmother! (not anytime soon, I hope).
The Etta dress fabric looks beautiful on you. The fabric is made for your skin and hair color. It may be that the bodice is too low. If you had a few inches less on the bodice, the gathered skirt would hit you higher and you would feel better. The pattern styling is flattering to taller ladies like yourself. You can carry the style. Don’t give up on it.
The Linda dress looks wonderful on you. I hope you fix the shoulders so you are comfortable in it because this dress suits you so well 😁
I think the wrap dress looks great but you know I am a forest witch and love a massive dress. I think it looks really good when you put your hair up - probably because it shows more skin and your skin is so light that the contrast with the dark dress is gorgeous!
😂😂 it's more you than it is me, it's heading for some quality time with my seam ripper - or maybe a swift chop 😘
Hi Alex. Love the skirt. The Linda will be fab once you deal with the naughty shoulders I think. The Etta could have been one size down maybe but I’d be tempted to take in the sides and reduce the circumference of the skirt part. Definitely wear your hair in a pony or at least away from your face because you’re right your hair does blend in.
Take Dave’s coat to bits and remake it for yourself and then you and the pup will definitely be matching 😂😂
Enjoy your sewing week 🤓🏴
Oh, Alex, that COAT!😍 Regarding the gauze dress: I see what you mean...perhaps take out some of the bulk at, the waist?😉❤️
Some great makes. Loved the matching dog coat.
With the M&Mills dress, I think the colour could be made to pop and to suit you better with an Esme-style statement necklace or a very fine central scarf - but it also did look better when your hair was up. I think it's still too oversized for you. I would suggest moving both tie fittings 2 - 3 inches towards the back so it could be pulled closer. I think that would make it sit better on you and still have the general floaty aesthetic.
I would really like to see the Christmas garlands.
You know, whenever I make a dress and end up not liking it but can't work out why, it's usually because the waist is too low on me (regardless of where my actual waist is or where the dress is meant to sit!). Otherwise, it would definitely make a lovely skirt!
I personally really love the Etta dress on you, the oversized look suits you, and even think the colour suits you with your hair colour because I find it brings it out. However if you don’t love how you feel in it, then don’t try to force yourself, only wear what you feel really good in and let it go.
Thanks Eileen ❤❤
Great to see you again, loved your coat , looks great. Your wrap dress is much too wide. I’d take a chunk out of the sides, taken from just under the armhole right down to the hem, then it wouldn’t be so voluminous around your waist. 🧵🪡🇦🇺
Great idea!!
Hi, lovely to see you back, sorry you haven’t been well. I love the colour combo in the first outfit, I wish I could wear black. Now to the M&M dress, well, I agree the back looks great but the front not so much and I can’t really work out why, however, I think if you leave it as is you won’t wear it, so I’d look to re-fashion it because that’s a lot of fabric and money to waste. As to what to re-fashion it into, well, at least one skirt! I’m sure you’ll get some great inspiration from others and have something or things you will enjoy wearing, I hope so. Take care 😊
Thanks Jane, it's great to have my thoughts confirmed and yes, I agree the back looks so much better! ❤
Great makes! You made the Etta perfectly as intended. I prefer an A line style to boxy for a comfortable roomy dress. M&M has such lovely detail in their patterns but alas the style is not for me.
Also love the pups!
Love all the outfits, I work in Abakhan Birkenhead so Yay for the mention, even though I'm guessing your local is our Manchester branch x
I bought it in Liverpool, so close! My son is at Uni there, so I try to tack on a visit to Abakhan when I give him a lift 😀
I think the change in silhouette might be whats tricky with your Etta. If you pin the bodice an inch shorter does it help ? I sewed the Ibi which was really voluminous and it took a bit of getting used to seeing myself in a different shape. We have a summer puppy who is taking a bit of coaxing out when it's wet! Love to see your Christmas flowers!
That red lipstick looks amazing with your hair! And I might have to give apolline and bella loves patterns a go
Alex why don't you take the gathers out of overlap at front....maybe leave a flat panel down the centre.
oh my god I squealed when your beautiful greyhound appeared! what a sweet face and they look so smart too. my greyhound Sparkie woke up and watched the rest of the episode with me :)
You are so kind
Another thought about the Merchant and Mills dress. Why not wear a very light weight, narrow knit shawl at the neck in colour to match the background? Around the neck very casually, not around the shoulders. That would be quite easy.
I think it looks fabulous! I don’t know if you are similar but I don’t like wearing too much fabric because I don’t like the weight and feels like too much volume. I don’t mind the weight of a coat though 😊
Hi Alex. I think the wrap dress seems to have way too much fabric on the side opposite the tie. I feel if you reduced by a handful it would fit much better and be acceptable. My opinion.😯
Fabulous makes as always, I tend to have the urge to copy you after seeing your gear. I have just finished making the wilder gown in a double gauze and while not as oversized as the Etta its just wearing me and I have got to get it into my head not to make this style anymore no matter how lovely it is on others. The Etta isn't great as you have said yourself but I'm sure you can salvage the fabric with some of the suggestions on here. The skirt Cappriccioli is so you as is the Linda and both fit the aesthetic that includes those great trousers you have been making but its always good to experiment as thats how we eventually nail it........
I wonder if it's partly down to the nature of double gauze? I love the Wilder, but have avoided it for the same reason. Experimenting is so much easier when it didn't take hours to make the thing 😫😂❤
Your clothes are lovely! With the double gauze dress, it looks too big around the waist. I think your idea of making a skirt sounds good. That would also solve the problem of the fabric not going with your hair. 🙃Anyway, I love seeing all the clothes you make, even the less successful ones! They aren't awful, just need tweaking. Thank you for another lovely vlog!!
With the wrap dress you could throw on a black blazer and put your hair up in a loose bun style but yeah it does seem bulky in front but the back is fitted.
Joli lab, does a skirt just like what you've made, its called Mint. I love the colours of the first outfit. The second dress is gorgeous. I'm definitely going to have to order this. I *LOVE* your greyhound Dobby's coat. I love greyhounds. We have two, Dobby-long-legs and Goldi. And YES, to the fabric Christmas garland.
There's definitely a sighthound owners/sewists cross over, so many of us have the gangly ones in our lives 😀❤
I made a dress with the gathering and my hips looked huge so I took some gathers out and it looks a lot better plus a bit out of the sides (at 80 my love handles don’t get used any more ) 😂😂
Hair up and a very awesome wide belt.
Yes seperate them. Then you can make the top more fitted in the bodice. Use some off the length of skirt to make the waistband. You could also make the skirt fitted instead of gathered. You will get more use out of two piece garments and they will be 'more' you.
That's a great point, I'll see how it looks as a skirt as a first step ❤
I like the Etta dress but I think it would suit you better if brought in a bit at the sides and also taken up a bit in length. I think the basic style suits you but just needs to be a bit more fitted ( and perhaps reduce the skirt gathering a bit so there’s a little less volume once brought in at sides).
Hello Alex
The dress looks like you could take it in a little more
Still make it loose but not so huge
I made a dress McCall's 8281 in light chambray denim and it was the same I sized down but I think I should have taken volume out of the skirt it's loose but it adds inches around me I made skirt panels a little smaller less gathering it helped
I think with your beautiful hair you should tie it up or if I had your hair I would wear it in a trendy angle bob chin length very chic its a beautiful style
Its lovely fabric so with a little adjustment I would wear it
Happy sewing
Take care
I love your Etta but I agree something isn’t quite right. Maybe try it with a cropped,boxy deep, rich dark chocolate brown cardigan to break it up a bit? All your makes are fab and your dogs are gorgeous ☺️
oooh great idea and guess who's waiting for a delivery of a chocolate brown cropped sweater!!!!! 😂
I really love the back of the wrap dress, but the front does need some fitting. Maybe make some darts in the bodice so it’s more fitted, and I might take a black fabric and put a binding on the two wrap sections in the front giving it some contrast.
Hi Alex, I love the Etta Dress. I wonder if the skirt was raised ie so the waist sits a bit higher on you? And perhaps a bit taken off across the width of the front at the waistline?
I really love the fabric chosen for the Etta dress.....but, although oversized dresses sometimes look great I honestly don't think this one works
for you. I would change it into a maxi skirt and then wear it with a polo neck sweater in a colour that you would be happy with next to your
fabulous hair. Hope this helps, and many thanks for a great video.
I totally agree!
Love your skirt! The full sleeves on the second dress were really pretty. You can always adjust the elastic more.
Cheryl
Yes, that's today's job 😂. If I don't do it immediately I'll end up in the pile of doom ❤
Love your dog coat - and your coat is fabulous. I bought the Etta tried a quick toile of the bodice and abandoned it, so keen to see yours. I think you should separate and maybe create a panelled maxi skirt - think you would need to shape the bodice, with darts if you have any hope of making it wearable but because of the colouring you blend in - it’s not you. Love the other makes and your dress is very flattering 😘😘
You're right Marilyn, at the moment it's just not me 😢😂
I was going to make the Etta dress I didn't realise it needed 5m fabric, i only bought 3! Thank you for suggesting to size down, potentially needs two sizes down? I think I would try making it smaller size and potentially shorten the bodice so it falls at a more flattering point, not sure not, or make something else! Think the fabric looks great on you!
Thanks so much, I think two sizes down would have been better, I also like a suggestion below to keep the underside of the wrap flat with no gathers. ❤❤
Love, love your Etta dress. 👌💕
I would separate the top and wear the skirt of the Etta dress. There seems to be a lot of volume at either side of the waistline, and who needs that? It's so hard buying fabric when you can't hold it up against you. Love your green coat and your sweet doggies!😊
nobody needs that Karen 😂. I'm interested to read the suggestions, but I think turn it into a skirt is definitely my fall back position.
Love the skirt , coat and fitted dress, all such beautiful colours and they really suit you. I felt the same as you about the Etta, it seems to sit out at the waist, and despite the wrap because it is so loose it looks like you might flash your bra if you lean forward. you could made a lovely skirt from it. The Bargain viscose is fabulous it looks expensive and I’ll look forward to seeing more. Did you get to Birmingham or did the cold stop you, I didn’t. It would be great to have a closer meet up. Glad you’re feeling better
I think I would make a skirt from the lower section and pair it with a black top and black boots. Love the dog coat. Lovely greyhound or whippet - seems to be popular breed amongst sewists - I have 2.
I love the fabrics For your first two pieces. It's the size of the print that is nice. The M&M wrap dress looks too big on you. Not bad from the back however the front is just not flattering. If you wanted to take it in and ? raise the waistline. I would shorten it too so that there is some contrast...such as your legs.
Va Va Voom is how you look in the first Bella dress. I have the problem with the shoulders on that style of dress as well. Good tip about checking elastic after the sleeves. I think if you took the bottom of the bodice in I think it would help. I kind of goes A-line. Just my thoughts. Show us the garland.
It does look quite different with your hair up. How would it look with a jumper underneath and hair down, does that work any better?
I think the problem with the Merchant and Mills dress is that there is no where for the eye to rest, it seems too busy. I would match the dark background with a line of trim around the neckline, add turn back cuffs and perhaps change the tie to a solid colour to match the trim.. I like trim in three places on a garment. Dave should where his gorgeous coat!
Yes, great points Marie - Dave's coat is going to be offered to our son, if not then I'll have it 😂❤
Hi Alex. I love the first skirt. The slim-ish long skirt is great on you. The colour is phenomenal. The styling was ‘chef’s kiss’. 10/10. I also love the Linda dress, particularly the bodice and fitted waist and (again) slim-ish skirt. The sleeves are next level🥰. The only thing I would change is to make the skirt longer - more like the length of the first skirt which I think is a great look on you (see above comments😋)….But….that can’t be changed and it does look great as it is. Another win IMO (after droopy shoulders are fixed of course 😒).
However…….I am not a fan of the Etta. On any level. I don’t think the oversized look is great and I don’t like the design at all. I honestly don’t even think it is attractive on the models that the pattern chose. And I favour a more fitted profile on you (my opinion only!). You DO have the height and figure to rock a long, lean look. Why waste it in a sack🤦♀️. The fabric is, yes, too similar to your hair. And just far too much of it. Funnily enough, once you put the green coat over the top and just had the peek of fabric out from underneath, the colour of the Etta was great. Well, lots of fabric there for a refashion!
Your dog coat was very spiffy. I wish my cat would wear a coat🤷🏼♀️
Love your content.❤️❤️❤️❤️
In my opinion re: the Etta dress another size smaller would look better. Maybe the fact that double gauze sticks out mite than the other versions you showed. Otherwise, it has a lot of room for layering underneath on a cold day! I like it.
I love your makes Alex, I'm a long skirt girl too. I made the Merchant & Mills Hattie dress a few years ago and I ended up about a foot and half from the gathers and added a draw string waist. I love oversized but that dress was completely wrong for me in it's original state. Of course my daughter and I think you were upstaged by your beautiful dogs though 😂
* I removed the gathers
Doggies first everytime 😂
I agree, make a skirt with the double gauze. It would balance your hair colour with a solid colour on top. The dress is wearing you, rather than you wearing the dress if that makes sense and I hope not too rude to say that.
No, not rude at all it's really helpful to have my fears confirmed 😘
Alex the Etta, when you know, you know, I think it's too big! Like you say the back is great but the front needs tweaking! I love the fabric though! Your skirt looks great and the dress is lovely. I'm sure Theresa from Lost my thread has made a top where she made a loop that fitted round her bra strap to stop it slipping of the shoulder.
Yes, that's my fear - that I'll spend more time tinkering with it, but ultimately I'm just not feeling it. Re the annoying shoulders, I'll just unpick a bit and reduced the elastic which should do the trick 💓