A Linen Dress Goes to Newport

As a couture sewist I value special details and getting into a state of flow. But, when it is time to share those special details I need a space where I can think freely. I am hoping this can be it.

At some point I will share more of the “why” of starting a newsletter. But, I want to give you a taste of what you can expect from the newsletter.

1. you can expect a MONTHLY emailed newsletter to your inbox.

2. Monthly means you will get more content in one email. It also coincides with how couture sewing works…it is a slow and detailed process. So, we will take the time to do it correctly.

3. As someone who enjoys to share, I hope that this will be an appropriate place to share deeper thoughts.

4. You will see all of my sewing projects. You will learn about the fabrics, techniques, and stories behind the work. This will serve as inspiration in your own sewing OR shopping…what to look for to know if a garment is really as nice as the price point says it is.

5. You will see a wardrobe be created that Princess Kate Middleton and Princess Charlotte (Kids clothes!) would want to borrow.

6. You can also expect to hear thoughts about motherhood, antique finds, and lifestyle tid-bits.

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Let’s get to it!

Wearing the McCall's 8286 dress around the Newport Mansion Grounds

The Pattern: McCall’s 8286

The Fabric: Deadstock Isle of Wight Cotton/Linen from The New Craft House (sold out)

What does Deadstock mean? You will hear this word a lot on my newsletter. Deadstock are the “leftovers” of the fashion industry. Historically, most of these deadstock fabrics would be simply thrown away, eventually making their way into landfills.

Sometimes fabric shops will tell me which designer the fabric came from. This one came from the Incredible designer Emilia Wickstead. Who else wears Emilia Wickstead? The Great Princess Kate, that’s who!

Kate Middleton in three Emilia Wickstead dresses

Please note that she was visiting Harvard when she wore the houndstooth dress and I saw her walk in!

I did make a muslin of the pattern and made many fitting alterations. Then I cut out the fashion fabric. I didn’t take many photos of the process. But it was a process!

Some detailed photos that can only be seen on the newsletter. :)

Freshly pressed collar, curved hem-line, faux-wrap detail, PLUS covered buttons (my favorite), and a guest appearance from Baby Bonnie

I wore this dress to the Newport Mansions with some of my greatest friends. It felt nice to wear it amongst such beautiful pieces from the gilded age.

Enjoy some photos from Newport, Rhode Island

What is in next month’s newsletter?!

Next month I will share our Halloween costume! And, my thoughts on Halloween decor. Can you guess what I am going to be based off of this photo?? Post your guesses in the comments! Hint: you’ve got to be a child of the 80’s/90’s.

Thank you for subscribing to my newsletter! As it’s my first one, please know that things will only improve from here.

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