Downton Abbey Inspired Dress

Have you seen the Downton Abbey inspired series going over at Charming Doodle?  Several bloggers have been posting their take on all things Downton and 1920s, including fashion, sewing, and food.  I just couldn't help but sew along.  I love the show and the era that they're in.  

This girl was ecstatic that I made her this dress, which is unusual.  Must be the full moon!  

No bribing for photos necessary this time!

I would love to make myself a dress like this, but I already had this beautiful material on hand and just enough for her size.  The dress is made of the same stretch velvet as this shirt (and you'll see it again next week).  I drafted the dress off of her measurements into a slight A line.  The drop waist was gathered using a couple rows of shirring, which I was surprised worked so well with this material.

When I was dreaming up a design, I knew right away that I'd make pleated shoulder straps that formed a V in the front.  A lot of the Downton Dresses are straight silhouettes with detailing at the neckline.  There's often a sheer overlay going on around the shoulders and embellishments like beading and lace.

I had the toughest time with deciding the trim!  I had this trim from JoAnn and knew it'd be perfect.  Elisa also used this lace when showing different 1920's trends, so I almost didn't use it, but I'm glad I did!

I made her some matching lace gloves, but they are way too large.  I would've easily fixed that but she will not take them off!  I'll have to wait until she's sleeping ;)

The headpiece she has on is one that I had knit for myself during the last season of Project Sewn.  One day I'll use the pattern right and make the entire hat…

This sure was a fun one to create!
Make sure to check out the series and all the awesome 1920's creations!  Also check out the Snowflakes and Lace series going on at SewVery and SewingMamaRaeAnna to get more ideas of how to use lace trim.