Welcome to December from the Blank Slate Sewing Team. I am Stacey Ross with Margarita on the Ross, bringing you a holiday version of the Blank Slate Patterns Marbella Dress (affiliate link). If you are anything like me, you are frantically trying to complete all of your holiday sewing. Atop my list for the past couple of years has been a new dress for my non-existent Christmas parties. All dressed up and no place to go! But it’s better to be prepared for that last-minute invite.
Glitz is this month’s theme for the Blank Slate Sewing Team blog posts. Although I did not go all out glitz, my Marbella Dress has just enough shine to stand out this season.
I chose to make the pullover bodice with a knee length skirt in this luxurious navy stretch velvet knit from Raspberry Creek Fabrics. I love the simple sheen of the material. It really takes a clean line dress and gives it a little glitz.
The darts in the bodice give it a great shape. Don’t be afraid of darts! Melissa gives an excellent description of how to adjust the darts to make the bodice fit you perfectly.
Another feature of the bodice that I really enjoy is the neckline facing. I did topstitch my neckline to ensure the facing stays put since this fabric does not press all that well.
I chose to leave off the pockets from the skirt since I always carry a purse. Well, technically a backpack. However, the pockets are a must for a lot of women and are a functional option with the pattern.
I paired my dress with some simple jewelry and some accented rhinestone accented high heels that are unfortunately buried in the grass in these pictures. I could easily switch up the jewelry for a late night party.
Although the Marbella is typically seen in lightweight summer fabrics, this dress is the perfect winter option as well with the right fabric. I hope everyone has successful holiday sewing time. Make sure to create something beautiful for yourself.
Until next time…sewing and sipping,
Stacey
Pennyfp
Ok, THAT dress rocks! I love the fabric! You look amazing! Great job!!
Abbey
Stacey, you look FABULOUS in this colour!!!