Review: Vogue 8961 | Holiday Glam in Black and Silver Abstract Sequins!

'Tis the season to be sparkling!  What's the holiday season with sparkle and shine?  I'll tell you:  dull!  Don't be dull, add some sequins to your holiday (and beyond) wardrobe. 

My latest addition was inspired by this gorgeous black and silver abstract baby sequins fabric from Mood Fabrics.

When I fell head over heels in love with this fabric, I knew I needed a simple design that would let this fabric shine (pun intended) and let it be the star.  I needed a design that has a limited amount of seams, darts, pleats, pockets and set-in sleeves.  This dress is a blouson-style with an overall looser fit.  It was perfect since this fabric is non-stretch and should be treated like a woven.

I decided to cut this fabric cross grain.  I liked the way the pattern on the fabric fell when lying that way.  When cutting sequin fabric, I would recommend cutting on a single layer and using a rotary cutter.  I say a rotary cutter because the blades are disposable and can easily be replaced with a fresh one.  If you cut with scissors, my suggestion would be to use a pair that are not used to cut fabric. 

This ridiculously easy pattern (Vogue 8961) was a breeze to sew.    I made it straight out of the envelope with very few alterations or modifications.  I only added about three inches to the skirt.  My recommendation while sewing sequins is to use new and sharp needles.  

My favorite part are the sleeves.  I love that they are elasticized and ruched.  

And since I cut the fabric on the cross grain, I was able to just trim around the mesh in the selvage area and use the print design instead of worrying about hemming. 

And while pressing, always press on the wrong side using your pressing cloth.  Because steam and moisture could damaged the sequins.