Faux Leather Belted Shirt Dress!
12:30 PM
I'm sure your first thought is: "Erica, it's hot as hell outside? Why leather, sis?" Because you can wear leather and faux leather all year, even in the scorching hot months. Leather is no warmer than denim, in my opinion. Plus, I have no plans to be standing outside, you know! I move from one air conditioned spot to the next. Now, on to this cute dress...
It all started when I saw this cute faux leather dress from a brand called Nanushka. They make the best faux leather pieces. They all look amazing. I'd ordered this Powder Blue Faux Leather from Minerva and I knew it would be perfect in replicating this dress.
I used McCall's 8086 and I made several changes. First, I cut a straight hem that stopped mid-thigh.
I shortened the sleeves and drafted a hidden button placket.
I edge stitched all of my seams. And I drafted a belt.
I added a center back seam and I made a full seat adjustment.
I edge stitched these seams also.
Here are some of my favorite tips for working with leather and faux leather:
Faux leather and leather sew basically the same. You’ll need a leather needle. I used a size 16/100. You’ll also need specialty sewing machine feet. When I sew with leather, I like to use a walking foot, a non-stick foot or a rolling foot. When cutting leather, I prefer a rotary cutter and a self-healing mat instead of scissors because I like the clean edge. You also should cut leather on a single layer instead of on the fold.
Also, be mindful that pins can leave holes in leather. You can use them, but be careful and only pin in the seam allowances. Or, you can use Wonderclips or small binder clips. Make sure you transfer all of you markings, but don’t use a tracing wheel. Like pins, tracing wheels can also leave holes. Use chalk, but test on a scrap to see if it will be easily removed with a damp cloth.
You can forgo seam finishing because leather doesn’t fray.
Pressing? Yes! You can press leather and faux leather. BUT, it must be done CAREFULLY and CAUTIOUSLY. Use a piece of muslin, cotton fabric or silk organza as pressing cloth with your iron on a lower setting. Use a scrap piece to test out your adjusted settings.
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14 comments
Beautiful dress! Thanks for all the good sewing tips, and the link to Minerva. I'm eyeing the red, for a jacket.
ReplyDeleteI hope you enjoy your cut as much as I did this. It sews beautifully. Thanks Julie!
DeleteSuch a clean finish, very pretty color! Absolutely gorgeous
ReplyDeleteI normally go for warmer tones, but I do love this blue. Thanks Lunie Blue!
DeleteThat is an amazing dress!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Nancy!
DeleteLove that color of blue and the edge stitching looks great!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Belle!
DeleteThe Queen does it again! This is a beautiful garment. And those exquisite details. Fantastic job!
ReplyDeleteKimberly Wilkes
This is so pretty! This shade of blue is just superb on your skin though sis! And with these shoes, this whole outfit is FAB!
ReplyDeleteBut yeah, I'd be on the skeptical side of wearing it in this heat that's been melting us in Barbados since March. Ugggghhhh. Wouldn't wear a denim jumpsuit in this heat either and only ever wear my lightest coloured stretch denim jeans during summer.
Just beautiful! I love the tips you gave too.
ReplyDeleteThis dress is amazing! As always, the workmanship is fantastic, and the color is gorgeous too.
ReplyDeleteGreat dress... spectacular edge stitching!!! What stitch length did you use for it?
ReplyDeleteYou do such beautiful work, and the fit is excellent. I enjoy reading about your projects.
ReplyDelete