Project 1

The design expectations for this project were, to create a dress based on the dresses of the 1950's. The dresses often worn by movie stars like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe. Design specifications included a full, half or three-quarters of a circular skirt as well as requiring the use of draping techniques and flat patterning techniques.

I chose to create a dress inspired by a combination of 1953 Hollywood fashions and mid 1980's fashion like those of "Pretty in Pink." I was particularly inspired by the necklines and six paneled skirts of the 1950's and the mid-calf length dresses and polished punk styles of the 1980's.

Process and Detail Photos

Apr 2014 - Mar 2015

model in photos: Rachel Strawn

This dress was created using a combination of haute coture techniques and ready-to-wear applications.

The process began with choosing a dress form with the same measurements as the model. The bodice was then carefully draped and fitted, after taping out the desired neck-line. This muslin drape was then fitted to the model and the skirt was flat patterned based on the measurements taken at the beginning of the process.

The final fabric was then selected and it was decided that the bodice would be lined with the self fabric for stability. The skirt was to be made of two layers, a pink cotton-polyester blend and the overlay made of a patterned tulle with faux velvet pattern polka dots.

The patterns were then cut out of the final fabric and the bodice was hand stitched while being shaped and pressed. The skirt layers were machine stitched and attached at the waist before the application of the zipper. Individual snaps were then applied to close the overlay and hide the zipper.

The finishing touches, hem and final fitting were done and the dress was ready to be worn and photographed.

Project 1

Work done at the Paris American Academy.