It's not pretty

Sometimes I get a little bit discouraged seeing how awesome all the projects are on Sew Retro. Is there a rule that we should only post the ones that turn out well? Or does everybody only post the projects they are proud of? I hope I'm not out of line posting something that didn't turn out well.

I'm still pretty new to sewing, and I mess up A LOT. My last post here was the dress with with the failed first attempt at sleeves. On this project, Vogue 2848, I got the sleeves right, but the dress is so big through the shoulders that it's awful. I didn't bother to finish it. See for yourself:

The dress is awful, but it's not a complete failure. I am now almost over my fear of working with a knit, and the sleeves actually turned out OK. Some day I may revisit this one and turn it into something wearable, but not any time soon.

More details about it on my blog, Chronically Uncool.

Designer Retro Patterns

I wanted to let you know about this great resource I found tonight. Paper Pursuits, is a web site where you can find and order print fashion collectibles, such as official fashion show catalogs from Versace, Valentino, and Hermes. Or old fashion magazines from vintage 1930's Harper Bazaar to international fashion magazines to more recent issues of W and InStyle.

Most exciting though is that they offer the Vogue Couturier Design, Vogue Paris Original and Vogue Americana pattern collections from the 60's-70's. These patterns featured designers like Pucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy, Nina Ricci, Bill Blass, and Pierre Cardin. Just look at these great designs and their unique details:



They are pricey though, from $24 to $58 per pattern. However, just looking at them has given me ideas. I love this one and this one. Enjoy.