One Hit Wonder # 2, Simplicity 2588

Time for another of my one-hit-wonders, a dress I made in a hurry and only wore once. Simplicity 2588, which is a very cute Project Runway pattern.  Detour to discuss:  anyone else prepared for disappointment regarding tonight's premiere of PR?  The last few seasons have been something of a letdown, never quite hitting the heights of some early seasons and don't get me started on the All Star version, mostly a waste of time. Here's hoping that they have found some people with actual talent and sewing experience to make it interesting.  As for the Project Runway patterns from Simplicity . . .? I don't see any connection other than a branding opportunity, although I often find nice styles. They seem undifferentiated from the rest of their patterns.


Enough editorializing for now, what about the dress? Hanging lonely and unworn in my closet. Here is why I should plan better for wardrobe basics.  A wedding to go to, 5pm ceremony, outdoors, cocktails on a patio at a hilltop winery, dinner indoors after, October, could be warm, more likely chilly, could be freezing . . . Get the drift?  Perfect opportunity for a nice 2-piece outfit, maybe a fitted sheath dress and coat in a wool crepe. I do have one in my closet, but not quite fitting at that time, dress a little tight in the hips.  So I will wear a dressy black jacket I have to ward off the potential chill.  What dress?  How about this black/pink floral fabric. I rarely wear black. Not really black, it's a print. Always wanted to make S2588. Quickly cut out and sew up. Seems to fit OK. Finish pressing, get dressed and go. And then all evening wished I was wearing a full length coat as it was more than a bit cool - it was absolutely, autumnally freezing!

This dress didn't fit all that well when I finished it, and I find now that it is way too big.  I was thinking about doing some refashioning but why bother- I don't really like it, the print seems a bit frumpy to me and obscures the seaming details. The only things I like about it are the neckline and sleeves, they have a nice shape. 

I appreciate all the lovely comments on my previous one-hit-wonder. Many commentors said that one did deserve some more wearings, and I agree. It has many of my favorite dress features (sleeveless, bright silk fabric) but I think this one is going in the donation box.


Edited on 7/20/12:  I just realized I had made this pattern previously, actually that version I like better, in a solid color.  Here is that blog post. Scroll down to see the Simplicity dress.


On the drive home that evening I decided I needed a new coat, one that fufilled at least 3 requirements, those being 1) works with formal clothes  2) keeps me warm  3) a neutral color that will go with any outfit.  Based on that resolution I made this black wool coat and in the 2 years since it has been a great wardrobe addition. While it is the height of a very hot summer here in North America perhaps it is time to start planning your own winter coat.  If you click over to that post I have lots of details on coat and lapel construction.

I have had a well-loved and frequently worn garment result from a sudden whim but I think on balance the planned items such as the coat work out better.

We are not done yet with the one-hit-wonders, there are more of these languishing in my wardrobe.  

Today's SunnyGal garden photo, a rose to match my floral dress.  I think the name of this rose is Lipstick (although that could be a different one)  Love this color and it is a good repeat bloomer too!     Happy Summer Sewing, Beth