Sleeves or No?
I’m totally over-complicating things with my birthday dress. I can’t help but think that my fabric would look just stunning done up in Vogue 1353:
I love the neckline pleats and full skirt on this pattern, and I’ve been wanting to make it for a while now. The problem, of course, is that it’s sleeveless, and I’m not sure what to do about that.
One thought was to add sleeves. I’ve found a few resources that tell me how to do so, and I could try it out on my muslin. Leaving aside the potential extreme frustration of that plan, I’m not even sure if this dress would work with a short (but not cap) sleeve. And if I do add sleeves, how does that work with the lining? I’m pretty sure all of my dresses with sleeves are unlined, but I like the neat finish of a lined dress.
I could also leave it sleeveless, but I’m worried that I won’t wear it as often if I do. As I mentioned before, I get self-conscious about sweating when I wear sleeveless dresses, and that’s especially true on the dance floor. I also read some reviews that said the straps and neckline run wide on this pattern, which could be a problem with my sloping shoulders.
Any suggestions? Am I crazy to still be considering this pattern?
Hello! I’ve been lurking on your blog for a while and have to say that I absolutely love the fabric you picked and think it would work great as a sleeveless dress.
I think it’s funny that you want to wear tops/dresses with sleeves because you worry about sweating – I’m the opposite and never wear things with sleeves (unless they’re loose fitting) in fear of getting those dreaded sweat marks when I’m giving it all on the dance floor.
Thanks so much, Siri! I really want this to be a special dress.
The whole sleeveless thing *is* completely nonsensical–even I don’t get it! I see all sorts of women rocking super cute sleeveless dresses on the dance floor, and I’m totally envious. But something about a lack of fabric under my arms makes me notice odor more. Maybe it’s all in my head!
Have you decided yet? I’ve just bought this pattern and also vogue 8889 to make a little something as a coverup due to it being sleeveless. 😀
I have! I decided to leave it sleeveless because I was worried it wouldn’t be as cute with them. I’ll wear it with a cardigan most of the time, but I’ll definitely go without when dancing. Can’t wait to see how yours turns out!
I’m going to try and find some fabric to make a muslin for the bodice – hopefully this afty!
Good luck with yours, love the orange fabric you’ve chosen 😃
Good move–when I made a muslin, the darts were pointing at my high bust. They’re now sitting where they should 🙂
Lol! If mine end up there I might adjust my bra instead!
I’ve found some spotty black/white cotton sateen and some plain black. Hoping it will be a wearable muslin 😄