I’m feeling very feminine and bohemian today….just floating about in this gorgeous rayon floral. A tiered and gathered dress would not normally be a style that I would be drawn to but I took a risk here and went for it. I’m glad I did, cuz I’m kinda loving it. I love to dress feminine and this style is most certainly that…but is it classic or vintage? Or is it classic 70’s? I feel like vintage refers more to pieces of clothing that were actually made and worn years ago and that classic is more about styles that never really go out of style and remain staples in a modern woman’s wardrobe.
I set out to learn what the difference is and…according to this article by The Glamorous Housewife here is what makes an outfit classic…
So what makes an outfit “classic”, apart from the clothing being a style that has stood the test of time? In order for a ensemble to be classic, it need to have these five aspects:
Discretion: The outfit doesn’t show off too much skin; it leaves something to the imagination
Flattering: It accentuates the wearer’s best aspects and hides the problem areas
Effortless: The person wears the outfit, the outfit doesn’t wear the person.
Tailored: This can also be called the “Goldilocks rule”; the clothing cant be too tight, nor too loose. It must fit just right.
Cultivated: The outfit must be accessorized in a way that compliments and doesn’t detract from the wearer.
I don’t know that these are hard and fast rules but it was interesting to ponder for five minutes…and no more. I still don’t know where this dress fits but I feel like it fits who I am at the moment and makes me feel great.
So let’s talk fabric and pattern….the fabric is a 100% rayon twill and I absolutely love the print! I washed it like I usually do…but was a little disappointed that the navy faded slightly. Not much… but it did. It’s fine but I like my colors sharp. oh well….
The pattern is B5878. It has just recently gone into the dreaded land of OOP(out-of -print). So snap one up while you can. I’m a huge fan. Here’s the pattern description as per the envelope…Pullover dress has self-lined yokes, very loose-fitting, mock-wrap, surplice bodice, elasticized (seamed) waist, and narrow hem.
For anyone who is still working on their sewing skills, I recommend this one. No zipper, no buttons, and the sleeves, though set-in are very forgiving due to the gathers at the shoulders!
Yes… there is a lot of gathering to do but by choosing a fabric with a busy print….mistakes and imperfections would be hard to spot!
The only thing this pattern is missing is pockets! I wish now that I had put them in…shame on my lazy self!!
Yes, I’m still roaming around without tights….I’m avoiding those things as long as I can….
You wear it oh so well…..gorgeous as always!
Thanks Rianna! It’s a fun dress to wear.
Cute. And rayon twill, what a treasure to find that.
Rayon in a great print is always a good find 😉 thanks Julie!
“I don’t know that these are hard and fast rules but it was interesting to ponder for five minutes…and no more. I still don’t know where this dress fits but I feel like it fits who I am at the moment and makes me feel great.”
BEST THING I’VE READ TODAY.
you look a bohemian beauty!
Awww thanks Marci!
I really like those sleeves!
Thanks Morgan. I really like the too!
Love the Marilyn Monroe pic! Your new creation-YOU wear it well!
Haha! Thank you Eileen.
Such a beautiful dress. I love the print and you look fabulous in this dress.
Thank you Tomasa. Rayon is always a great choice IMHO.
Looking great!
I made a shirt out of this fabric and I’ve already worn it many times. So comfortable.
Thanks Jen! We’re twinsies! Did you buy the same color? And did you find that it faded slightly?
Yes, same colour (although the rich and spicy orange was very tempting) and mine faded too. I still wear it though because it’s so comfortable.
The last photo is a knock-out. Great job!
Lol! Thanks to a gust of wind… Thank you Carmen!
That is a really pretty feminine dress whether it is 70’s or classic!
Thank you Andrea, I feel really great in it.
I ditto Andrea’s comment. This dress is so feminine and comfy looking. You look lovely in your “happy” dress. 🙂
Thank you Almeda!
two years ago you posted a picture of tailor chalk in a little red case. You said it did sharp lines. Can you tell me where to purchase? I’ve looked around with no success. Thanks!
Hi Sherri! I bought mine at Fabricville, it really does work great. Here’s the link… marking tool
Perfect style … yes effortless
Awww thanks Sasha!
This is a romantic style. Classic style is more fitted and tailored – think shirtdresses, a-line skirts and so on. Ruffles are always feminine and romantic. Well, those are the rules, in any case! But it is how you feel and what you like to wear that counts. It’s a lovely dress.
I think you’re right! We have to feel great in what we wear regardless of the “rules”
Margot, I’ve been following your blog for a while but haven’t commented on anything until now. You’ve been a great source of inspiration though – so many beautiful things!
I just thought UK readers might like to know that exactly the same fabric is available from a UK ebay seller – just search patterned viscose fabric and it’ll be in the list somewhere. It’s lovely stuff to wear.
Thank you Sian! Thanks for sharing your source, it is a really lovely fabric to wear.
Whether vintage or classic, it is a lovely dress!!! Lovely fabric and the style looks great on you!
Thank you Linda!
This is a beautiful dress Margo! It really suits you. I’m pretty sure I just bought this fabric today – we obviously have great taste! 😉
Eeek! Twinsies again! We do share the same taste!!!
That’s a beautiful dress and you rock it. From the pattern envelope, I would never have pick up this pattern, but having seen your realisation, now I want it.
The envelope doesn’t always offer much inspiration so we have to try our own thing. Sometimes it works out for me…sometimes it doesn’t… thanks Caroline!!
Ok I gotta say, I’ve loved so many things you’ve made but this one takes the cake for being my very favorite. I’m in love with everything about this dress. The print, the quarter length sleeves, the tiered gathered skirt, the bohemian feel, I love it all. Nice work!