Simplicity 2253-- The Jessica McClintock Gala Gown---Pic Heavy!!!

I had such an exciting time sewing this dress!!! I have to admit that at moments I was holding my breath and sewing an hour before I had to go---I've got to stop doing that LOL! This dress was made specifically for a fabulous Gala we attended. But I was pretty happy with the results. I felt just a tad bit of pressure since I was advertising my business in the Gala souvenir journal. As a "walking billboard" I wanted to make sure I was advertising my skills well. I received numerous compliments and some potential clients.

To change things up a bit I did a quickie photo shoot at our downtown river front area. It was alot better than my backyard (my usual locale). Here's my review and some pics.

Simplicity 2253

Pattern Description:

Evening gown by designer Jessica McClintock

Pattern Sizing:
I made a size 12 for a bodice and graded up to 14 for the skirt.

(Front view: Excuse midsection wrinkles---this dress, like most satin one's didn't recover from me being seated)

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Absolutely--it was really pretty!!!

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Fairly so! As previous reviewers reported, the instructions kind of skip all over the place so you want to make sure you are paying attention to the steps.

(Side view: Notice the crazy face--- the wind was overwhelming)

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the overall style of this design and of course the shoulder treatment won me over. The pattern was absolutely great and there wasn't much to dislike. The only thing I didn't like was that the skirt seemed to run small. I made a muslin to gauge the fit and I ended up just adding and additional 1/2" to the circumference for insurance purposes.

Fabric Used:
Some mystery "midnight blue" satin I bought on clearance at Hancock while out of town in Florida a few years back. I bought 5yds for $1 each. It was indeed a steal since the fabric quality is phenomenal. It's similar to a crepe back satin in that one side has sheen and the other is matte, but it doesn't have the texture though. I knew when I laid eyes on it that it would be used for a phenomenal gown.

(Up close so you can see the weaving.)

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
1. I added 2" to the length of the skirt.

2. As mentioned above, I made the bodice in a size 12 and graded to a 14 mid waist and below.

3. Reduced the back length by about an inch. I'm shortwaisted and due to the back panels was able to do this alteration after the dress was assembled. I simply sewed the seam of the 2 upper back panels (between them) a 1/2" deeper (totalling 1") and phased to nothing at the side seams. You know like making a horizontal dart.

4. Increased hip circumference about 1/2" or so.
 

(Here's the accessories. After I found the sequin clutch, I found some shoes that matched. It wasn't my original intent since I wanted something strappier but it worked rather well. I threw in some faux diamond earring and wore my hair in a side chignon and that was that. I didn't want to overshadow the dress.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Maybe. This is a one of a kind dress but I wouldn't mind making the shorter version in a cotton or linen fabric.

(Me and my Hubby! He's one of my biggest supporters and helps keep me sane! I'm sure he grew tired of all of the fitting questions I asked him about this dress. LOL!)


Conclusion:
This indeed is a beautiful gown that yielded beautiful results! It indeed made my night special and I feel like I looked a "Million bucks" although my dress at tops cost me about $16. I love being able to sew!!!!