Vogue 8409 - Denin pleated bodice dress

Here's my latest wardrobe addition. Everyone needs a denim dress, right? Or maybe that was true in the 90's... Anyway, I really like the outcome! I decided not to line it since the fabric is thick and sometimes denim stretches out. This way I can wash it and the fabric will tighten up. Here's a close-up of the front:

The bodice front is cut on the bias so the pleats fold really nicely. It's just a tad low, hence the cami. I think these sleeves are really cute:

I apologize for the lighting. These pictures were taken about 10 AM on a slightly overcast day. I thought morning light was suppose to be really great.

Here's a back close-up so you can see what's happening in the design. Instead of darts, the back has little tucks. I used an invisible zipper for the closing.

On the inside, I made use of bias tape to finish any exposed edges. I ran out of denim during cut out so I had to use some lining fabric for the inside inset. Since it was thinner then the bodice fabric, I added interfacing. This piece was slipstitched all the way around.

On the side seams I used french seams, and the armholes were covered with more bias tape.

Here's the inside slit. I curved the edges so I could use even more bias tape but I think I'm going to do this from now on for garments with slits. The corners don't fall forward and there is no need to tack them down.

Okay, so why denim? Is it because I homeschool and all homeschooling mamas are required to run around it denim jumpers? (Just kidding!) No, I actually wanted a dress to match these shoes. I know they're a little different, but I love them.

Up next is Vogue 8536, the cross-over front top with long sleeves.