Mikaela's Homecoming!

12:00 PM

So, this is Mikaela's final high school homecoming dance.  Final high school homecoming... allow that to sink in.
So for this year's look, she wanted head-to-toe black.  She gave me an idea to springboard from:  black dress with side cutouts.  I knew which pattern I would start off with:  New Look 6211 - SUEDESays.  I cut the size 4 and graded to the size 6 at the waist.  I also used the waistband from this pattern.
For the skirt, I choose a simple a-line design.  We wanted to keep the overall look to a "skater dress" style.  I picked the skirt from New Look 6243. I cut the size 8, because that's the smallest size offered by this pattern.  And it lined up perfectly with the waistband.  I shortened it by 3 inches because I thought an above the knee length looked better.
For the fabric, I used the SUEDESays Rosebud lace black from Jo-Ann.  I underlined the bodice with a stretch satin so that the sheen of the fabric would show through the lace.  The neckline, armholes and cutouts are finished with bias tape.  I also used the the stretch satin for the waistband.  
I didn't underline the skirt.  I wanted the pieces to hang free.  For the stretch satin lining, I used horsehair braid in the hem so that the skirt would have fullness.  For the lace, I left it unhemmed.
You all should know by now that I have an affinity for exposed metal zippers.  And at every given chance, I'll add one!
Mikaela and her date looked adorable!

And also during Spirit Week, there was Toga Day.  Now surely you know I wasn't sending her to school draped in a bedsheet.  
I used Simplicity 3647.  This fabric has a lot of ease, so I cut the XS.  I lengthened by 3 inches, because she was still going to school and I had to make sure she was within dress code.  My fabric is a lightweight broadcloth.  I used a Greek key trim and gold rope to finish the look.  
It was really quick sew and a great alternative to a basic toga.

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62 comments

  1. Your young lady is gorgeous and your sense of style inspires. I'm a fan : )

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  2. It's been more than 50 years since my last high school dance and my Mom made nearly ALL my clothes. I remember every special dress she made me. Your daughter is very lucky AND VERY BEAUTIFUL.

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  3. Anonymous1:45 PM

    You must be so proud. She is beautiful and the dress is perfect.

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  4. Your daughter has a beautiful smile to match those beautiful outfits. Your collaboration and work is impeccable.

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  5. Mikaela was beautiful for her last homecoming event. What a pretty dress and toga.

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  6. Beautiful dresses, both of them. Your daughter is gorgeous!

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  7. The dress is beautiful! I know it's a little sad to think it's the last homecoming dress you'll make for her but there will be so many more opportunities to sew for her...and some even more joyous!

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    1. I know Carolyn! I'm sure it'll never end! Thanks!

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  8. Your daughter is beautiful, and I'm sure she loves her dress!

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  9. The dress is beautiful and so is your daughter.

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  10. I love that she gives you creative freedom in her own homecoming dress, she must really trust you ha! Everything looks great, I can't believe you even did her toga dress for one of the spirit days, I definitely wasn't that committed in high school when it came to spirit week!

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    1. I really wish sometimes I could get them to give me specific details. But yes, they both have always trusted me to sew for them and to shop for them! Thanks Haley!

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  11. Awesome projects! I've been following you for a looooong time. I feel so old! LOL! My how time flies. I'll be around to see some grand daughter projects!!

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    Replies
    1. I know Carol! Isabella is almost 3. It's about time! Thanks!

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  12. awwwwe. I love it. She is a beautiful young woman. The dress was perfect for her!

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  13. I think I got a little weepy! She is stunning. What a great year she'll have ahead of her!

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  14. Beautiful daughter and lovely dress. A cute couple, too.

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  15. She's a senior already? Wow. She' looks great and they are definitely a cute couple.

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    1. Nancy, I see her everyday and I can't believe it! Thanks!

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  16. What a great dress! Absolutely fashionable without being too revealing. I've seen a lot of dresses this weekend, all for homecoming. Each was a little too "mature" for the girls. Kind of scary. Her dress is GREAT!

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    1. I've seen some pretty risque' choices as well! Thanks okie2thfairy!

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  17. Ever so awesome you are Erica. Love love your work, I love exposed zippers also. I need the courage to attempt it though :)

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  18. What a beauty she is, Erica. And I know she was absolutely thrilled with your creation. She looks like a million bucks!

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  19. Your daughter is lovely. Her date is adorable. Her dress looks beautiful.

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  20. Oh my goodness your daughter is growing up and what a beauty she is too! Just like her mum :) The dresses are beautiful!

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  21. what a lovely dress!
    XO
    Jeanne
    http://fashionmusingsdiary.blogspot.fr

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  22. What a gorgeous daughter you have! The homecoming dress suits her perfectly, youthful and special.

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  23. Anonymous2:48 AM

    Beautiful. So refined & chic!

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  24. Anonymous10:07 AM

    Great dress! And I hope she has a chance to wear the toga dress again- it's cute!

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  25. Fabulous!! That homecoming dress is so gorgeous! SO much better than anything RTW! And I love the toga dress! I could actually see that one working for everyday!

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  26. That is a beautiful homecoming dress and the most gorgeous toga party dress ever!! Well done!

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  27. Erica, Mikaela looks beautiful. You did a great job on her dress.

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  28. That is the perfect homecoming dress! I am using that same lace for a leather and lace raglan top that I am making.

    How great to have a toga dress, instead of worrying all day about losing your bed sheet or having something exposed that you don't want everyone to see.

    You have my mom of the year vote!

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  29. She is absolutely, stunningly adorable! That dress is beautiful on her! I had to laugh at your bed sheet comment! Spoken like a true parent!

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  30. Your daughter is gorgeous!!! Great looking dress for homecoming event.

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  31. This is lovely in every way! You are so talented, and your daughter looks amazing! I hope she had a great time.

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    1. She had a great time! Thanks Vanessa!

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  32. Her toga looks great! I also have a Toga Day spirt day coming up and I was wondering how long did it take for you to make this one?

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