Inspiration...Sleeveless Shirtdress

 This week's inspiration is really more about the details.  This shirtdress is sleeveless with some volume which makes it perfect for hot summer days:

This is the Lafayette 148 New York Sleeveless Pin Tucked Shirtdress.  Price tag: $998.00.  Details: approximately 48" long from shoulder to hem, exposed french seams, spread collar, button front, contrast buttons, sleeveless, full length, a-line silhouette, detachable slip included.  Model is 5'10". Dress can be seen at the Neiman Marcus website.

Interesting details on this dress is the exposed french seams and the tucks.  Okay, for some reason the designer called this pintuck but I could not see pintucks just tucks.  Here is a definition of tucks and pintucks:

   A tuck is a fold that has been stitched into place.  A very thin fold is referred to as a pintuck.  

Pintuck as the name implies is very thin.  I generally would use a specialty foot and twin needle for a pintuck where I do not for a tuck. 

So, what do you think about the exposed french seam?  This is something that I have never considered before.  I love the look of a french seams but it has always been an inside finishing technique.  I like the way it gives definition to the waist.  No real need for a belt here.  

As far as a pattern, grab your favorite fitted shirtdress pattern. Now the fun begins.  If the pattern does not already have a yoke and a waist, you will need to create these details by slashing the pattern at the appropriate location.  Decide what size you want your tucks.  This detail travels into the skirt in the form of pleats.  Personally, I would tuck the fabric and then cut out the bodice.  Make the pattern changes to the front and back - yokes, tucks, and pleats.  Remember the exposed french seam so make sure those seam allowances are at the 5/8-inch size.  Also, the pocket on the dress has been stitched on outside of the dress.

Hope you have found some inspiration today.

Happy Stitching!