Saturday, November 2, 2013

A Happy Belated Halloween to You!


There was no time to make something new for Halloween this year.  Well, I suppose there was, but my Gala Project exhausted any sewing energy I may have had in the last few days!  And besides, there are plenty of costumes in my closet that could use the attention.


I Love Lucy is one of my favorite television shows, and who doesn’t love Lucille Ball?!  Supremely talented, hysterically funny, and incredibly gorgeous. 


A few years ago, I decided I needed an I Love Lucy costume.  But which dress to choose?!  Blue polka dots seemed the most iconic (there are a few different versions that were worn on the show) so that was where I started.    I stopped by Britex during their annual in-store sale, which happens in October, and is the perfect excuse to go Halloween fabric shopping; I came home with some polka-dot yardage along with some white eyelet.


Vogue 8433 is a vintage pattern from the 1950s, which seemed incredibly appropriate.  There was not quite enough fabric to cut the pattern out, so I improvised the skirt and pleated in the excess until it fit the bodice waist.  And, of course, it needed a matching belt and buckle!


But something was still missing.


An apron seemed like the perfect addition.  I started with Butterick 6567, added a ruffle to the bottom edge, and messed about with some rick-rack trim.  


The pattern is fabulous!  I have made quite a few versions – they make fabulous gifts and are the perfect excuse to use adorable quilting cottons.


And Mr. Valentino had to be included.  He loves all the attention/treats he receives when he is dressed up!  For his jacket, I started with Simplicity 3939 for a bit of help with armhole placement, etc.  It might look familiar because I also used it for his Mad Hatter costume last year.  The tie and collar were easy enough – just a quick neck measurement was needed along with some cotton scraps.


Another Halloween, another excuse to wear a silly costume! 

Lucy
Dress:  Made by me, Vogue 8433
Apron:  Made by me, Butterick 6567
Petticoat:  Made by me
Earrings:  Thrifted
Necklace:  Banana Republic
Shoes:  Franco Sarto

Ricky
Jacket:  Made by me, Simplicity 3939 (with significant alterations)
Collar and Tie:  Made by me

5 comments:

  1. And I, dear gal, absolutely love your awesome costume! You make for a really, really wonderful Lucy! Fabulous styling - you couldn't look any cuter or more the part!

    ♥ Jessica

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  2. You made me smile in your Lucy costume especially with cute little Valentino in your arms. I admire your sewing skill and your design capabilities. The accent color you chose for your symphony dress is lovely.

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  3. You make such a good Lucy! The costume is perfect, and even more so with Ricky!

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