Barbie models her new dress!

Summer 2018 was really fabulous, lots of sun, sun, and then more sun! There were plenty of opportunities for day trips, so Barbie took advantage of the sunny days and had a nice little day out in Dunmore East in Waterford. Her wardrobe is already filled with pretty vintage Barbie clothes but there is always an opportunity for another new dress.

What to wear when visiting this pretty coastal village? I think a chic little 1950s sun dress is perfect. This cotton tartan patterned fabric caught my eye and I thought the colour combinations were so nice that it would make a really retro 1950s style summer dress. So I had some fun with this design, I looked at some old movies for inspiration and consulted my library for some original 1950s designs. I did a few quick sketches, drafted up a new pattern and started to sew.

The Dress

I designed a fitted bodice with a full skirt, which is just so chic for vintage Barbie. The bodice is snug and fully lined with a boatneck cut, it is very flattering, and retro too. I’ve added in tiny bows on the shoulders, if you’ve read this blog before, you’ll know I love tiny bows!!

I wanted to emphasise the tiny waist so I decided on a gathered full skirt with a belt and gold belt buckle, I’ve also added a tiny bias cut patch pocket on the skirt because pockets on skirts are handy, right? A girl needs somewhere for her lipstick.

The Details

Here’s the bodice with it’s nipped in waist in a bit more detail…

And that useful pocket…I cut it on the bias so it would contrast nicely with the pattern on the skirt and would be a pretty detail too.

I’ve been working on some new items for my Etsy shop and I’ve added them over the last couple of weeks, there’s lots more to come, but this Barbie Dress is available today! Shop my Barbie Clothes Collection here!

 

Till next time,

x

 

 

© 2018 Dinah’s Dolls