My 2023 Birthday Dress using Charm Patterns Peggy Bodice + McCalls 8150

19:29
februari 7, 2023

Gifted fabric from Rainbow Fabric Kilburn. Use MOA20 for 20% off.

I always think it’s so lovely to have a special occasion the first time you wear a new memade garment. Be it a lunch in a restaurant, meeting up with friends, a birthday or a wee adventure somewhere. Since I received this beautiful deadstock viscose from Rainbow Fabric Kilburn the other day I thought it would be the perfect pick for a birthday dress!

On my to-sew list I had the new Peggy Bodice that Charm Patterns released on the Patreon recently and also my favourite McCalls 8150 that I used for the skirt of my wedding guest dress last year. So I decided to combine the two. I wasn’t sure about the Peggy Bodice at first since I haven’t sewn many patterns with attached sleeves and under arm gussets, but really liked the gathered detail under the bust. However I love how it turned out. I didn’t make any adjustment besides making the sleeves slightly shorter, as the fabric didn’t allow the full length. But I think it turned out lovely, especially as I love a 3/4 sleeve. For the McCalls 8150 I cut the largest size and then gather around the side seams for a nice ruffled effect and then just cut a little opening in the back for a zipper.

For my birthday we headed out to The Outsider for lunch – they have one of the best steak frites in Edinburgh! – and then went to Nor Loft for champagne and oysters as they have Oyster Happy Hours on Tuesdays. Such a lovely day and I felt so pretty and comfortable in my new dress.