{SW Challenge: Down Under} The " Brazilian Carnival" Dress

"Sewing: A creative mess is better

 than tidy idleness."  

Author Unknown

The Facts

SW Theme: Down Under{ Opposite season: Summer} [SW post]

♫: Seu Jorge. Life on Mars?

Fabric: I don't know for sure, feel like cotton and stretch a little.Its like a very soft t-shirt fabric and it is quite thin and not suitable for the Uk weather. I got it because I liked the feel on the skin. I'm not sure you can see the red are hibiscus flowers.

Pattern: Self drafted 

Year: Contemporary. 

Notions: none. Just slip on and go.

Time to complete: It took 1 hour drafting and 2 hours draping /sewing

First worn: February 2012

Wear again? Yes, will fit perfectly for the Brazilian weather or on holiday to wear as a bikini cover.   

Total Cost: ~£10 { $15 or R$27}

The Pattern. I drafted a basic body block, made a boat neckline and used pleas and tucks to shape close to the body by draping the fabric and shaping it direct on my body.The sleeves were from the Colette Taffy blouse as they are perfect fun & Floaty and great if arms aren't toned. 

Inspiration: Brazilian Carnival.

Carnival (Carnaval in Portuguese) is celebrated all over Brazil, officially for 4 days of wild fun but the reality it takes from 2 weeks or more depending on where you live. Most Brazilian take holidays during this season { summer} and Carnival parties are the peak of the celebrations that sums up our culture. Did you know our festivities dates back as far as 1723. We also enjoy going to the beach and outdoor sports so our wardrobe is full of floaty cooling clothes and color.

Will you make it again?  Yes, not in the UK unless we have another heat wave like the one in October {26C} Did I mention it was cold here... how did I manage to survive a photo i'm not sure.

Did you use any new skills? Draping. Not sure I did if right but I liked the process and result.

What wardrobe gap does this fill?  Unfortunately the UK summer doesn't really call for such thin dress and I feel it can be only used on a beach holiday or at my hometown where temperatures never go lower than 17C. I think my mom will steal these dress for sure!

Photo shoot Camera: Samsung P210

Styled with:H&M belt ,Accessorise London Bracelet and New Look nude peaptoe shoes.

Is there any similar version current on the High street?  Yes, not many!

Rise {Source}

Little Treasures {Source}