Handmade in Melbourne book

I am proud to announce that I am one of the 200 artisans chosen for the 2009 edition of Handmade in Melbourne.

Without trying to sound like a speech acceptance from an Awards show, I would like to thank the three people that helped me with my submission, Juanita for the words, Nicole for the photo and one of my model's, Beth, who also did her own styling.

To be in the same book as designers & artisans that I look up to and admire is a real honour. I am not going to make a list as there are too many and I would be disappointed if I left anyone out.

Please check out the Handmade in Melbourne website, where you can also pick up your own copy of the book.

Because the simple frocks in life are often the best...

The reason this blog post bears this title, is because I was pleasantly surprised that my client for this garment, Juanita chose to wear the dress with minimal jewellery and minimal tizz. The result? Perfect for the occasion it was made for!

Juanita supplied the shot blue/purple 100% pure silk for this dress. Upon advice from the retailer she bought it from, I did not pre-shrink the fabric and I did not use any water or steam during the construction and pressing process.

I lined the bodice in blue 100% Viscose for comfort and the skirt in a matching bemsilk lining.

After alot of consideration and discussions with other dressmakers, I decided not to bone the bodice as I wanted to avoid that bridesmaid/1980's party frock look. The bodice is fused in a medium weight iron on (I can hear some of you gasp at that) interfacing and the invisible zip is in the centre back.

We agreed on a rounded 'collar' around the top of the dress and decided against a matching belt.

The Paper Plane sterling silver necklace is by Australian jewellery designer and maker, Victoria Mason. Please check out her site, her work is delightful.