A Snuggly Giselle

It is Frocktober this month on The Monthly Stitch, and as it is well and truly Autumn up here in the northern hemisphere I thought I'd make a Snuggly Giselle.  This is also a bargain basement Giselle, as I have had the paisley fabric for so long I don't actually remember buying it (I'm thinking sometime in the 1980's) and the turquoise fabric I got at the local AgeUK shop for the pricely sum of £1.

Here is a close up of the contrast midriff.  I love the shaping of the midriff, it makes me look like I actually have a waist.  I cut a straight size L, this the only change I made being adding 2cm to the back bodice and the same to the bottom of the upper bodice.

I wanted my contrast fabric to be on show on more than just the midriff and sleeve cuffs, so I attached the bias binding at the neckline on the outside rather than inside.

This dress is very twirly

The fabric I used is maybe a little heavy for the pattern, it gives a bit too much bulk at the gathers.  Having said that I already have plans for a babycord and brushed cotton version, which I may try pleats, rather than gathers at the waist.  I wanted to wear the dress out on Thursday evening, so I haven't put the elastic at the back waist yet and looking at the pictures I took of the bow I think it needs the elastic.  As a design feature I do like the back ties and it does cinch in the waist, but having a knot at the middle of my back is not always comfortable.  I'm not sure what I could be to keep the look, but loose the knot.

I don't see the Maxi version in my future, it just isn't my thing.  But I can envisage many other lovely knee length Giselles to come.  A contract midriff is great for featuring a lovely fat quarter of fabric.