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Monday, March 05, 2012

The 'Tree of Life' Dress




I was hoping to take some awesome pictures this week next to an old, twisted tree... but I was never able to find the time (or the right tree)!  Work has been crazy busy, and dance is ramping up because of St. Patrick's Day.  And is it just me, or did everyone have babies in February and March? I have so many birthday celebrations going on right now!  But it's ok, because it's been fun, and overall, it's just a picture. So dear readers, I hope you enjoy my backyard some more.  On to the dress details!


The Facts
Fabric: 3.5 yards Swirl Cotton Fabric $17 from Fabric.com
Pattern: Colette Peony, 2nd time making $0
Year: 2011
Notions:  1 22” zipper $2, 1 button from stash
Time to Complete: Approx. 6 hours
First worn: For pictures
Wear again: Yup
Total Price: $19
Being an Irish and Scottish dancer, I frequently attend events celebrating both cultures.  One of the theme’s that I love that is constantly reflected in Irish art and jewelry is the Tree of Life.  When looking for inspiration for this challenge, I stumbled across Gustav Klimt’s painting of the same name.  As soon as I found it I gave up the other artwork searches and began brainstorming for fabric and patterns.


I was really lucky in finding a fabric with a swirl print that really reminded me of the original piece.  I decided to do Colette’s Peony pattern, as I think it is a nice blank canvas dress, but that still has some pretty design characteristics to it.

A close-up of the print
I had hoped the dress would be a faster project as I’ve already made it, but it still took about 6 hours.  I made version 1 with the shorter sleeves but added in the pockets from version 2.  This time I decided to actually make the belt to go along with it.
I really like how it turned out.  The design is pretty but fairly simple, but I think it reflects the original inspiration piece.  I’ll definitely wear it again!  It would fit into my work wardrobe, and that print is subtle enough that it doesn’t feel costume-y.
What I Watched:
Scrubs Season 1 (first 6 episodes)

4 comments:

  1. New reader here, I think I stumbled across one of your recipes on Pinterest :)
    The button on the back is my FAVORITE!

    ReplyDelete
  2. That dress looks great on you! I love the muted colour! You're right it is similar to Klimt's Tree of Life.

    ReplyDelete
  3. The dress is great on you! I like how the waist nips in, it shows what a tiny waist you have. Must be all the dancing!

    ReplyDelete

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