Simplicity 2444

SEW DOLLY CLACKETT |SIMPLICITY 2444

Simplicity 2444, Sew Dolly Clackett
Simplicity 2444, Sew Dolly Clackett
Simplicity 2444, Sew Dolly Clackett
Simplicity 2444, Sew Dolly Clackett

 

Clockwise from top left: Detail of lining showing polka dot facing at neck edge, pattern matching on bodice back, a hint of polka dot in the pockets, and a closer look at the darts on the bodice front.

Simplicity 2444, Sew Dolly Clackett

 

This dress!!! Excuse my poor manners for not beginning with a gentle good day…but this dress is demanding a Look At Me! intro. Ahem, not just look at me, but wake up, look at me, skip the coffee, and go directly to paradise! Yes, I do love me my new dress. And I made it just for you Roisin…my little way of saying congratulations to you and Nic on your upcoming wedding! Now, for those not in the know, please allow me to fill you in a wee bit. You see, Roisin blogs at Dolly Clackett Blogspot; she’s endlessly cheerful, always modelling her latest make, and forever fond of the fit and flare dress and a great pair of sassy heels. Her good news…she’s engaged and on the verge of being married, and the bigger, if not better news is that her good friend Sarah of Rhinestones and Telephones has masterminded the cat’s meow of wedding gifts…a Sew Dolly Clackett Contest! Yeppers! Sew a dress that will have Roisin swooning, or at least making her a little giddy. Roisin loves fun, flirty fabrics, and she doesn’t shy away from colour. Yeah-uh…my kinda gal! How could I not join the party.

For my version of a Dolly Clackett Dress…I used one of her favourite patterns, Simplicity 2444 {Yes, the same one as my Betty Draper Roses Dress, seen here}. This time round, I followed the pattern pretty closely; the bodice is a match, but I admit to swapping out the skirt’s pleats for gathers. Although it’s nearly impossible to see, there are four nifty darts on the bodice front that give lovely shape to the fit bit of the fit and flare. The fabric…well the fabric had me at hello! It’s a big, beautiful mash-up of birds and flowers. I bought a little extra to be sure to get that bee-yoo-tiful bird on just the right spot on the bodice, and I, rather cleverly if I may say so, matched up the pattern on the bodice back. I also nested a bird on each sleeve. The zipper…gah, another story…let’s just say I wasn’t pleased with that chapter, but I’ll share later. And! I mustn’t forget the name…Roisin names her dresses…brilliant I say! My dress? Please do say hello to the I’m A Bird In Paradise Dress.

Okay, a quick checklist…fit and flare dress, pretty heels, red polished toes, colour, whimsy, polka dots, and a name! Yep! We’s good!

Edit: Fabric is Veracruz White Multi Bird Floral by P & B Boutique!

Ladies and gents! I had a plan! A plan that didn’t pan! Picture it…me, my dress, a great yellow orb in a cloudless blue sky….but, sigh….the weather was having none of that. I didn’t get rained on {just lucky}, or blown away {just barely}, and in the end, it all feels just right!

Dress: Me-Made, Simplicity Pattern 2444
Red Shoes: Fergalicious by Fergie
Bracelets: Me-Made

Linking Up With:
Patti of Not Dead Yet Style for Visible Monday

97 Comments

  • Reply oona balloona April 17, 2014 at 12:30 pm

    THAT BODICE DART. how the hell did you get that posie so very cosy? it's perfect!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 17, 2014 at 12:40 pm

    I KNOW! I'm still kind of shaking my head about that.

  • Reply amy mayen April 17, 2014 at 1:29 pm

    Gaw dang, look at your legs Sue. My legs need to look like that in a dress! Love this one, the fabric is gorgeous! Since you fussy cut everything, you must have lots of odd shaped scraps. Do you keep those for little projects;'or toss them out?

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 17, 2014 at 1:35 pm

    Aw, you got me blushing! It must be the mad skillz of the cameraman because I am not known for my gams, LOL.

    I am so frugal with fabric, and it pains me to waste any of it…but with this wild pattern I knew I had to pay attention to pattern placement. In the end, it worked out not too bad. With the exception of front bodice landing smack in the middle of the yardage. I ended up with leftovers around that piece. I'm thinking I've enough for a handbag lining…or you know how I've used contrasting fabric for under collars…I would have enough for that too.

  • Reply cuckoochanel April 17, 2014 at 1:37 pm

    Sue, this is absolutely adorable. Those colors!! Le sigh… Fits you beautifully.
    Shelley

  • Reply Louise Perry April 17, 2014 at 2:07 pm

    This is very Dolly Clacket but also very you, well done. Gosh I love it. The colours look great on you and the fit and flare…. WOW. Go you.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 17, 2014 at 2:15 pm

    Aw, thanks Shelley! Your comment makes me feel so much warmer than I did in these photos!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 17, 2014 at 2:16 pm

    Yes! Thanks so much Louise! When I put this on, it just feels so me, but I do like to think that Roisin would like it too!

  • Reply Suzanne Carillo Style Files April 17, 2014 at 2:33 pm

    Wow this is so colourful and so Sue! : )

    Your pattern matching is incredible and I love the details of the polkadot fabric on the underside of the collar.

    You have mad sewing skills woman! I am so jealous!

    Those shoes are super cute too. Are the comfy?

    You do look a little chilly in the photos…but hey! no snow ; )

    Have a great Easter.

    bisous
    Suzanne

  • Reply sewingpies April 17, 2014 at 6:06 pm

    Oooooo! I love the fabric choice!! What a lovely dress 🙂

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 17, 2014 at 6:10 pm

    Thank you Jenny!. I'm hungry for pie now!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 17, 2014 at 6:13 pm

    Thank you Suzanne! hmmm…I'm just getting back to wearing heels after decades of what I would describe as wearing comfy shoes. Time will tell with these, as they are new. I'm guessing, they won't be, hahaha…although they were totally fine for the short periods I've worn them so far.

  • Reply Jessica Hurst April 17, 2014 at 6:17 pm

    Wow! Now that's a show stopper!

  • Reply Imogen April 17, 2014 at 6:24 pm

    Wow this dress makes such a statement and I love that. The print is so happy. You look gorgeous in this outfit, it is completely stunning. Just spottedthe profile picture you are using for blogger at the moment. You're so adorable.

  • Reply Connie April 17, 2014 at 9:08 pm

    What just a second here! Polka dot facing? Dang it, Girl! You got it goin' on!

  • Reply sabine April 17, 2014 at 9:08 pm

    The dress could not have another name. It is absolutely gorgeous and you look absolutely fabulous in it. Who watches the weather when she sees such a dress.
    Sabine xxx

  • Reply Carelia Moran April 17, 2014 at 10:04 pm

    Bright and beautiful! You wear it so well Sue. I love the fact that you are wearing it with confidence. The colors are perfect for Spring/Summer and the print is so happy and so you.
    xo
    Carelia
    MySmallWardrobe.com

  • Reply Melanie April 17, 2014 at 11:26 pm

    Incredible dress! In terms of technical detail, the pattern matching around the zipper makes my head spin. Who needs a lighthouse when we've got you, Sue. Brilliance in abundance.

  • Reply Brahdelt April 17, 2014 at 11:57 pm

    I also loooove your new dress! The fabric is fantastic! *^0^*~~~
    Not to mention, I love your shoes…… ^^*~~

  • Reply Judith Hamid April 18, 2014 at 12:10 am

    Hello Sue – I'm quite a new reader of your blog. I've just made 2444 also, but in a much more sedate fabric (Read, Sew, Crochet – my blog). I must say that I think yours is stunning and suits your auburn locks. It's a great pattern isn't it? I've been umm-ing and ah-ing over heels vs. flats – I think heels look better but I'm not sure if I can go through the style over pain trauma – so for me it's heels for photos but flats for general day to day wear. I loved the Betty Roses dress – I would love to know how you converted 2444 for that one. All the best, Judy.

  • Reply Sonia April 18, 2014 at 1:28 am

    So colourful and gorgeous! I love the fabric and I love this dress 😀 Very inspirational!

  • Reply Margo B April 18, 2014 at 1:35 am

    Love!!!! You never disappoint. 2444 is hands down my favorite pattern.

  • Reply josep-maria badia April 18, 2014 at 3:23 am

    What a wonderful dress! I love the pattern and design, so plain and pretty. You look absolutely wonderful with him.

  • Reply Flo April 18, 2014 at 4:02 am

    Cute dress! And the bracelet goes perfectly with it. Another stunner! I have to tell you, I was in Walmart last week and they had some dresses for Easter–I couldn't believe how poorly the zippers were put in and they used metal ones that weren't hidden at all, it looked so tacky. I instantly thought of you and your attention to details.

  • Reply ann wood April 18, 2014 at 4:10 am

    What a perfect dress for Easter! The fit is fabulous and the length is perfect too. Excellent color and I enjoy seeing expert care of inside details. Have a wonderful Easter Sue!

    blue hue wonderland

  • Reply Shybiker April 18, 2014 at 4:31 am

    Gorgeous dress. It makes me smile just looking at it. And you paired it with perfect heels.

  • Reply Val S April 18, 2014 at 5:28 am

    So, so cute! The fabric is amazing – I hope you bought enough to make more things – and I love the polka dot lining. You really respected the fabric with the way you got the right pieces in the right places. Wow! I'm just so impressed! And of course it looks perfect on you, all bright and cheerful!

    Now I'm going to have to go look at Rhinestones and Telephones – that sounds interesting.

  • Reply Glenda April 18, 2014 at 6:21 am

    Yep, you got my attention. Your dress is so fun and playful it made me want to skip rope 🙂

  • Reply pastcaring April 18, 2014 at 6:57 am

    What a glorious dress, Sue! The print and colours are just wonderful, and I love the polka dot facing and pockets. You look fabulous in your sassy heels; giving Marilyn a run for her money, love! xxx

  • Reply Katrina April 18, 2014 at 7:09 am

    That fabric is AMAZING. Very nice!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:50 am

    Thanks Jessica…your Dolly's are ah-mazing too!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:53 am

    Thanks Imogen. Always nice to have you pop up from down under!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:53 am

    gotta have me some polka dots Connie!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:54 am

    Thanks Sabine…your comments are always thoughtful and poetic!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:54 am

    This print wouldn't be for everyone, but it really does make me feel confident and happy!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:56 am

    Thanks Mel! I am a little bummed about the white strip of zip showing, but I was having some technical issues with the 'magical' invisible zippers.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:56 am

    Thank you, thank you!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:02 am

    Hi Judy! Thank you so much for stopping by and saying hello. This is my second time using 2444, and I agree that it's a great pattern. I see using it time and time again. For now, I am wearing heels for days when I know I won't be doing too much walking…I am finding that the round toe heels can be actually fairly comfortable. I will try and do photos and an explanation of the alterations required to make a Betty Draper Roses Dress!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:02 am

    Hey Sonia! Thank you! And it's so nice to hear from you!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:03 am

    Thanks Margo! 2444 does seem to be a favourite, and I am totally understanding why. Great fit for me, and the technical things like sleeves came together with no problems.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:04 am

    Hi Josep! Always such a pleasure to have you stopping by. Thank you for your lovely comment!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:05 am

    Thank you Flo! The exposed zipper is trending right now. I like them on some designs, but I firmly believe that not every dress is suited to having an exposed zipper!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:07 am

    Thanks Ann! One of the details I get hung up on is the length. When I buy clothing, I usually just accept whatever the length is without thinking about it, but with sewing, I can have the 'perfect' length, and it's so hard to figure out sometimes! I like this length too…skims just above the knee…and I will make a note of the measurement for future! Happy Easter Ann! xo

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:08 am

    Thanks Ally! It make me smile to know you're smiling!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:09 am

    Val! Fun profile pic! I have a little bit of fabric left over..not sure exactly what I can do with it though. The fabric ocean is just so big, that I couldn't justify buying enough for another garment. ahaha…

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:09 am

    Now we're even. I'm still dancing from your Happy video! 🙂

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:10 am

    Thanks Curtise! Yes, that little gust of wind, although unexpected, turned out to be fun!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 8:11 am

    Thank you so much Katrina!

  • Reply Rosy April 18, 2014 at 10:01 am

    I had to grab me to my chair to keep from falling pure pleasure to see your wonderful dress! You are wonderfully clever, you are wonderfully funny and you look wonderful in this dress … OMG!!

  • Reply Aya in Couturgatory April 18, 2014 at 4:45 pm

    What a lovely and creative idea, having an online sew-a-thon for a celebration!

    You knocked it out of the park, as always. The darts on the bodice make for the most gorgeous fit, show your awesome figure off, and your beautiful smile honestly lights up the room, even the room I am sitting in, from my laptop!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:57 pm

    Aw, thank you so much Rosy! You are genius with your dress designs!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 18, 2014 at 7:58 pm

    The darts design did have me hesitant at first, but they really DO fit and flatter! Thanks for stopping by Aya!

  • Reply Elsie Davies April 19, 2014 at 12:25 am

    Sue you look amazingly fantastic in this dress! What a beauty! Love it very much!

  • Reply Judith Stansky April 19, 2014 at 3:01 pm

    My soul cries out for this fabric. Please share where you bought it and if it has a name or specific company. I feel a google search coming on. TIA Judi

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 19, 2014 at 3:11 pm

    Oh yes of course! I was remiss in not mentioning it in the post. The fabric is called Veracruz White Multi Bird Floral by P & B Boutique! 100% cotton. Your soul will be happy if you buy!!!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 19, 2014 at 3:11 pm

    Elsie, thanks so much! I'm happy you like it!

  • Reply Jean at www.drossintogold.com April 19, 2014 at 7:06 pm

    Who needs sunshine when you're around? You are dazzling!!! I love the colors and the way the dress suits you to a T. Beautiful. XXOO

  • Reply No fear of fashion April 20, 2014 at 2:00 am

    A perfect dress. Yet again. Being Dutch I have no idea who or what Dolly Clackett is. So I googled it… fat chance.. all that came up was the sewing contest haha.
    Your skills are very good. Those darts are indeed very nifty. The pattern of the rose doesn't change. And I am a sucker for matching up the pattern on sides and back. That to me is quality as you know the manufacturer (in this case you, in my case the brand) had to put in more time, effort and material to realize this…. therefore… quality. You did a wonderful job (also with the bird at the front). These things are not easy. I had a flower dress made by a seamstress who put a very big flower on my large bosom. We changed that afterwards to a more modest flower hahaha.
    Greetje

  • Reply popcosmo April 20, 2014 at 10:17 am

    Stunning!!! The pattern real does say “look at me” and you are absolutely adorable! These patterns that you make always blow my mind and that you have a closet full of colorful frocks – I would just love to have a peek!
    xo ~kim & chloe

  • Reply Patti April 20, 2014 at 3:44 pm

    You're right, this is a look-at-me dress in the most wonderful way, Sue! Love the fabric, the fit and all the details. Thanks for sharing with Visible Monday, xox

  • Reply Lisa April 20, 2014 at 6:20 pm

    Wow! That is definitely a look at me dress. It's like a candy store of color. You look sensational!

  • Reply Trina April 20, 2014 at 8:21 pm

    Right you are, this dress does demand our attention. I'm so drawn to the fit and flare dresses this season, just love the feminine and flirty attitude they present. So wish I had your talent because most of them I've seen only come in sleeveless styles and I prefer a little cap sleeve like this magical one you've just created. the pattern definitely fits the fun and vibrant Sue personality.

  • Reply Cheryl April 20, 2014 at 9:22 pm

    At first I was heartened to hear that you'd had trouble with the zipper, but then I looked at the picture of the zipper that you're not happy with…there's no hope for me. In my wildest dreams I couldn't get a zip to look that good.

  • Reply Mrs C April 21, 2014 at 5:02 am

    Drool worthy dress and the print is simply pretty and dreamy! I saw somebody at the mall a few days back and she was wearing a floral skater dress with boat-neck and puff sleeves.. I immediately saw you 😉 your signature look!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:33 am

    Thanks Mrs. C! Yes, these dresses are becoming a staple, especially with the nice weather coming.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:35 am

    I'm going to draft up a quick post on the zipper situation! Yes, in the end, this zipper is okay, except it's not invisible AT ALL…just some fears with putting it in.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:37 am

    Thanks Trina! You are right…most of the ready to wear dresses are sleeveless! I love a short sleeve too. You, being so fit and slender, can rock the sleeveless look though I'm sure.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:37 am

    I love that…a candy store of colour! I bet I could get some fun inspiration from a candy store!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:37 am

    Perfect for Visible Monday!! Thanks so much for hosting Patti!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:38 am

    Thanks Kim! I could very well be needing a bigger closet with these full skirted dresses all vying for space!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:39 am

    I admit it! I don't know who or what Dolly Clackett is either, LOL!

    Seriously, pattern placement with these large and random seeming prints is very important. So good that your seamstress was able to alter your dress.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 21, 2014 at 8:40 am

    Aw, Jean…such a sweet comment! Thank you bunches! It's always so nice to have you popping by to say hello. xo

  • Reply Cherie James April 21, 2014 at 2:48 pm

    I Love that dress! It looks adorable on you – so fun!!!! cherie at stylenudge.com

  • Reply Jan Graham-McMillen April 22, 2014 at 9:39 am

    You're such a pretty Stichy-Witchy! Impressive pattern matching on the back! Glorious dress all over, and love your little shoes. High heels forever! You've gone to the dark side, Sue … welcome aboard!
    Are you thinking of chopping your curls short?

  • Reply Beata B April 22, 2014 at 11:13 am

    Sue this dress is beautiful! I love the cut, patterns and the colours, it is perfect for your sunny personality 🙂 hugs! Beata xxx

  • Reply Ruth Procter April 22, 2014 at 2:04 pm

    Hi, thanks for your lovely comment on my Sew Dolly Clackett dress – I love yours too! The colours are fantastic and it looks great on you, perfect for Sew Dolly Clackett I think!

  • Reply pao April 23, 2014 at 4:55 am

    That is truly your signature dress, Sue. A perfection reflection of you in colors, style, fit and fabric pattern.

  • Reply Citizen Rosebud April 23, 2014 at 9:00 am

    YOU light up the screen- beautiful woman in a gorgeous dress.

  • Reply TresBienEnsemble April 23, 2014 at 10:11 am

    Your dress is absolutely lovely! I am smitten with the vibrant colors and print in your fabric!

  • Reply lisa thomson April 24, 2014 at 8:56 am

    Ooooooh, gorgeous!! Love that shape and the color? <3.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:14 pm

    Thanks so much Cherie!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:17 pm

    I'm working on it Jan! Thank you for convincing me to give the 5.5 size a chance. Part of my previous problem with heels was buying too large! Re: the hair…your cut is adorable, and I've been sweet on pixie cuts all over the web recently. I used to sport super short hair, and I did love it. But, it would seem a shame to cut off all my curls. So, we'll see how short I actually go.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:18 pm

    Hugs back atcha Beata! Thanks so much for popping by and saying hello.

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:18 pm

    Thanks so much Ruth! The Sew Dolly Clackett has been fun!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:18 pm

    Thank you so much Pao!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:19 pm

    Thank YOU so much Bella! Your posts always brighten up my days!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:19 pm

    Thank you so much, are perhaps I should say, merci beaucoup!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:20 pm

    Thanks so much Lisa!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 24, 2014 at 6:20 pm

    Thanks Alyssa! Honestly, that sounds like I'd be getting the better deal…Arizona, sun, hanging out with you! It would be so much fun!!!!

  • Reply Kezzie April 25, 2014 at 4:49 am

    Sue, your dress is gorgeous!!!! Definitely v Roisin! I was totally stalking the Flickr group pics earlier-such such fun!!! How on earth is she going to choose a winner??????? X

  • Reply dan April 25, 2014 at 10:49 am

    So wonderfully happy! Your dress is beautiful, but on you is gorgeous…

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 26, 2014 at 8:09 am

    Thanks so much Kezzie! I am feeling the same way…however will Roisin choose her winner! They are all so fabulous! It's been such fun following along as everyone made such great makes!

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 26, 2014 at 8:09 am

    Thank you Dan, so very much!

  • Reply señora Allnut April 28, 2014 at 1:12 pm

    fabulousness!! you look gorgeous, your dress is awesome and I'm loving every detail!!
    so lovely!
    besos

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas April 29, 2014 at 7:27 pm

    Ah, Senora! You and me…we both love the colourful canvas, yes?!!

  • Reply Sacramento Amate April 30, 2014 at 12:07 am

    Wonderful dress, anad magic you every time, my dearest Sue.
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

  • Reply Sue @ A Colourful Canvas May 2, 2014 at 10:27 pm

    Thanks so much Sacramento!

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