Column Dress – Paris

A column dress ma chérie made in fabric from the city that celebrates couture, fine sewing, craftsmanship and a wonderful crème brûlée!  Paris, I named this dress after my shopping experience there, accompanied by my sister, we found a tiny fabric boutique, with an eclectic array of textiles, fine lace, buttons, haberdashery galore; my idea of heaven.

I spotted this fabric hiding in the corner of the shop, the last few metres remaining. She was my kind of fabric: textured graphic printed weave, a multitude of varying hues that complemented each other, the touch so soft, but also so sheer - the finished garment is lined.

As always I am thinking about the wearer of my garments, where is she going, how is she feeling today, what will this dress say about her?  Draping the fabric on the mannequin, I realised the abstract artistry needed to be worn and shown in its entirety, art in motion, the wearer stands tall, the dress does the talking.  The ideal shaping a column dress, a garment that as you move, more of the artistry reveals itself, comfort is in the silhouette and fit, the illusion of a waistline without restriction, that's the beauty of a column semi-fitted dress.

The banded hemline adds to the overall shape, drawing the eye up and down as it tapers. The collar detail provided me with the opportunity to play with the texture of the fabric. I added shirring, gathered the neckline creating a raised knobbly effect another dynamic for framing the face as the collard stands slightly proud.  Long drop sleeves have their own detailing a slight overlay.

There is however a part of this dress that I cannot take credit for. It’s the mustard round detail that sits below the illusionary waistline, take a look, do you see a large mustard coloured button?  The artist’s abstract elements within the drawing of this dress create a 3-D element I did not plan for, but what a perfect finishing touch.

I consider Paris to be your go-to dress for years to come, its the dress you can always rely on, from the planned event to the last minute 'what am I going to wear'- enjoy!.

Size: 10/12