Challenge Five - Contestant 16
For this challenge, I tried to veer away from bodysuits and decided to make a 2 piece dress with leggings. I used to think that stretch fabrics are limited to knits but when I did my research I found out that even woven fabrics can be stretchable as well. For my design inspiration, I saw a couple of collections on the runway with exaggerated sleeves or on the shoulder.
For the top, I like how stretch fabrics hugs the body without any need of darts. So, I used stretch tulle that served as a mesh giving an almost nude illusion. I strategically placed embellishments to cover certain private parts. One more thing about stretch woven fabrics that I discover is that it produces more ruffles when burned for detailing. I added ruffles on the side of the sleeves by book leafing. For the skirt, I used stretch charmeuse and draped into a skirt. I also embellished it with flowers and beads.
I also added a stretch knit leggings with gold filaments to give the look a little sparkle.
The skirt is lined with a stretch mesh to allow movement.
The whole ensemble can be mix match into 2 looks. The mesh sleeves can be rolled up and can be paired with gold leggings. The second look is just plainly removing the leggings and leaving the top and skirt for a more feminine look.
As a bonus I made a “heeless” shoes and a clutch bag as accessories. And in the spirit of couture, everything is hand stitch.
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