#simplicity2215

I spent two months this summer in India, sourcing fabrics and making clothes. India has to be one the most inspiring places for designers. The colours and textures of everyday life there are bright and bold. From brightly painted trucks to colourful saris and pink houses, colour is everywhere. It was really apparent to me how little colour people wear in Ireland when I arrived home. So I’m slowly introducing a bit more colour to my wardrobe but I’m not quite at bright pink sari yet.

The fabric shops were like none I’ve ever seen before. They stocked every colour and fabric type under the sun. A lot of the fabrics I bought were sourced in a shop called Purvi in Mumbai. Everything they sell is handwoven and beautiful quality. This is me a bit overwhelmed by the choice…

Ikat is my new fabric obsession.  Ikat is a fabric that is made by dying the strands of yarn before they are woven. Each strand is dyed in a manner similar to tie dye and then woven together to create patterns. To be honest I don’t totally understand the process but the result is really great!

This dress is made in a grey cotton Ikat. The pattern is simplicity 2215 which is part of a range that Cythia Rowley did for Simplicity. It’s a great pattern and there are lovely details such as the irregular pleats in the skirt. It also has pockets! I can’t get enough of dresses with pockets.

A tip for any dressmakers though, the sizing is large and I ended up having to take in the bodice quite a bit to make it work. I recommend making a toile, even though I’m generally far too lazy for that. Or at least take a good look at the finished garment measurements and adjust accordingly.

Great dress though, perfect for summer in Mumbai and I’m hoping it works with layers for winter because I’m not quite ready to put it away. Expect lots more Ikat clothing from me in future.

Tigger photobombed a few of  these shots, but he managed to make me look a little less awkward so I think he knew what he was doing :D

Pattern: Simplicity 2215