28.11.11

plaid tova dress


I've been coveting a Tova dress for ages now. Jenny Gordy's patterns sell out super quickly so when she recently added more to her shop, I snapped one up immediately. There are many versions out there but it's those made in plaid that have captured my attention, it's almost as though Tova was made for it. And seeing as I am having a major 'check' moment, I decided to make my own. My last visit to Fabrics Galore certainly turned up trumps, they had such a good selection of flannel checks that choosing 'the one' took a while.

When it came to it, the flannel was a slippery little eel as it moves about so, and matching up the checks took some thought too. How I wish I knew how to put in the walking foot that my lovely mother swears by, insisting I, too, should have one.


The pattern, which gives an option of a tunic dress or a top, comes printed on sturdy paper in sizes XS-M, or M-XL, and is accompanied by several sheets of thorough, encouraging instructions along with several black and white photographs to reinforce them. It's expensive, too, in the same league as the Merchant and Mills shirts I recently made. However, like the M&M, there is scope for modification and they are both completely seasonless styles, making it a price worthy of paying in my book.

Now that it's finished though, I'm finding the flannel to be quite a clingy fabric but if I wear it with a silky camisole underneath and over jeans rather than something woollen, it might be OK. Nevertheless, the jury's out as to whether it ends up being shortened into the top, which I rather like the idea of anyway, so only time will tell. Besides, there are sure to be several more Tovas along the way.


Wishing you a great week!

22 comments:

  1. I am very impressed. That dress suits you perfectly and looks beautifully made. Bravo to you!

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  2. I think that after a few washes it'll be the most comfy piece of clothing you've ever had for winter!

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  3. It's lovely Kate, very, very wearable and as you say something that will always be in style.
    Just my cup of tea actually.
    Happy week,
    Vivienne x

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  4. I sewed mine up in a plaid flannel about a month ago--- and I have been wearing it STEADY. I love it with a collarless jean shirt underneath it. It's my go-to top so far this fall/winter! Good job matching up those plaids! I wasn't that successful! :)

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  5. Oh this is the piece that promises to be worn all the time... for me the most versatile piece of clothing. The plaid colors are combined fantastically and you look fab in it!

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  6. Love the material and love the dress. Who cares if it clings a little, you have the figure to show of a few curves !!
    Cheers

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  7. I love it! It's just gorgeous and you look great in it. I always wear Uniqlo's heattech under my tunics, they are really cheap and last forever. They also keep you really toasty. Might be better than a slip?

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  8. You truly are a wonder and a whizz in the handmade variety and a jolly good job on those checks - I have murders just trying to line gingham up!

    take care,

    Nina xxxxx

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  9. That looks like something you could live in all winter - I bet the flannel is so cosy.

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  10. It's gorgeous! I am going to have to go a-looking for that pattern, looks quite cosy and comfy. Flannel is a bit of a slippery thing, I usually only sew it for the girls pjs, but have found I need to make up a larger size due to the cling factor.

    I always love to see what you sew!

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  11. Ooh, this is lovely Kate!...It looks so comfortable..I love the style and the check fabric...It's always a treat to see your latest makes,
    Hope you have a great week,
    Susan x

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  12. This is gorgeous Kate, and you look great in it!

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  13. I love the patetrn with the check, and think that it looks fabulous on you.

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  14. I love this, Kate, it's gorgeous. You look lovely wearing it, and it's beautifully made.
    Have a great week.
    Helen x

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  15. Excellent work kate and lovely photo shoot! The plaid is perfect as is the lighting in the shot. I purchased a walking foot about 1.5 years ago and I must say it is the best investment (and I am not a quilter). So wonderful for difficult fabrics.

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  16. The plaid looks really lovely - it is a really great style, too!

    Pomona x

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  17. Great plaid and beautifully made - just right for this autumnal weather.

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  18. Love it! It looks great in the plaid.

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  19. Your Tova looks fantastic. Even if it is a bit clingy the extra layer underneath will be good for keeping you warm. I think I might have to buy this pattern. I've been trying to resist but I keep seeing wonderful versions of it online.

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