Step away from the fast fashion treadmill and embrace the enduring elegance of Reformation-inspired style! This tutorial offers a delightful journey into creating your own unique road dress, blending the effortless chic of the brand with the satisfying accomplishment of a DIY project. Imagine yourself gliding down the road in a garment you've crafted with your own two hands, a piece that perfectly reflects your personal style and is far more sustainable than anything you could find in a store. Forget complicated patterns and overwhelming instructions; this project is surprisingly accessible, perfect for both seasoned sewists and enthusiastic beginners.
Reformation's signature breezy silhouettes and flattering cuts are easily achievable with readily available materials and straightforward techniques. We'll guide you through each step, from selecting the perfect fabric to mastering the final hem. Ready to transform your sewing skills and your wardrobe? Let's dive into the step-by-step process and begin creating your own stunning, Reformation-inspired road dress.
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
- Fabric
- Sewing Machine
- Scissors
- Measuring Tape
- Iron
- Zipper
- Hook and Eye
- Elastic
- Always use sharp sewing machine needles and pins to prevent fabric damage and injury. Dull needles can cause skipped stitches and increase the risk of needle breakage.
- Work in a well-lit area with good ventilation to avoid eye strain and potential inhalation of fabric dust or fumes from any fabric treatments used.
- If working with vintage or delicate fabrics, pre-wash and press them to avoid shrinkage or damage during the sewing process. Handle them gently throughout.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cut and Prepare Skirt
- Cut out a half-circle skirt.
- Lay out fabric, ensure it's flat and ready for cutting.
- Cut out the waist of the skirt.
- Cut out the length of the skirt (17 inches recommended).
Cut and Prepare Skirt - Apply a basting stitch to the bottom of the skirt.
Cut and Prepare Skirt Construct Bustier Top
- Cut out bustier pieces (double the amount for shell and lining).
- Sew up the bustier pieces (shell and lining separately).
- Iron the bustiers to flatten seams; make small snips at the middle seams to ease tension.
- Sew the two bustiers together, ensuring correct armhole curves.
Construct Bustier Top Assemble Dress
- Sew the top to the skirt.
Assemble Dress Install Zipper
- Install the zipper (carefully!).
Hem Skirt
- Hem the skirt using the basting stitch as a guide.
Hem Skirt Create and Attach Sleeves
- Cut and sew long sleeves using the slash and spread method.
- Attach sleeves to the dress, aligning seams.
Create and Attach Sleeves Finish Sleeves
- Create sleeve cuffs with elastic.
- Hem the sleeves.
Finish Sleeves Final Touches
- Sew over all edges to prevent fraying, add hook and eye closure, and iron the hem.
Read more: Raglan Sleeve Sewing Tutorial: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use a tutorial for the half-circle skirt calculations.
- Ensure accurate measurements and avoid mistakes in cutting the skirt.
- Under stitch the lining of the bustier to prevent rolling.
- Double-check zipper installation to avoid crooked seams.
- The slash and spread method is used for creating the sleeve pattern.