I met up with all three of my daughters in Cambridge on Sunday. We don't often get the chance to get together so it was nice but the main purpose was to discuss bridesmaid dress design.
I had taken a bodice toile for my oldest daughter, based on measurements from the past. It didn't work as she's a bit heavier than usual at the moment but I got the opportunity to take a new set of measurements from all three daughters - well actually the first I've ever had from my middle daughter.
Each of my daughters has a slightly different shape.
My oldest, who is the smallest height wise but is still tall, as are we all, describes her body shape as 'strawberry'. Some describe this as inverted triangle or carrot! She has quite a slight body frame and a large bust. This has always been an issue in clothes fitting. She would prefer good coverage at the side of the bust and underarm. So no cutaway armhole for her. She's happy with a sleeve but not 'tee-shirt length' as that is not flattering to her. She suits a crossover neckline and a wide empire type waistband. She doesn't like a jewel neckline.
My middle daughter is a pear, like her mother. She has a very slim waist and larger hips, which make her feel quite self conscious. She also has a tattoo on her arm which she doesn't want her grandmother to see (though the bride has no problems). She also prefers a lower neckline but her main issue was to flatter her slim waistline.
My youngest daughter, who is also the tallest, has a much straighter body shape. She is very slim. She has broad shoulders, a small bust and less waist definition. The two older daughters, who are going to be the bridesmaids to the youngest, are quite clear what styles are good for them and what styles are not. They didn't like some of the suggestions we came up with.
So while designing the dresses for the bridesmaids, we needed to incorporate these views; this appeared to be a group effort but in fact we ended up with a minor variation of a design I sent weeks ago. I've added a sleeve and changed the front neckline from a V to a scoop.
Now I need to investigate what types of fabric would be best and come up with an actual pattern - or two, rather, one for each daughter. First, though, I'll make up blocks for them after testing out their sizes in a toile. Trouble is, they're all planning to lose weight! (So am I of course).
It's difficult to decide the best timing for the things I need to do. I can't afford to leave everything to the last minute but am not sure that there is much point pushing ahead now. Dilemma!
