In this week’s Live Session, which ended up being a surprise recording, I decided to take you through a complete project from start to finish in under an hour!
We used my three-quarter technique to create a very chic, modern, and effortless asymmetrical dress from a single piece of ponte roma fabric.
I showed you how to go from a flat, geometric cut to a fully draped and styled garment on the form, including all the little styling tricks and variations you can use to make this zero-waste design entirely your own.
Demonstration Steps:
Started with a folded piece of ponte roma jersey (123 cm long and 75 cm wide when folded) and explained how to determine the width of your cut based on your own hip measurement.
Made a simple “three-quarter” cut by measuring about 53 cm down from the top fold and 26 cm in from the selvedge edge, and cutting out that rectangle.
Stitched the long side seam, leaving a slit open at the bottom for movement and styling.
Draped the piece on the dress form and pinned the top edge closed along the shoulder to create the asymmetrical neckline and batwing sleeve.
Used my “secret waist stay” technique, attaching an elastic band to the inside corner of the drape to lift the side, create beautiful ruching at the waist, and define the silhouette.
Explored several design variations live on the form, including adding a triangular flare (a godet) into the side slit using the leftover fabric for a completely zero-waste design.
Demonstrated how to create elegant pleats at the neckline for more texture and visual interest.
Refined the final silhouette by adjusting the amount of drape, showing how folding the top shoulder line down further creates a less voluminous, more fitted look.
Finished by discussing creative closure options like adding metal snaps or a zipper along the shoulder for a modern, sporty feel, and showing how a simple cap sleeve could be added.
This session was all about showing you how a very simple, geometric concept can be quickly transformed into a sophisticated and highly versatile garment.
The power is in the drape, and I hope you feel inspired to create this incredibly easy and stylish dress for yourself