In keeping with the theme of some of the more "retro" sewing I've done, here's a little look at the glitzy world of ballroom gowns.
I've mentioned before that my husband and I dance. In fact, that's how we met. Anyway, we used to do it a lot more before we had kids. We took several lesson a week. Did some shows and a little teaching. And even competed once.
But to do a show right, you need the right look. And it's showy for sure. Lots of rhinestones.
And the dresses cost a ton. Thousands of dollars. Not exactly in the budget...but I'm always up for a sewing challenge.
So, I set out to learn about the construction of such dresses. It's not easy because they're all stretch material and you really have to consider how they move etc. And don't get me started on the rhinestones. There are literally thousands of them on there. And each one put on individually by hand.
That's why I'm in awe of Dancing with the Stars (No, I don't watch it anymore cause really who has 4 hours a week to dedicate to one show?). They churn those costumes out so quickly and they are NOT easy.
Anyway, these two gowns are 2 of the ballroom ones I've made. Maybe someday I'll show you the latin ones (a bit racier). They're both my own design adapted from parts of patterns here and there.
The blue one I actually won a contest from the big name in couture ballroom - Chrisanne. I painted the design onto the dress with fabric paint. Considering it's not really intended to be stretchy, it's held up remarkably well.
Here's an action shot of me actually dancing the gown. I wish I had more good ones (this is scanned and I seriously need Photoshop to revamp it a bit) to show you but really most of them pre-dated good digital cameras. Just sitting on the dressform doesn't really show you how much volume and movement they have .
Well, folks I think I have to sign off until after Market...I promise to come back with my creative juices all revved up! Hopefully I'll take some of that inspiration and translate it to actual projects...
Ciao.
JT
This makes me miss dancing SO MUCH!
I did ballet for 10 years as well as jazz and modern.
I used to take ballroom and swing classes twice a week and go to dances and minor competitions with an old boyfriend years ago.
I keep trying to get my husband into it but we're just so busy these days. Maybe someday I'll dance again.
Posted by: Erin Compton | May 09, 2009 at 02:45 AM
wow! those dresses are incredible. the more i sew, the more i realize how difficult it is to make clothing. i cannot imagine the number of hours that were put into making these beautiful pieces.
Posted by: Nichole | May 09, 2009 at 08:18 AM
You are a dancing with the stars girl? OMG!!! That is awesome. I would love, love, love to learn to do that!
The dresses are wonderful....I am totally impressed!
Posted by: Stacey | May 09, 2009 at 09:14 AM
That is so fun to see. I love the blue dress and would love to see more!
Posted by: Allie | May 09, 2009 at 05:33 PM
Pretty!! Have fun at Market - I know you are going to do great :)
Posted by: Amy @ parkcitygirl | May 10, 2009 at 12:25 AM
Wow! You did a great job. You always amaze me with your sewing talents. I'm envious.
Posted by: Christina | May 11, 2009 at 09:03 AM
wow! it amazing how gorgeous that dress is. I'm officially jealous of your sewing skills.
Posted by: umma | May 12, 2009 at 07:07 AM
I haven't stopped by for a bit and my what a surprise to see this talent you have for dressmaking and dancing. You are amazing!! That blue dress is absolutely beautiful and looks lovely on you!!
Posted by: sandi a. | May 12, 2009 at 01:57 PM
Those are beautiful! Have fun at Market, I can't wait to hear all about it and see how everyone responds to your fabric!
Posted by: Sarah | May 14, 2009 at 07:44 AM
Just stopping by to say hi and tell you again how glad I am we met. Keep me posted on your decision!
Posted by: Mary Beth (true up stringer) | May 17, 2009 at 08:53 PM
cool pix Jess! It was fun meeting in person at market! DO KEEP US POSTED ON the really BIG news, okay? :):)
Posted by: Scott at BlueNickelStudios | May 18, 2009 at 11:16 PM
Waiting patiently for you to return from Market so we can see your fabric line! Hope you did well!!
Posted by: sandi a. | May 19, 2009 at 12:42 AM
Oh my word, Jona. I am just even more in awe of you now.
Posted by: Mary | May 19, 2009 at 10:01 AM
Seriously, what DON"T you do?
Have you tried Picnik? It's free and easier to work that photoshop. I live by it.
Cheers,
Tracey
Posted by: Paper Dolls for Boys | May 20, 2009 at 12:48 AM
I like the pink ballroom gown. If I'm not mistaken, I saw the same gown wearing by Aling Dionisia mother of Manny Paquiao in one ballroom dance contest.
-mikee
Posted by: wholesale hama | October 25, 2009 at 11:08 PM
Firt off thanks for this post.I love it. I like the blue ballroom gown.
Posted by: connie | August 24, 2010 at 07:00 PM
I wish I could make dresses like this, but I don't have the skills (yet)Guess I better stick to the corsages that I'm good at for now.
www.handmadebyclairebear.com
Posted by: Claire Jervis | April 15, 2011 at 08:12 AM