How To Make Your Own
Prom Dress
When it comes to formal
occasions like the prom, no girl wants to be wearing the same
thing as someone else. With limited options when it
comes to dress shopping, an alternative to the norm is
creating your own dress, and usually for less! From
bodice to sash, sewing your own prom dress can be extremely
rewarding for any prom-goer.
Step one: Choose a
pattern. Although the number of stores that carry
fabrics and sewing patterns has diminished over the past few
years, you can still find plenty of places that sell them,
such as Jo-Ann Fabrics. Strapless? Halter? Tea-length?
With numerous companies making patterns, you are bound to find
one that satisfies your taste. McCall’s, Vogue, and
Simplicity are just a few major brands offering a wide
selection of patterns. These patterns have every detail
you will need to complete your dress, including what kinds of
fabrics you will need as well as how much, if you need a
zipper or hook and eyes or boning for a bodice, etc.
Step two: After
obtaining your correct measurements using measuring tape, you
can figure out how much fabric you need by comparing them to
the sizes listed on the pattern. It is a good idea to
figure out exactly what you will want your completed outfit to
look like, including gloves, shalls, hair details, shoes, and
extra “costume” pieces such as sashes, bows, boas, or
jewels. If you know you will want to add detailing
beyond what the pattern has, it may be a good idea to buy
extra fabric or tulle to save you time and money and possibly
frustration in the case it is sold out when you need it later.
Obviously, nicer fabrics
will be more expensive than cheaper fabrics, but it is always
smart to shop the sale racks (just like shopping at any other
store) for discounted fabrics. Always remember to buy
thread that matches the fabric you are working with.
Step three:
Complete the dress. Paying extra special attention to
the pattern directions, finish cutting and sewing your dress.
Once you have the finished product, you can begin to make it
your own. Be creative! Tie a silk belt around the
waist, sew a boa around top edge, embroider a flower or star
design at the bottom or up the side of the skirt. Make
it what you want! Most importantly, don’t worry about it
being duplicated. This is your dress now!