Passport dress

The conclusion to my Lisette pattern trio is Simplicity 2209, known as the Passport dress.  The bodice is a linen/rayon blend with ricrac trim at the neck and waist, and the skirt is some Ikea cotton.  This was my second attempt at this dress (the first came out a bit dumpy and I haven't blogged it), so I knew that the waist needed to be several sizes bigger than the rest of the dress if it would fit me!  If you have a defined waist, this is a great pattern for you.  The rest of us, however, can make it work.  

You might be wondering about the bodice color (my husband is...), so let me explain that it was inspired by this photo in the Lisette Flickr group.  That seamstress added neck and waist trim, which inspired my ricrac-a-rama.  Ricrac is great stuff and I need to remember to use it more often.  Originally I had bought a different fabric for the skirt, a nubby mustard/brown cotton stripe.  Then I opened up the kids' closet a few days ago, noticed that Ikea heap peeking out, and realized I could do a lot better. This cotton from Ikea is fairly substantial, more so than a typical quilting cotton, so I feel it makes a respectable garment fabric.

Side note: I wore this dress to synagogue this morning and I got two compliments, both of which began with, "Did you make that dress?"  Is this a slight of my sewing skills?  Or a keen eye for something original?  Let's hope for the latter!