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Penny Inspiration
Before diving into a new project, I love to take some time to gather inspiration. Like many, I am a huge fan of the mood board. Seeing all of my ideas in one place helps me to identify patterns and trends. While gathering photos for a Penny dress mood board, I couldn’t help but notice five clear categories my inspiration could be filed under. So instead of making one big inspirational collage, I made five!
I love how a simple fabric choice can completely change the look of a dress. In this post, I share five ideas for creating a classic and modern Penny dress.
Bright
Penny’s classic design would look modern in a bold, bright color. Whether you choose a solid or a subtle print, bright colors will freshen up this vintage-inspired look.
White
Nothing says summer like a chic, white dress. Try using a textural fabric like lace, eyelet, swiss dot, or linen.
Prints
Don’t be afraid of going bold. The simple lines of a shirtdress pair perfectly with big bold prints. African wax cloth, vintage sheets, or handprinted fabrics lend a contemporary look to this classic style.
Stripes and Checks
Stripes and gingham are always in style. Make a timeless Penny dress by using small or large-scale stripes and gingham. Try playing with directionality to add extra interest to your dress.
Floral
This wouldn’t be a Colette post if we didn’t share some floral inspiration! In our book, you can’t go wrong with a floral-print dress. For Penny, we love large scale floral prints.
What are your plans for Penny? Have you picked a fabric? Looking forward to hearing your plans!
Comments
Laura Ford
July 28, 2017 #
Why isn’t Penny available to buy with Seamwork credits??? I wanted her the day I first saw her…*swoon*…. sadly…can’t buy it with my credits???
sls
July 28, 2017 #
I also wanted to use my Seamwork credits for this. I’m hoping it becomes available soon. I’m itching to try it!
I’m new to Seamwork though, so maybe there’s something I don’t know
Meg
July 28, 2017 #
See my reply to Laura. Penny will be available for download in the Seamwork shop after our next release in the fall :)
Meg
July 28, 2017 #
Hi, Laura! Penny isn’t up in the Seamwork shop yet, but it will be available for download after our next pattern release in the fall. In the meantime, if you don’t want to wait, we have a coupon code for Seamwork members. Check your email announcement or send us an email if you can’t find it!
Laura Ford
July 28, 2017 #
Opps!! I can’t find my coupon and I TOTALLY Can’t wait!!! LOVE PENNY!!
Meg
July 28, 2017 #
I just sent you an email!
Cynthia
July 28, 2017 #
These are awesome, exactly what level sewer is the Penny pattern recommended for?
Really want to try it.
Meg
July 28, 2017 #
Intermediate or an adventurous beginner! Our instructions are designed to take you through each step, so don’t be afraid to give it a try. We’ve got you :)
nothy
July 28, 2017 #
I loved the Penny dress as soon as I saw it too. Great work Colette. You provide all the patterns for my work wear.
Wendy
July 29, 2017 #
I intend to make Penny in black broadcloth and modify the collar (basically, make just the collar stand) to accommodate a clergy collar. I think this will make a cute clergy dress…
Nina
August 20, 2017 #
All these photos seem to be shared uncredited – unless I’m missing the credits or a link to a Pinterest board?? Would be good to know sources, and I’m sure the photographers, designers etc would be happier with that too.