Our Phoebes: Part Two

One of the best things about Phoebe is its versatility. This dress looks just as fabulous styled with some great shoes for Spring, as it does with sweaters and tights for Winter. Today we are sharing three amazing versions of Phoebe, perfect for warmer weather.

WALLIS

What alterations did you make to your Phoebe to get a custom fit?
The only modification I made was reducing the bodice by 1/2″ at the center back. I also chose to shorten the skirt by an 1 1/2″.

What was the inspiration behind your version of Phoebe?
After checking my fabric stash I stumbled across this vintage fabric that has been in my collection for years. It has followed me around the country for several moves after my mom found it at a thrift store. I didn’t want to use a dark plaid, to avoid making it look too “schoolgirl.” The light colors make it appropriate to wear in spring, but the heavier fabric will keep me warm in the winter months as well. I went with version 1 (despite the bit of extra work) I like the added interest that this version offers.

What fabric did you use?
The fabric was thrifted and I found the buttons on eBay.

How do you plan on wearing your Phoebe?
This winter I’ll layer with a cardigan and light colored tights or leggings. For shoes, either flats or oxfords.

DELANEY

What alterations did you make to your Phoebe to get a custom fit?
My measurements vary as a size 12 in my bust and waist and I taper to a size 14 starting 4” down from my natural waistline. I checked my neck to waist measurement against the pattern and shortened the bodice by 1.5”. I also raised and reshaped the neckline more into a bateau neckline to better suit my fabric and personal style.

What was the inspiration behind your version of Phoebe?
I was inspired by a wedding dress by Christian Dior that features a fabric similar to mine and I liked the subtle elegance of the colors. The Phoebe has a classic silhouette and I wanted to blend the timelessness of the pattern and fabric.

What fabric did you use?
I used a Michael Miller cotton from their Blue and White Porcelain line. Prior to living in Portland, I worked in a wonderful fabric shop in Ashland, Oregon called Fabric of Vision. Sani Globus, the owner, was lucky enough to get as much of this print as we did, and I bought the last 4 yards. We sold out of the bolt in a matter of a week. I have yet to find more but will continue to search because it is absolutely gorgeous.

How do you plan on wearing your Phoebe?
I plan to wearing Phoebe year round. I can layer and dress it down for a more casual professional look, but I can also dress it up with the addition of some accessories.

KRIS

What alterations did you make to your Phoebe to get a custom fit?
The pattern worked for me pretty well right out of the envelope, but I made some minor adjustments to perfect the fit. I took the back in at the neck by 2”, graded between sizes at the waist 2”, and raised the waistline 1/2”.

What was the inspiration behind your version of Phoebe?
I was inspired by the classic style of fashion icon Audrey Hepburn. I stumbled across an image of her in a pinafore and knew I had to recreate it.

What fabric did you use?
I began searching for colored denims and canvas, but I wound up falling in love with a blue and white striped ticking at Bolt Fabric here in Portland.

How do you plan on wearing your Phoebe?
In the fall I plan to wear my Phoebe with a long sleeved shirt underneath, such as a chambray collared shirt, or a thick black tee, and a pair of brown or black loafers. In the summer I’m excited to keep it simple and wear it as a dress with a strappy pair of brown sandals and an arm full of gold bracelets.

We want to see your Phoebes now! Be sure to use #phoebedress when sharing your dresses on social media. We would love to see all the amazing variations you have cooking!