Summer mashup: new Look 6618 & 6489

Hello, hello, hello! The summer season is winding down, but here in Mississippi, we will feel summer temperatures long past September 23. I won’t lie, I love fall fashion, so I’m looking forward to sewing projects for the fall. However, before I start that, I still have a few summer looks to share with you, starting with this lovely look.

I grabbed this fabric from JoAnn's clearance section, knowing it would look fantastic with my cork heels. At the time, I had no clue what pattern I would be using, so I purchased three yards. After coming across a summer dress with a similar design on Pinterest, I knew it would be perfect. However, I couldn't find a pattern that matched my vision precisely, so I went to the fabric store to search the pattern books. I searched the Simplicity book at Joann and saw 6489, which had the upper bodice design that I was looking for, but I didn't want the elasticized waist. I realized if I used the bottom of 6618, which I made a few months ago, the dress would look exactly as I envisioned. Mash-up for the win.

As for 6489 bodice, it is a simple design, but it was perfect for the fabric. I cut the size 12 and graded to a size 8 at the waistline. The upper bodice is gathered to fit the neckband, which helps provide shape around the bust area. The back is finished with a simple button closure, and I went with a wooden button because it complimented the fabric design. To bring this look together, I used a scrap of fabric to make a narrow belt using a buckle from an old leather belt. I styled the dress with my cork wedge heels and cork bucket bag purse (yes, I made it!).