Dresses with side panels - tips from stylists. How to lengthen dresses of different styles yourself

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A dress is the most feminine item in your wardrobe and an ideal companion for a hot summer. True, you still shouldn’t thoughtlessly buy trendy models: some styles seem to be specially created to emphasize an imperfect tummy, massive hips or too heavy shoulder line.

website prepared a selection of outfits that can instantly wipe out months of work in the gym.

1. Bag dress

Robes in the shape of the letter “O” hide everything unnecessary, but at the same time turn the figure into something like a jug with two handles. Despite the fact that this style has been popular for several seasons, it is still better for plus size girls to avoid such dresses.

What to replace:

High-waisted dresses are considered the true heroes of camouflage when it comes to apple or pear figures. True, there is a risk of turning into a broad-shouldered Hercules - all because of the cut under the chest, mercilessly dividing the body horizontally.

What to replace:

Romantic dresses with sloping shoulders or lowered sleeves will never become an ally in the fight for harmony. Such models weigh down the torso, shoulders and arms, so we definitely add them to the list of “fashion traitors”.

What to replace:

A simple cut shirt dress. Clear geometric lines and a classic style will immediately add laconicism to the image and evenly “distribute” attention without focusing it on individual zones. In addition, according to Vogue, in 2018, a shirt dress is the ideal basic item for experimenting with style.

4. A-line dress with a full skirt

Dress with full skirt in the style of Dior's new look, it demonstrates to everyone it meets the fullness of its owner's waist and legs. Despite the fact that over the past couple of years, dresses of this style have been produced en masse by both luxury and budget brands, they look really good only on girls with model parameters.

What to replace:

Tulip dress. Even a slight narrowing of the skirt towards the bottom visually conceals the volume of the hips and legs. And this outfit also looks very feminine - certainly no worse than a lush “cake dress”.

5. Bandage dress

Bandage dresses, recognized as an anti-trend, still find their admirers. One might assume that dense fabric successfully hides problem areas, but this is not the case. Even a completely slender girl runs the risk of looking like a sausage tied with mesh in such an outfit. In addition, emphasizing all the best at once is considered a sign of bad taste today.

What to replace:

Sheath dress. It will also outline the advantages of the figure, but due to its thoughtful, fitted cut it will allow you to hide a few extra pounds.

6. Dress with American armhole


Fashion designer

Hello, dear readers!

The purpose of our lesson is to learn how to model dresses based on a basic pattern. The kind that even beginners can handle. In addition, we will look at simple styles of dresses that suit your body type, using examples of which you can, if you wish, create more complex models, enriching them with details and using a combination of fabric textures and colors.

Sometimes they write to us: “It’s very difficult for me to buy ready-made clothes, my figure is an inverted triangle, and besides, I have a very decent bust and a wide waist.” rib cage, i.e. my chest volume is 102 cm - this is a very big disappointment for me. I don’t have the opportunity to purchase anything for myself, because the rest of my figure parameters go to size 44-46... What style can I choose?”

Of course, having parameters that do not fit into the standards, it is difficult to find something to your liking in the store, and sometimes going for new thing turns into one disorder. Well, there’s no need to be sad, especially for a person who has at least a little experience in tailoring. And we will try to help with simple patterns, ones that even a novice tailor can create. It's no secret that everyone in the world makes dresses using one universal pattern, modifying and modeling it. Having such an invaluable tool in your arsenal, the creation of which on our website will not take much time, you will be able to dress according to your taste and the image invented by you.

First, what is a basic pattern? This is a pattern without model features; roughly speaking, it is a human figure made in a two-dimensional plane. The pattern has varying degrees fit, depending on what type of clothing will be designed in the future - outerwear (coat, jacket) or light (dress, blouse, corset, etc.), and differs in the size of the freedom increases. Therefore, on our website you will find both, and also, they will differ in increases, which is very important. By the way, on our website, along with the ability to create a basic pattern according to individual sizes, there is a whole range of dress models that are absolutely different in cut and suitable for women different types figures. You can also use them, especially since each size is available in three heights, and this is very important for a good fit of the finished product.

So, having the base pattern in hand, you and I can proceed directly to modeling. First, let's choose a dress model. You need to take this point very responsibly, objectively assessing your appearance, figure, image as a whole. After all, it’s no secret that we are all different people, each of us has our own individual figure, which sometimes does not fit into the so-called “framework of the ideal,” especially since this very ideal is different in each time period, it changes according to fashion trends. Let's not conform ourselves to standards and love our individuality. All female figures are conventionally divided into several body types, and each of us belongs to one type or another to a greater or lesser extent.


Illustration from the site https://high-fashion21.ru

Modeling a dress for a Triangle (pear) body type

The pear-type figure is very feminine, but sometimes brings the owner some difficulties when choosing ready-made dress due to the difference in the circumference of the hips and chest. Don't be upset. First, let's figure out which style to choose. We narrow the bottom and focus on the upper part: a boat-shaped neck, a large collar, a neckline, a bright print in the upper part of the dress, the bottom can be slightly flared, do not forget about the use of contrasting inserts running along the dress and visually modeling the figure, as well as a little high waist, heels and tights that match your shoes will make you look slimmer. We try to avoid decor in the hip area, patch pockets, draperies, transverse stripes and large prints.


For a modeling example, we will choose a simple sheath dress created on. The style is interesting because the model lines forming the silhouette demonstrate female figure just the lower type. Dark inserts running along the side seams will help visually hide the width of the hips, and a white, widening silhouette will bring a slimmer silhouette to the fore. But here you can’t go overboard with excessively narrowing the skirt, and if the difference between the girths of the chest and hips is large, it is better to widen the skirt a little towards the bottom.



Modeling. On the back and front pattern pieces, draw model relief lines running from the armholes to the bottom of the dress through the waist darts; on the back, transfer part of the solution to the midline of the back, for the greatest fit in this area. Open the chest dart in the armhole; read more about moving darts here. All that remains is to mark the allowance for the slot. If the difference between the waist and hip circumferences is large and the openings of the darts for fitting are more than 3-3.5 cm each, the dart needs to be divided into two, otherwise unsightly creases will appear in the finished product in the waist area.


In the second modeling option, we suggest widening the skirt towards the bottom, making it a so-called A-line silhouette; you can also make the dress cut off at the waist.


Modeling a dress for the "Inverted Triangle" body type

Your strong point is narrow hips and long slender legs. We focus on them. All the decor, bright prints are down on the skirt. We reduce the width of the shoulders, here raglan sleeves will help us, or the absence of sleeves at all in summer clothes, a dress with a strap on one shoulder, a Greek silhouette, a loose tunic, a dress with a tulip skirt can become a lifesaver and be loved in your wardrobe. You can afford to wear full, wide skirts, peplum skirts or trousers, straight-cut dresses, but not too voluminous or wide, with vertical seams or trim.

As an example, let's look at pattern modeling simple dress suitable for of this type figures. The style features a fitted sleeveless bodice and a tulip skirt that adds volume to the hips. The dress is cut along the waistline, there are two opposing folds on the front panel of the skirt, and a slit on the back panel of the skirt.

Let's start modeling by applying the back and shelf to the parts. raised lines (if you want a tighter fit or the fabric chosen is knitted, you can use a base pattern with a close-fitting silhouette). We will arrange the thallium darts on the front panel of the skirt into folds - cut the skirt part from the end of the darts vertically downwards, move the parts apart so that in the upper part we get a gap approximately equal to 6-8 cm to form deep counter folds. At the bottom we will keep the volume of the skirt in its original form.

Modeling a dress for an hourglass figure type

The hourglass figure type is the most feminine; it is the one that is rightfully considered a role model and we try to bring our figure closer to it, at least with the help of clothing. Lucky women are those who have this type of body type. The main advice is to focus on the waist, this way you will further emphasize your femininity and sexuality. Neckline, bows, pencil skirts, stilettos - this is your win-win look.

Let's model such a simple dress in two versions.

The model is quite simple at first glance, but with the right choice of fabric and accessories, it is very impressive.For modeling we need And . The dress is cut at the waist, the skirt is widened towards the bottom. The darts to fit the chest are transferred to the neckline: in the first version, the darts from the neckline are stitched with an allowance outward, a small sleeve with a fold, in the second version, the darts on the chest are distributed in folds extending from the neckline, there are no sleeves.

Modeling. Step 1 - on the back detail, the dart for the roundness of the shoulder can be neglected, because The neckline of the back is quite deep and wide, but the amount of opening must be removed from the length of the shoulder so as not to upset the balance. For ease of modeling, we will transfer the dart on the shelf into an armhole. We cut the skirt pattern pieces lengthwise from the darts down.

Next, step 2 of modeling. Let's outline a new neckline according to the sketch. We will transfer the thallium dart on the shelf to the neckline, and we will also transfer the dart from the armhole there. Read more about transferring darts. When designing a cut-off adjacent silhouette, the pattern of the shelf part should be lowered at the waist by 1 cm, this will give a better fit and prevent it from being pulled up in the finished form. Skirt. We connect the parts of the pattern obtained after cutting the skirt parts, so that the darts open towards the bottom. Let's adjust the side cuts and bottom of the product.


Sleeve modeling. The pattern for the base of the sleeve can be found on ours. First, shorten the length to the required length. Using vertical cuts running from the hem to the bottom of the part, and subsequent sliding apart of the pattern parts, design a counter fold.


More detailed modeling of sleeves can be found in this

In the second version of the dress, the darts on the front are translated into folds extending from the neckline. We will consider modeling below.


Modeling a dress for the Oval (apple) body type

Oval (apple) figure. In the era of Rubens, women with this type of figure were the ideal of perfection. The silhouette is visually close in shape to the letter "o". Strategy in making the right choice clothing will highlight and accentuate the waist, this can be done by choosing a dress that is slightly wider towards the bottom, as well as using belts, decorative inserts that make the waist visually narrower, the top of the dress should be slightly widened, for example using a V-shaped neckline, collars. Sheath dresses, wrap dresses, low waist, A-line dresses will suit you.


As an example, let's look at this dress. It is interesting because it has a contrasting decorative line running along the dress. Visually, it greatly elongates the silhouette and makes you slimmer. In addition, the dress is loose at the waist and slightly widens towards the bottom, which is undoubtedly a plus for this type of figure. Clear cut lines and a choice of fabric that holds its shape create the desired look and collect the entire figure. To simulate this model we will use , for a better fit.


Modeling. We straighten the side cuts of the parts, because The dress has a straight, loose silhouette. Transfer the dart on the bulge of the chest to the side seam and mark the relief line. Shorten the sleeve detail pattern just above the elbow.


In the received details we will outline the front yoke and cut it off.


Modeling a dress for a Rectangle body type

Female figure of the rectangle type. For modern models it is the most typical. Therefore, when buying ready-made clothes, there are usually no problems, but sometimes you really want something special! This is where our modeling tips and patterns can come in handy!)) Women with this body type do not need to try to look like Marilyn Monroe or Sophia Loren, this is not your style. Dresses and clothes in the image of Twiggy, Kate Moss, Nicole Kidman and Coco Chanel herself are what we strive for.


We chose just the right dress for the modeling lesson. We will need a pattern this time. Sleeveless, loose-fitting dress with an oncoming pleat running from the neckline downwards, secured at the bottom to give the product oval silhouette. Pockets can be made in the side seams.

Little troubles that happen in Everyday life, sometimes leave marks on clothes. Don't worry about a damaged item, everything can be fixed. After learning several ways to lengthen a dress, you may be able to give a second life to your favorite wardrobe item. The reasons that made you pick up a needle and scissors are not so important. The main thing is that now there is room for creativity and the opportunity to show imagination.

You always want things to fit perfectly and keep their shape after washing. Often, due to lack of time, you have to do everything on the run. A quick try-on can result in disappointment at home, and the poor-quality composition of your favorite product can upset you after the first time it goes into the washing machine.

It also happens that the purchased dress has become inappropriate for office work. The color, style, fabric are suitable - everything except the length. And sometimes the very texture of the material forces the hem of the dress to rise, at the slightest opportunity exposing the legs for everyone to see, thereby creating awkward situations. The answer to the question of what to do if the dress has become short is obvious: first of all, do not fall into despair. It can always be extended.

Ways to add length

Ideas for lengthening a short dress will not only help solve the hem problem, but also decorate the item, turning it into a creative, modern piece of clothing. It often seems that only a professional tailor can cope with such a task. That is why many people wonder: is it possible to lengthen the dress yourself. The answer is clear - of course. Many options will not only save precious budget and time, but also allow you to show maximum creativity at minimal cost.

Using lace or flounce

One of the easiest ways to lengthen a dress with your own hands is to sew a strip of material to its hem. So as not to get hurt appearance, you need to use exactly the same fabric as the one from which the product is made. If there is no piece of identical material, it is worth playing with contrast.

A slight difference in color or texture of the material or its weaving will be noticeable. Even a difference in one tone or another texture is noticeable. This greatly spoils the appearance of the dress.

You can lengthen the hem:

  1. Wide lace braid. Elegant openwork weaving is suitable for light summer dresses made of viscose, silk or other flowing materials. The color is selected to match the main shade. If you are interested in how to lengthen denim Short dress, then lace will be one of the most successful options. Its beige or white shade without shine will emphasize the color of denim, playing on the difference in fabric textures. Thick bouclé fabrics for autumn-winter clothing also go well with this type of trim, but the shade of the insert should be darker than the main material.
  2. A shuttlecock made of fabric. By choosing a material that is identical or similar in composition, you can decorate any dress, regardless of season and style. In this case, you should carefully consider the choice of color. To create a more complete look, you can further decorate the sleeve cuffs or collar area.

When lengthening the hem with lace or fabric, special attention should be paid to the pomp. To get a large volume of flounces, you need to sew twice as much material as the total length of the hem. Fluffy elements are suitable for a straight, tight knitted outfit. If you just need to lengthen the clothes, then the fabric is taken in a 1:1 ratio. The flounces can be attached to the front or inside of the skirt. Choosing a way to lengthen a short linen dress, you need to take into account that the material loses its shape when worn, so massive ruffles are not suitable for this type of fabric.

In order to sew a fluffy hem, regardless of the type of fabric or braid, you must first thread the piece with a needle onto a long thread, straighten it evenly along the entire length, and only then sew it onto the bottom of the garment.


Lengthening a dress with lace
Extension with flounce

Making inserts on the skirt

Surely many have wondered: is it possible to lengthen the hem of a dress using an insert at the bottom. It is recommended to add them at the seams or by cutting the edge of the dress. If you make wedges that exceed the length of the product by 10-20 cm, the skirt will appear visually larger. Guipure, mesh, and lace are great for this method. As a result of such alterations, things are obtained with an echo of Spanish culture.

Particular attention should be paid to symmetry when inserting wedges. If you carefully observe the dimensions from the middle on both sides, the result looks like a factory one. If this rule is neglected, the alteration will be noticeable immediately. Master class on lengthening a dress using inserts
Tools for work
Lace braid from 5 cm wide
Measure 11 cm from the edge of the hem and cut straight
Finish the edges with an overlock or zigzag stitch
Turn the finished seams to the wrong side, baste and iron
Sew the braid to the dress Ready-made long outfit

Waist extension

When choosing how to lengthen a short dress, you should know that the methods are not limited to just increasing the size of the hem. Many models have a seam at the waist. If you add an insert in this place, the length of the bottom will drop by its width. By using contrasting colors, you can focus attention on the graceful silhouette, and using various materials, it is beneficial to highlight the texture. This method is recommended for sun or semi-sun style products. Lengthening the dress at the waist for an a-line is also possible, but it all depends on the width of the cut angle.

If the material for insertion is similar, but does not quite match the main type of fabric, when combined with lace, guipure or mesh, you can visually hide the discrepancies.

Bodice extension

Options for changing clothing are not limited to the hem and waist area. In some cases it is possible to lengthen the bodice. This method will look especially beneficial on dresses in the style of Marilyn Monroe with a wrap around the bust area.

Adding fabric to the bodice area will be most preferable for styles such as sheath, pencil. When choosing a way to increase the length of a straight silhouette dress, do not forget about the importance of color. A contrasting strip of fabric will visually highlight the bust. If you need to distract attention, you can divide the total width of the material in half and insert the first half into the bodice, and add the second half to the hem.

Creating a high waist

One way to lengthen straight dress, is to change the silhouette by creating a high waist. This option is not suitable for flared styles, since alterations in clothing will be too obvious. The procedure looks like this:

  • select a suitable piece of fabric;
  • cut out the strip evenly;
  • fasten with safety pins;
  • stitch;
  • we process the seams.

If you don’t have much sewing experience, after pinning the wedge with needles, you should baste the parts together from the wrong side. This is done to ensure that the seam is even when sewing.

Using cap elements

If necessary, add length to dresses for ceremonial events you can use cap elements. This option is stylistically not suitable for everyday wear, as it looks too elegant and pretentious. Throw-on elements will advantageously set off models made of shiny fabrics, giving them an even greater touch of solemnity.

You should not use this method on silhouettes with flared hems. Hanging flounces will be lost against the background of the folds of the skirt and will not retain their shape or visual effect.

For work, fabrics that hold folds well are used, for example, a veil. To make it, you need to hang the dress on a hanger, use safety pins to secure the textile with the required number of folds, and sew it. It is worth strictly ensuring that the shuttlecocks look symmetrical, preferably measuring the dimensions with a ruler or centimeter.

Another option for the cape method would be to make a translucent fabric with an identical cut, but longer, single-tiered or multi-tiered skirt. Usually it is fastened over the dress, turning it into a transformer. A transparent case looks great in the form of a longer, but repeating the cut of an outfit made of veil or lace. This method requires more fabric, but the results are worth it.

Creating a loop

Evening dresses attract attention with their style, decor and cut elements. It is this style that is more conducive to experimentation than others. Extension along the hem is possible not only with a straight strip, but also with geometrically irregular lines. The train on such a dress looks appropriate, adding zest to the image.

When making it, you need to be careful: a train that is too short or too long will look like an obvious homemade product. First you need to choose the right material. Next, divide it into several parts - front and back. It would be optimal to reduce the length of the first part by half. The back part is folded in half, with an elongated middle and short side edges, an even straight line is drawn, and then the material is cut. After this, both parts are sewn in the same way as a shuttlecock. Short clothes, improved in this way, can be complemented with inserts on the sleeves or matching jewelry. If the style and texture of the fabric match, creating a train will be in the best possible way how to lengthen the back of a dress. Knitwear and denim are a separate line in the list of fabrics for everyday wear. The softness of the first and the texture of the second do not provide much scope for creativity. Therefore, we lengthen a denim dress only with the help of flounces and lace. Both methods can be performed by beginning craftswomen. Methods for lengthening a denim dress do not involve changing the cut due to the stitching, the violation of which is immediately noticeable. For a knitted outfit, you can use inserts from artificial leather, translucent fabric in the chest and waist area.

Decorating inserts

The final appearance of the product depends on the material used for the inserts, so you should choose it carefully. Stylists advise using not only plain fabrics, but also striped and polka dot colors, the main tone of which matches the color of the dress. Leather and substitute inserts are recommended as universal, suitable for any fabric texture. Finished elements, if necessary, are decorated with rhinestones, beads, sequins or beads. And if on casual dress bright decor will not always look good, but on an evening or cocktail attire the elements will sparkle.

Solving the problem of how to beautifully lengthen summer dress or things for the cold season, you need to understand that most of the options can be made with your own hands. What looks like a complex design creation is actually easy to complete with a little time and research. By changing the length of the dress, you can not only create a new product, but also show your creativity to the maximum.

Video

A waist that is too thin by nature is a truly rare occurrence. Fortunately, today there are a variety of correction techniques with which it is not difficult to visually draw it. Let's figure out what will help emphasize the curves of the female body.

A-line skirt

A skirt of this cut, firstly, hides the hips, and secondly, makes the waist thinner and more expressive. Just look how well it “works” on Chloe Moretz, the owner of a rectangular figure. Take note of models with a clear fit at the waist, flared downwards.

Wrap dress

Ideal solution for visual correction figures of any type. A wrap dress emphasizes the chest area, reduces waist size and creates ideal proportions.

Basque

This decorative element can emphasize the curves of the body, making the figure more feminine and expressive. The peplum not only visually narrows the waist, but also distracts attention from large hips and also hides the stomach. Top, dress, skirt or belt - your choice.

High waistline

Skirts, trousers, shorts, Bermuda shorts, and high-waisted jeans look great with the top tucked in. This gives lightness to the figure and creates the feeling of a narrow waist. Another cool way— tuck the blouse or jumper only in the front, letting the fabric out at the sides and back.

Cropped top

It can be a crop top, jacket, jumper or any other option to your taste. The shortened top perfectly “cuts through” the waist, focusing attention on it. For this method to work, it is important to combine the top with high-waisted skirts or trousers.

Belt/belt

This technique will help not only emphasize the waist, but also divide the figure in the correct proportion. For those with large shapes, wide belt models are more suitable, and for fragile girls, medium and thin ones are more suitable. IN Lately designers suggest wearing belts on literally all elements of the wardrobe: from dresses to outerwear.

Fitted silhouette

Take note of one more tricky trick: you need to add volume to the shoulders and hips so that the waist looks slimmer in contrast with them. For example, a fitted jacket with a clear shoulder line or a dress with a full skirt and a voluminous top.

Color block

Playing with color is a whole architecture in the fashion world. The waist can literally be “drawn” with the help of the right cut and combination of shades. For example, a dress with dark inserts on the sides visually elongates the silhouette and highlights the waist, making it thinner.

Shades of different color groups can visually shorten the legs or add volume around the waist; shades of the same color group act in exactly the opposite way and give a slimming effect.

Color contrast is acceptable if the transition is in the waist area. For example, the classic “light top - dark bottom” scheme will perfectly emphasize the waist.

Playing with prints

We create a waist using visual illusions without changing the silhouette. You should be careful with horizontal stripes and large polka dots, but you can’t go wrong with vertical and diagonal stripes. You don't have to buy a completely striped item; a couple of contrasting vertical stripes are enough.

Dress with optical illusion– this is an amazing idea! If you want to reduce your waist, enlarge your breasts, lengthen your legs - no problem! How is this possible? Dress with optical effect! Women have always strived for perfection, making all sorts of sacrifices - from plastic surgery to removal of the lower ribs, and all for the sake of thin waist or longer legs.

The designers decided to approach this problem from a different angle and offered more simple ways, namely, modeling techniques that allow you to visually reduce or increase volumes where necessary.

I suggest you experiment and sew a dress with an optical effect. Another plus is that this dress is made of knitwear and does not require unnecessary effort and time.




Rice. 1-2: Optical effect dress - front and back

Dress with optical effect - pattern


Rice. 3. Dress with optical effect - pattern modeling


The dress is sewn from elastic knitwear, so to model the pattern we will use the base pattern of the dress without darts.

Dress modeling

On the pattern of the back and front of the dress, draw modeling lines as shown in Fig. 3.


IMPORTANT! To place accents exactly where they are needed, mark the high bust line, waist line and hip line on the pattern.

Cut the back and front pattern along the red modeling lines.


Cut out the middle pieces from black jersey, and the side pieces from white.

Pattern of a narrow knitted sleeve for a dress

To create a pattern for a narrow sleeve, you need to take the following measurements:


Sleeve length according to measurement – ​​60 cm


Wrist circumference – 18 cm



Rice. 4. Sleeve pattern for a dress with an optical effect


We begin the construction of the sleeve from point O - the highest point of the edge. From point O, set aside the length of the sleeve according to the measurement + 1 cm - point H. From point O down, set aside the height of the edge - a segment equal to ½ segment AB (see on the pattern of the back of the dress - Fig. 3) + 1 cm - point O1. Draw a horizontal line from point O1 to the left.


From point O, lay down a segment OO2 equal to A1B1 at an angle (see on the pattern of the back of the dress - Fig. 3) so that point O2 lies on a horizontal line drawn from point O1.


From point O2 upward, set aside 2/5 of the length of the segment OO2 - point O3 is obtained. Divide OO3 in half and draw a perpendicular 2 cm long up. Divide the O2O3 segment in half and draw a perpendicular 0.5 cm long down. Connect points O, 2, O3, 0.5, O2 using a pattern or by hand.


From point H, set aside a segment equal to ½ wrist circumference + 0.7 cm to the left. Connect points H1 and O2 with a straight line. Cut out a sleeve with a fold along the OH line.

Dress with optical effect - cutting

IMPORTANT! The dress is sewn only from elastic knitwear.


From black knitwear, cut out:


Middle part of the back – 1 piece with fold


Middle front – 1 piece with fold


From white knitwear, cut out:


Side part of the back – 2 parts


Side part of the front – 2 parts


Sleeve – 2 parts


Seam allowances – 0.7 cm, at the bottom of the dress – 2 cm.


Advice: It is better to sew a dress on an overlocker, at the same time grinding and processing the details according to the allowances.

How to sew a dress with an optical effect

Sew the side and middle back pieces, stitch the side and middle back pieces. Sew the back and front along the shoulder and side seams, leaving a slit along the right side seam.


Sew the sleeves at the seams, sew into the armholes. Turn up the bottom, stitching with a double needle.


Finish the neckline with an overlocker, turn it up 0.5 cm and stitch with a double needle. Tuck and stitch the allowances along the side slit and the bottom of the dress.

How to turn a simple dress into a dress with an optical effect?


If you have a dress in light colors in your wardrobe that seems out of date, we advise you to turn it into a dress with an optical effect. How can I do that? Very simple! – sew lace of a contrasting color along the waist or sides as shown in the photo.


Ideas from designers!

Rounded hips, lush breasts and an elegant waist are probably the ultimate dream of any woman. Designers made this dream come true by inventing dresses that create the illusion of ideal proportions. Kate Winslet, Victoria Beckham and Keira Knightley have already appreciated all the advantages of dresses with contrasting inserts.

Kate Winslet's ideal figure

At the 68th Venice Film Festival, Kate Winslet appeared in a white Stella McCartney dress with black inserts on the sides, which literally cut off extra centimeters from the actress’s waist, and a contrasting light insert on the neckline emphasized Kate’s breasts. Winslet has been accused more than once of not meeting Hollywood beauty standards. The actress never really appeared on the list of the thinnest celebrities, but on the contrary, she always resisted the pressure of her colleagues. Her patience was rewarded: the designers offered the actress original version dress, in which her “imperfect” figure overnight became an object of admiration. What is the secret of Kate Winslet's transformation?

The secret of Liv Tyler and Gwyneth Paltrow's slimness

The owner of curvaceous Liv Tyler also decided to try the miraculous power of the “illusion” dress, wearing a blue outfit from Stella McCartney to the New York premiere of her film “The Price of Passion.” The result was no less stunning than Kate Winslet's. Having gained a couple of kilograms, Liv triumphantly strode through carpet. The wonderful outfit was also enjoyed by thinner stars. Gwyneth Paltrow chose a similar dress, but managed not to lose a couple of kilos, but on the contrary, to gain. Thanks to black lace inserts, Paltrow's figure acquired more feminine contours: her hips became fuller and her breasts became larger.

Victoria Beckham's favorite dress

Victoria Beckham is known for her deep knowledge of fashion. Business card designer - narrow, minimalistic outfits with an emphasis on the hips and shoulders. It is in these dresses that you can most often see Victoria. It is not surprising that the former “peppercorn” with her almost perfect figure could not resist the dress with the “optical effect”. Thanks to the “hypnotic” pattern on the outfit, Beckham’s figure acquired an hourglass shape. Actress Keira Knightley is not overweight, but her athletic figure needed an illusion dress. The deep neckline, decorated with threads of beads, and slits at the waist visually softened the actress's angular silhouette and added femininity to it.

Optical illusion dress

The fashion for outfits with an optical effect came from the spring-summer 2009 season, when the fashion houses Alexander McQueen and Herve Leger presented their models in a sporty style using graphic prints that create a wasp-waist effect. Stylist Angie Smith explains: “In the past, women used accessories to create an hourglass silhouette: belts to create a thin waist, and hangers to balance proportions. Now dresses with inserts do this job.”

Eye perception expert Peter Thompson knows: "Dark inserts on the sides create the effect that if you stand against a black background, the actual contours of the body will not be visible." Ideal figure can create not only dark inserts, but also light ones: “White and gray create a darkening effect, because, according to human perception, light comes from top to bottom. Thus, grey colour on white it looks like a shadow cast by the chest. This makes the breasts look higher. Any woman can look better, all she needs is a basic knowledge of optical effects.”

Despite wonderful properties dresses with inserts, it must be worn wisely: do not do a dark manicure and wear shoes with ankle straps, a belt or a long necklace with a similar outfit. All this will distract attention from the dress, and the optical effect will be nullified.

The miraculous effect of an outfit with contrasting inserts can only be compared with a dress with a peplum, which visually makes the hips appear fuller and the waist thinner.

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