Before attacking the dress, what’s does the dress look like with a belt? Might be a quick fix? Failing that, yes it would look good as a blouse. Loving guest appearances from Simba and Tigger 😂
Hello! I think a shorter dress with some fun tights would be amazing and different from what you already have. I think it looks great on you btw but you have to feel good about it. Haven’t cut mine out yet but it’s next!
I agree with you, the dress is wearing you. I would turn it into a mini dress and maybe take in the sides a little. Wear it with tights and high boots and it will look great!
I think you can totally rock this dress with a few tweaks! Since it has longish sleeves and high neck, definitely need to show more leg for balance by hemming somewhere above the knee (and of course you can still wear those black tights.) And then to tame all that fabric, what about some front and/or back darts or tucks or box pleats to bring it in a bit? Might even be fun to go asymmetrical and do the tucks on just one side? Grab some pins and play! Could always take in the sides a bit. Another option might be to make a little self-fabric belt to bring it in around your high waist. Add some sparkly earrings/jewelry too! Happy sewing, whatever you decide to do! 💖
Put ties into the side seams and try in back, it will give your black dress shape. Try this 1st before shortening or make into top. I think it is lovely as a dress, but also would be amazing as a top.
The material is fab for the black dress. Love the neck, the back, and the sleeves. I do agree about the shape of the dress on you. A blouse is a great idea, but what about Shirring a few rows around the waist or a row of elastic to give it a shape. It’s a shame to waste the material. Good luck! Xxx🥰
I think that cutting the dress off into a top would take it from “Vicar of Dibley” to chic and versatile. Particularly since you won’t wear it as it is. The fabric and sleeves are just lovely, and hopefully you’d get to enjoy it as a top
I’m sat here talking to the tv as I’m tidying up my sewing room “short, yes, yes Ruan, short, tunic style with tights/leggings and boots”. Maybe try that first before cutting off to a top.
Unfortunately I agree about the dress, I would suggest trying a belt first(maybe even a red one for the red shoes) but if not the blouse could rescue it
Definitely try a belt before breaking out the scissors ✂️...just in case. By the way, loving the Jarrah and have popped it on my list of future makes. 👍
Definitely know what you mean about the dress I made an hope dress by style arc I loved the fabric but oh my goodness the dress definitely wore me I was drowning in it lol i think the dress would make a lovely blouse xx
So, I love the fabric of the dress, and I think as a dress it has potential. I think if it was a little bit shorter, and if you did ties like the Saltwater slip dress, it could really look nice. I think short with tights would also look very mod and cute. And, of course you could always cut it into a top. The fabric is soooooooo good!
I agree that it seems to be wearing you, I think maybe try chopping it to your next fave skirt length. See how you feel, but I do think it will look lush as a blouse. It is a lot of fabric, so maybe if you are to make it again, maybe try it with a belt? If that look suits you 😊 you could always make a belt if you have enough of this fabric left. Cinch it in a little. Good luck, its lovely fabric! X
I actually just made a dress as a toile for some "precious" fabric. Glad I did, because it looks like a nightgown! But I've decided to sew 6 thin vertical outward facing pleats in a row from the under bust to right below my natural waist, and same in the back to give it some shape and style. I think that will save it!
Not my favourite dress pattern to start with but I think it would make a fantastic top and with all that fabric left you could make a really fancy at leisure suit..
That's so funny. I've been to B&M tonight. I just paused it to sort the dog out. Pressed play and for a moment I thought it was my shopping at the tills! I discovered and bought some cola chewits too!
Definitely make a top from it. Sometimes it just doesn’t work and it’s usually when it’s been made for a specific occasion. I’m sure you will love it in the end. Loving following your Vlogmas journey. Enjoy your party tomorrow.
Could you sew a channel for elastic at the waist and use the extra fabric for a frill at the bottom to lengthen the dress? A blouse would be lovely too.
I think I’d agree, currently the dress is wearing you, that fabric is GORGEOUS though and in general suits you very well. Maybe try cutting it like a mini-dress (10cm above knee or thereabouts) + a chunky bright red statement necklace, black tights and it’d be a stunner 🤩 give it a try, if it doesn’t work you can still make it into a blouse and that will be a winner for sure 😉 good luck and looking forward to seeing the result 🥰
A broken toilet seat huh?!!! Real life strikes again! I love the new mug! I’ll check Ruth out. I need a mug with my FB Page (and upcoming YT channel on it).
The black is so striking on you!! I’d say a top would be fab.. or could you throw a really sparkly statement belt on it to break up the dress? I’m sure you’ll figure it out ❤
I think a dress with a high neck, fairly long sleeves, and that much volume, needs to be short to balance it out, so you're not just swamped in fabric. Otherwise, it does give glitzy cassock vibes 😜. Even before you said it, I was thinking high-low hem. I'd make the front really quite short, as high as you dare (at least a few inches above the knee). It'd then look great with tights, especially with black patterned tights, to really make a feature of it. (Try those animal print ones for extra 🐆 🐆 🐆) You've got nothing to lose playing around with the hemline, because if it isn't for for, you can then just go ahead and chop it to blouse length, and then you'd have a smashing top.
You have a good plan cutting it short to make a blouse. Unfortunately it does overwhelm you as is. Perhaps the cut off fabric could be used in the black bag you plan to make. Have a wonderful Christmas with your sweet family, Ruan!
Great vlog as always you got loads for the money in B&M. Agree about the dress it’s too much make t into a top then you can pair with bright trousers ❤❤
The fabric is really nice but yes - make it into a top and you can wear it with some skinny jeans and some heeled boots. It’s real frustrating when things don’t turn out the way you expect.
Hi Ryan, sadly I agree the dress seems a bit overwhelming but before you cut it into a blouse, I think you should try taking it in down both sides and if that doesn’t work then cut it into a top. Good luck
Agree, it does not flatter you. Maybe needs a belt, or a belt that ties jn front with a bow but goes around you inside through like suits in the waist?
Love your videos! I'm new to garment sewing, so not sure how hard this would be, but how about release pleats in the front? Check out pictures of the Closet Core Crew Quartz dress. Good luck finding a solution - the fabric is lovely!
You are brave and encouraging to show us your dress Ruan. So disappointing when what we make doesn't suit us. A blouse in red would showcase your beautiful personality better. Wearing just all black is a hard one. xx Karen
I have been so enjoyed watching your videos. The black dress is beaututiful (such great fabric). You might take in in the sides and shorten it to make it feel better. See you in the next video. Happy Sewing!
You do make me giggle. I immediately thought of a priest’s gown the way it is, definitely a top though with skinny jeans and boots will look fab, the sleeves and fabric look lovely X
Would love the dress as a top, looks a bit frumpy as a dress,( hope that doesn’t sound rude).You,ve made a lovely job, , maybe a short dress with black tights would look lovely.😌x.
I see what you meen about the dress. The top i gorgeous. I think a short dress with leggins would look nice, but if you dont like that, a long blouse? It will be fine either way, because the fabric is beautiful and the fit is perfect on the top 👍
Its cute, the fabric is lovely. I do think its rather shapless as is tho, not as flattering as it could be. It needs a visible waistline. Maybe you can add a channel at your waist to add ties or a belt, or elastic? (Im imagining the closet core sallie maxi) Chopping it to a top would be pretty cute too. I do love the scoop in the back.
OMG. I had such a great laugh….OH SIMBA….one of the best feelings, a big happy laugh. Tigger also gets honourable mention. ❤️ the cat’s video bomb. Thank you.
Hi. Think you are right about the dress as it is wearing you. I think shortening it and wearing it with black tights is worth a try. Still lots of black but would see more of your shape. I would also try it with a long silver or sparkly necklace to break up the black and again define your shape a little. Jude x
I agree that a blouse or shorter dress would help but also I think the neckband gives the appearance of drawing a black line near your face. Could you possibly take the neck band off and use a button closure for the back. Also a V neckline might show more skin which will soften the front of the blouse or dress and reduce the heavy appearance of the garment. The fabric is gorgeous hope it can be reconfigured.
I vote for a blouse! I think that would look much better on you as a blouse. You could always try a belt, maybe in a bright color, to give it a bit of shape at the waist? The top part is quite lovely!
Hi Ruan. I can't get the idea of adding a wide black velvet belt/sash to the black dress. It would bring in the waist and the texture of the tone-on-tone black fabric against the deep-as-night black velvet would probably play together elegantly. I hope you get some breathing space soon, Antonia
I can understand what you mean about the dress - I think it needs to sit just above the knee and be worn with heeled boots or shoes. You have to be comfy to be confident in it. Beautiful fabric that cannot be wasted. Hope your loo seat was fixed- made me laugh😂😂😂. Lynne
Loving vlogmas 🎄 Thank you for doing it , it such a gift !! As for the dress !! I would for sure try shortening it !! You are gorgeous in anything but try shorter or maybe a belt ?
I agree that it’s not the most flattering dress but I think it’s the colour. I think it could work as a top with black jeans maybe. I also think it’s the length which is a bit old fashioned on you. Sometimes it is just the length and the tights shoes or boots to add. Try pinning up a section to see the right length for you. Well done with the pyjamas. The boys will be pleased. 😊
I really like the dress - I think the problem might be it looks like a lot of solid black on you. If you have some bright chunky jewellery - necklace and bangles it would make all the difference. I love the dress as it is but I think you should make it into a blouse so you will wear it but it has a beautiful drape and is very classic. The cut out back is stunning but if you don't feel right change it to something you will like more. 😎❤
Certainly no longer than knee length for the dress - the black is very formal looking. In a loud cotton fabric for summer it would probably look totally different in the long length.
I can see what you mean about your black dress. How about making a sliver or dull sliver sequin removable collar. Take in the side seams at waist line only giving you more waist definition. Have you tried it with a belt ? style it up with bright earrings and neckless. Love your videos, joy all the way with count down to Christmas ❤
Ruan wear some big blingy jewellery with the black dress. Ie a cluster of diamontes near the neck or beeds. Black dresses have a habit of looking drab until you accessorise. Try it
I’ll have to say I agree with you, not the most flattering dress, but the fabric looks fabulous so I also agree on making it into a blouse ☺️
Before attacking the dress, what’s does the dress look like with a belt? Might be a quick fix? Failing that, yes it would look good as a blouse. Loving guest appearances from Simba and Tigger 😂
Sadly Ruan, I agree with your comments on the dress😢 The sleeves are amazing and I think a top would look smashing😊
I'd shorten it as dress first, and then if you're still not keen, chop it to blouse length. Some sparkly snags would be nice with it ❤ xx
Perhaps try a belt with the dress plus possibly a colorful necklace or scarf. I agree, it looks nice when you are sitting.😊
I love the conversation about the toilet seat. I miss having kids. Sort of.
Hello! I think a shorter dress with some fun tights would be amazing and different from what you already have. I think it looks great on you btw but you have to feel good about it. Haven’t cut mine out yet but it’s next!
Can’t wait to see yours 😍
Yes,I would cut it off. If you don't feel great in it you won't wear it.❤❤
Ooh both kitties in one video! Kisses to Simba and Tigger💜
I agree with you, the dress is wearing you. I would turn it into a mini dress and maybe take in the sides a little. Wear it with tights and high boots and it will look great!
I think you can totally rock this dress with a few tweaks! Since it has longish sleeves and high neck, definitely need to show more leg for balance by hemming somewhere above the knee (and of course you can still wear those black tights.) And then to tame all that fabric, what about some front and/or back darts or tucks or box pleats to bring it in a bit? Might even be fun to go asymmetrical and do the tucks on just one side? Grab some pins and play! Could always take in the sides a bit. Another option might be to make a little self-fabric belt to bring it in around your high waist. Add some sparkly earrings/jewelry too! Happy sewing, whatever you decide to do! 💖
Put ties into the side seams and try in back, it will give your black dress shape. Try this 1st before shortening or make into top. I think it is lovely as a dress, but also would be amazing as a top.
The material is fab for the black dress. Love the neck, the back, and the sleeves. I do agree about the shape of the dress on you. A blouse is a great idea, but what about Shirring a few rows around the waist or a row of elastic to give it a shape. It’s a shame to waste the material. Good luck! Xxx🥰
Yes turn it into top will look much nicer on you than the dress. Love your dedication to Vlogmas, look forward to it every day.❤
I love your authenticity, Ruan! ❤
Awww the you SO much 🥰
Yep - the blouse idea is a winner. I just love it when you go to B&M. Funny girl.
I love that you chose your outfit based on the earrings… fills me with so much joy! ❤
Cut the dress down into a top or add a belt? One with colour? X
Love them!!
Yes shorten it like a tent dress in the sixties and do something with the sleeves they are hanging wrongly shorten them too.
I think that cutting the dress off into a top would take it from “Vicar of Dibley” to chic and versatile. Particularly since you won’t wear it as it is. The fabric and sleeves are just lovely, and hopefully you’d get to enjoy it as a top
I’m sat here talking to the tv as I’m tidying up my sewing room “short, yes, yes Ruan, short, tunic style with tights/leggings and boots”. Maybe try that first before cutting off to a top.
The dress is just FINE! You are overthinking!!!
It should NOT be altered! Wear it as is at Christmas. And you will see!
My hubby went to B and M without me!!!!! Enjoyed your haul
Whaaaaaaat?
Unfortunately I agree about the dress, I would suggest trying a belt first(maybe even a red one for the red shoes) but if not the blouse could rescue it
Yeah I think it needs to be a shorter dress, or top! Really enjoying your vlogmas Ruan thanks for sharing x
I would make the dress short and add a colorful statement necklace 😊...maybe red or yellow
16:59 blouse, yes!
I love seeing your kitties!❤❤
🐈 ❤️
Definitely try a belt before breaking out the scissors ✂️...just in case. By the way, loving the Jarrah and have popped it on my list of future makes. 👍
I was thinking the same thing. A silver or gold belt to break up the black and see ❤
I agree with you I think a top would be great out of the dress. It is beautiful and beautiful fabric. Love the shopping trip. ❤
Mmm Im with you maybe a top. Or yeah dress would need to be short
Have a fab time xxxx
Well done, you did so well! So good to let go of the things we don't need.I have many more pdfs than printed patterns but so many I haven't made 😂😂
Definitely know what you mean about the dress I made an hope dress by style arc I loved the fabric but oh my goodness the dress definitely wore me I was drowning in it lol i think the dress would make a lovely blouse xx
Ruan I love your expressions when you try to figure out what is in the calender. You are so fun to watch. Thank you for sharing.
Love the dress.Plan to change, suggest a tunic length, longer in back. With silver accessories
I vote for a blouse!🤔😀
The black dress, great for a statement belt. Try it first!
Dress finished well ❤
So, I love the fabric of the dress, and I think as a dress it has potential. I think if it was a little bit shorter, and if you did ties like the Saltwater slip dress, it could really look nice. I think short with tights would also look very mod and cute. And, of course you could always cut it into a top. The fabric is soooooooo good!
I agree that it seems to be wearing you, I think maybe try chopping it to your next fave skirt length. See how you feel, but I do think it will look lush as a blouse.
It is a lot of fabric, so maybe if you are to make it again, maybe try it with a belt? If that look suits you 😊 you could always make a belt if you have enough of this fabric left. Cinch it in a little. Good luck, its lovely fabric! X
I actually just made a dress as a toile for some "precious" fabric. Glad I did, because it looks like a nightgown! But I've decided to sew 6 thin vertical outward facing pleats in a row from the under bust to right below my natural waist, and same in the back to give it some shape and style. I think that will save it!
Not my favourite dress pattern to start with but I think it would make a fantastic top and with all that fabric left you could make a really fancy at leisure suit..
I agree with you, it would look beautiful as a top, and the fabric is so lovely it would be a shame to waste it. X
That's so funny. I've been to B&M tonight. I just paused it to sort the dog out. Pressed play and for a moment I thought it was my shopping at the tills! I discovered and bought some cola chewits too!
Definitely make a top from it. Sometimes it just doesn’t work and it’s usually when it’s been made for a specific occasion. I’m sure you will love it in the end. Loving following your Vlogmas journey. Enjoy your party tomorrow.
Yes go for the top option 🐾🐾
Could you sew a channel for elastic at the waist and use the extra fabric for a frill at the bottom to lengthen the dress? A blouse would be lovely too.
I think I’d agree, currently the dress is wearing you, that fabric is GORGEOUS though and in general suits you very well. Maybe try cutting it like a mini-dress (10cm above knee or thereabouts) + a chunky bright red statement necklace, black tights and it’d be a stunner 🤩 give it a try, if it doesn’t work you can still make it into a blouse and that will be a winner for sure 😉 good luck and looking forward to seeing the result 🥰
I agree too with your thoughts about the dress Ruan. I think a blouse would look better on you.
A broken toilet seat huh?!!! Real life strikes again! I love the new mug! I’ll check Ruth out. I need a mug with my FB Page (and upcoming YT channel on it).
The black is so striking on you!! I’d say a top would be fab.. or could you throw a really sparkly statement belt on it to break up the dress? I’m sure you’ll figure it out ❤
What about a narrow red belt . It’s the black sucking all the swing out of it. Yes a short/long hem might work.
I think a dress with a high neck, fairly long sleeves, and that much volume, needs to be short to balance it out, so you're not just swamped in fabric. Otherwise, it does give glitzy cassock vibes 😜.
Even before you said it, I was thinking high-low hem. I'd make the front really quite short, as high as you dare (at least a few inches above the knee). It'd then look great with tights, especially with black patterned tights, to really make a feature of it. (Try those animal print ones for extra 🐆 🐆 🐆)
You've got nothing to lose playing around with the hemline, because if it isn't for for, you can then just go ahead and chop it to blouse length, and then you'd have a smashing top.
You have a good plan cutting it short to make a blouse. Unfortunately it does overwhelm you as is. Perhaps the cut off fabric could be used in the black bag you plan to make. Have a wonderful Christmas with your sweet family, Ruan!
Have to agree with you - I would shorten to tunic length, add a belt and wear with black jeans and boots
Great vlog as always you got loads for the money in B&M. Agree about the dress it’s too much make t into a top then you can pair with bright trousers ❤❤
The fabric is really nice but yes - make it into a top and you can wear it with some skinny jeans and some heeled boots.
It’s real frustrating when things don’t turn out the way you expect.
Hi Ryan, sadly I agree the dress seems a bit overwhelming but before you cut it into a blouse, I think you should try taking it in down both sides and if that doesn’t work then cut it into a top. Good luck
Merry Christmas 🎄
Aww you cheeky little devil 😈. Thank you 😘
@ he he he 😘
Ooh, I could do with one of those wax things. 👍
Agree, it does not flatter you. Maybe needs a belt, or a belt that ties jn front with a bow but goes around you inside through like suits in the waist?
Love your videos! I'm new to garment sewing, so not sure how hard this would be, but how about release pleats in the front? Check out pictures of the Closet Core Crew Quartz dress. Good luck finding a solution - the fabric is lovely!
Cut it to above the knee and style it before you chop it to a blouse. You can always cut it again
You are brave and encouraging to show us your dress Ruan. So disappointing when what we make doesn't suit us. A blouse in red would showcase your beautiful personality better. Wearing just all black is a hard one. xx Karen
I have been so enjoyed watching your videos. The black dress is beaututiful (such great fabric). You might take in in the sides and shorten it to make it feel better. See you in the next video. Happy Sewing!
A memory vlog came up today. You were so excited for 5k subscribers, 3 years ago. Wow now over 16k, well done your style is so popular. X
Oh no way! 🥰🥰
Yep, lob it off.
Dress would look lovely as a top or a mini dress!
I think a shorter knee length version would look really different … maybe try that and if you’re still not happy do the blouse. Beautiful fabric x
You do make me giggle. I immediately thought of a priest’s gown the way it is, definitely a top though with skinny jeans and boots will look fab, the sleeves and fabric look lovely X
Would love the dress as a top, looks a bit frumpy as a dress,( hope that doesn’t sound rude).You,ve made a lovely job, , maybe a short dress with black tights would look lovely.😌x.
It’s a good maternity dress xxx
I see what you meen about the dress. The top i gorgeous. I think a short dress with leggins would look nice, but if you dont like that, a long blouse? It will be fine either way, because the fabric is beautiful and the fit is perfect on the top 👍
Its cute, the fabric is lovely. I do think its rather shapless as is tho, not as flattering as it could be. It needs a visible waistline. Maybe you can add a channel at your waist to add ties or a belt, or elastic? (Im imagining the closet core sallie maxi) Chopping it to a top would be pretty cute too. I do love the scoop in the back.
I’d like to see that dress/ top with some long, glittery necklaces, to break up the black. Love the kitties.
OMG. I had such a great laugh….OH SIMBA….one of the best feelings, a big happy laugh. Tigger also gets honourable mention. ❤️ the cat’s video bomb. Thank you.
I say chop that dress into a blouse. I think it'll be so cute and more of your vibe.
I think a shorter version would look really different … maybe try that and if you’re still not happy do the blouse. Beautiful fabric x
The dress would look great as a top over a pencil skirt pr skinny jeans in animal print
Hi. Think you are right about the dress as it is wearing you. I think shortening it and wearing it with black tights is worth a try. Still lots of black but would see more of your shape. I would also try it with a long silver or sparkly necklace to break up the black and again define your shape a little. Jude x
The dress looks a little matronly from the front. I agree cutting it to a top you will love it!!
I would try a silver belt with the dress before cutting
Think you need some sparkly brooch on it to break it up a little. ❤
I agree that a blouse or shorter dress would help but also I think the neckband gives the appearance of drawing a black line near your face. Could you possibly take the neck band off and use a button closure for the back. Also a V neckline might show more skin which will soften the front of the blouse or dress and reduce the heavy appearance of the garment. The fabric is gorgeous hope it can be reconfigured.
I vote for a blouse! I think that would look much better on you as a blouse. You could always try a belt, maybe in a bright color, to give it a bit of shape at the waist? The top part is quite lovely!
If you add a colourful necklace or scarf eg red, it. Will make all the difference 😊
Hi Ruan. I can't get the idea of adding a wide black velvet belt/sash to the black dress. It would bring in the waist and the texture of the tone-on-tone black fabric against the deep-as-night black velvet would probably play together elegantly. I hope you get some breathing space soon, Antonia
It gives me Wednesday Adams vibes. I say go for a top.
Make it into a top! Would look great. Does not hang right for a dress!
I love the dress actually, you could wear it with gold or silver shoes or boots.
A necklace would be nice with the dress. ❤
I can understand what you mean about the dress - I think it needs to sit just above the knee and be worn with heeled boots or shoes. You have to be comfy to be confident in it. Beautiful fabric that cannot be wasted. Hope your loo seat was fixed- made me laugh😂😂😂. Lynne
Loving vlogmas 🎄 Thank you for doing it , it such a gift !! As for the dress !! I would for sure try shortening it !! You are gorgeous in anything but try shorter or maybe a belt ?
Cut to a short dress 1st, then if you still don't like it, cut it into a top. The fabric really suits you x
I agree that it’s not the most flattering dress but I think it’s the colour. I think it could work as a top with black jeans maybe. I also think it’s the length which is a bit old fashioned on you. Sometimes it is just the length and the tights shoes or boots to add. Try pinning up a section to see the right length for you. Well done with the pyjamas. The boys will be pleased. 😊
I really like the dress - I think the problem might be it looks like a lot of solid black on you. If you have some bright chunky jewellery - necklace and bangles it would make all the difference. I love the dress as it is but I think you should make it into a blouse so you will wear it but it has a beautiful drape and is very classic. The cut out back is stunning but if you don't feel right change it to something you will like more. 😎❤
Certainly no longer than knee length for the dress - the black is very formal looking. In a loud cotton fabric for summer it would probably look totally different in the long length.
I can see what you mean about your black dress. How about making a sliver or dull sliver sequin removable collar. Take in the side seams at waist line only giving you more waist definition. Have you tried it with a belt ? style it up with bright earrings and neckless. Love your videos, joy all the way with count down to Christmas ❤
Belt with black dress and red lippy? Or fish eye darts to give it some shape? Or keep it to wear with a black coat for funerals?
When I saw you in your black dress I thought"Vicar of Dibley". You're right, the dress wears you. I think it would make a cute blouse, though!
Ruan wear some big blingy jewellery with the black dress. Ie a cluster of diamontes near the neck or beeds. Black dresses have a habit of looking drab until you accessorise. Try it