I made this.
My friend Kara is one of those magical, enviable gals who exudes style, sass and sophistication. Even in the record-breaking Seattle summer heat wave...even 9 months pregnant...she is the coolest cucumber I've ever met. When I saw her rocking the skinniest of stilettos at her baby shower I knew this girl was going to be one hot mama.
Well, Kara is about to give birth in 2.5 seconds and I just couldn't picture her in one of those shabby, cheerless hospital gowns. She needed something with elegance and character. As often happens in my brain, excitement precludes common sense and I blurted out, I-can-make-you-a-fancy-hospital-gown-Kara!
A seamstress I am not. My sewing experience is limited to pillow cases, curtain panels and, and, and, that's it. I do not know what I was thinking. Kara's style is more graceful, smart and luxurious - less homemade, Holly Hobbie. But, to my surprise, she took me up on the offer and I had to learn how to sew, fast.
A friend directed me to this free pattern and I started from there. I lengthened the sleeves a bit and changed the neckline because sewing ignorance is often coupled with sewing arrogance, I've found.
I also added a grosgrain ribbon that I'm hoping will give it a sort of empire waist-line. The archetypal silhouette for those with a pregnancy belly.
I used this fun, retro-inspired Amy Butler fabric. Along with everyone else in the free world, I am obsessed with her designs. Vintage-y yet modern. Does anyone buy fabric that isn't Amy Butler? I don't know why one would.
The gown has snaps down the back for the blessed epidural and across each shoulder for hungry newborns.
All kidding aside, I'm quite pleased with myself. It's not perfect, but I think this project turned out well.
I hope she likes it.
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