Proper fit important for elegant gown

Dear Vicki: I have a formal occasion coming up — that is, I need a long gown. I need your help finding a pattern. I am large and definitely do not want strapless, or even sleeveless. I want so much to look nice, and I feel really lost. Can you find me a pattern and recommend the fabric I should look for to make the pattern you suggest? Forever grateful. — Miriam S.

Dear Miriam: Here is the pattern I am thinking you will like. It is Butterick 6146. This incredibly elegant gown might do well for you.

The seams provide plenty of places to add or nip in for a proper fit — and, incidentally, “proper fit” does NOT mean to make it tight. The most important thing for fitting this dress is to make the waist area at your waist. So measure from the shoulder and check whether you need to lengthen or shorten the bodice.

Choose a drapey, soft fabric — it could even be a knit. Also be sure about the neckline, because you don’t want to make a mistake and have the bra you will wear with the dress show.

I strongly recommend you shop for a long-line foundation. Most of us don’t have one if we are not used to evening wear. But trust me, it’s essential, and you won’t regret the purchase. It will make you feel your best.

Here’s an old column with a new answer:

Dear Eunice Farmer: I recently cut out a pattern that specified each piece being cut separately. I made a horrible mistake of cutting one piece without flipping it, so I have two right sides! How can I avoid this in the future? Diane G.

Dear Diane: When it is necessary to cut any part of the pattern in a single layer, it is worthwhile to cut a duplicate pattern piece.

Now, for what to do now: Many looks today are made with odd seaming and sometimes even contrasts. So try to have fun with your disaster and sew pieces of your fabric together and then recut the mistake out of your new patched piece of fabric.

Each week I share a reader’s tip and thank him or her with a set of 100 fine English hand-sewing needles from John James. This week the tip is from Peggy Craig, of Norfolk, Va. She writes:

“To assist in threading a needle — either machine or hand — grab anything white (a piece of cloth, paper, etc.), position it behind the eye of the needle, and you can instantly see the hole clearly.”