This is what happens when you need to make a toile and have blown your budget for the dress on italian silk and gorgeous trim. This bargain-bin green calico did the trick nicely, though. I actually quite like it.

I’m not always good about mocking up with a toile, but a wedding dress is one garment that warrants it, so I took the time. I’m glad I did, because I realized the hem is a bit shorter than I need, and the neckline could do with a bit more coverage.

The pattern is an old Badgley Mischka for Vogue (#1806) that I’ve had for years. I made it up once before, in cheap red satin for a halloween costume. I was a dead Jayne Mansfield. The dress fitted like a dream, but was unfortunately soiled with sticky stage blood.

The curved seams fit the body amazingly well. It’s certainly one of the best patterns I’ve made.

See more posts about about handcrafting my wedding!