KIMONO STYLE DRESS | VOGUE 1735
Building a new wardrobe that accommodates your personal style should also make you smile. This dress does exactly that, and I’m calling it my sunshine dress. When I get out of my car in the mornings to walk at the park, I smile because it feels so good to be in the sun. My new dress reminds me of a ray of sunshine at the park, but all dressed up. Let’s get into the details.
Pattern Information
Vogue 9253 has been re-issued as VOGUE 1735. It is a semi-fitted kimono style dress with a deep v-neckline, center back zipper, and self ties. The dress comes in two lengths, midi and maxi. It is available in paper copy only in Sizes XS – XXL. The company rates the pattern as VERY EASY, and I agree. If you are a beginner with basic sewing skills, you should be able to complete the project. There are six pattern pieces needed to sew the dress. The instructions are well written and simple enough to follow along, with helpful illustrations.
Let’s take a look at some closeup photos of the dress.
Fabric Information
The pattern suggests Crepe Back Satin, Rayon Challis, Lightweight Broadcloth, and Lightweight Jersey. I used this beautiful Crinkle Rayon that I purchased from JoAnn Fabrics some time ago. It is lightweight with a lovely drape, making it an excellent choice for the dress.
Inside the Garment
I used my BABY LOCK CHORUS sewing machine for all the seams, darts, and pleats. The seam allowances were finished with my BABY LOCK VIBRANT SERGER. Here are some closeup photos of the inside.
Notions Information
The dress calls for one 22″ zipper, one hook and eye closure, and 1/2″ single fold bias tape.
Alterations Information
I cut a size small and raised the neckline for more coverage and modesty. This is my second time sewing the dress, so the pattern alteration was already in place. I raised my neckline by 4″ and sewed down the opening to prevent it from gaping open during wear. I’ll be sharing how I raised the neckline in the “BEHIND THE SCENES” video on my YouTube channel tomorrow.
I eliminated the self ties from my dress and opted for a self covered belt with buckle. I love the way the belt looks with the dress. I’m a big fan of self covered belts if you haven’t noticed yet. I purchased the large buckle from TEXTILE DISCOUNT OULET in Chicago last June when I attended Chicago Frocktails. Unfortunately, they don’t have the buckles on the website, but they do have lots of fabrics. The website doesn’t do the store justice though. They have a large selection of fabrics and notions. So, if you’re ever in the area I recommend visiting the store in person.
If you’d like to learn how to make your own self covered belt, check out my STEP-BY-STEP TUTORIAL on YouTube. I walk you through the entire process of designing a belt using your own waist measurement. Make it as wide or narrow as you desire. Your custom belts will elevate your garments to a high fashion look and add a touch of elegance.
Styling Options
The dress speaks for itself, so I didn’t have to add much. I accessorized with a pair of cream colored pumps (they go with everything) and a cute little handbag with floral embroidery. I love how the blue purse brings out the blue florals in the dress fabric. I’m wearing a silver necklace and bracelet from, and a pair of my favorite big hoop earrings.
I stopped wearing pointed toe shoes for a long time while I was dealing with inflammation in my knees. I didn’t think I would ever wear them again, but I kept them around for photo shoots and occasional outings where the majority of wearing time involved sitting. Once my knees healed, I put on a pair for a photo shoot one day and realized that I could wear them longer. What a pleasant surprise. While I still don’t do a lot of walking and standing in my pointed toe heels, I’m happy to be able to wear them a bit more.
Styling Option 2
When I pulled the fabric from my stash for the dress, I knew I had several pairs of shoes that would look nice. Here is the second shoe option. I’ve had these strappy high heel sandals for years and I don’t like them anymore. The straps don’t stay in place unless you tie them really tight, and that’s not comfortable. I’ve held on to them for a while but decided it’s time to say goodbye, because I never wear them. As you’re reading this post, the shoes are in the donation box. I think they look okay with the dress, but I actually prefer the cream pump.
Styling Option 3
The third shoe option is this chunky platform heel that brings out the blue florals in the dress. These are more comfortable, but I prefer the cream pumps over these too.
What do you think?
Do you wear high heels? Which shoe option do you like best with this dress? I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
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This Post Has 55 Comments
Oh Anita dear , the dress is absolutely beautiful .. and the pictures are everything so clear and showing the details !!
love love love your dress
I love your dress and all the shoes options. I am partial to blue but they all look nice.
Wow definitely getting this! Especially with the how to alter the neckline. Nobody wants to see my natural aging boobs!! 😂
Loving the fabric choice as always. And belt making skills too are an absolute hoot!
Another beautiful dress!!! I love the pink stitching. It elevates the look. I appreciate you sharing the inside of the dress. Thank you for sharing.
Absolutely Stunning, Anita. I love how you paired the beautiful blue handbag with the dress and shoes! You are an excellent teacher and MODEL. Love, Kimberley
Thank you so much, Kimberley!💛
Well, at least this time I don’t have to go to the store! LOL!!!!!!
😂🤣😂 Too funny, Carol!
I love your dress! I agree, the cream shoes look best with it. I thought I would like the yellow better, but I think it’s just too much yellow.
I loved to wear heels, I loved the way heels made my legs look, but my feet don’t agree! My feet ache after wearing heels for a short time and then for days afterward (and I buy very good, well fitting shoes.)
I really appreciate all the photos you’ve taken of your makes. I learn so much from seeing how everything is finished. Unfortunately, I sometimes have trouble visualizing techniques ; so the photos are invaluable to me. That being said, I have been sewing for 57 years, making many of my own clothes and most of my children’s clothes for years. My children are all tall and long bodied so it was very difficult to buy clothes that kept their middles covered!
Thanks so much!
Oh, wow! You’ve been sewing for a long time. I LOVE hearing from those who have so many years of experience. What a valuable skill to possess when you have tall children who are hard to fit from stores.
I thought the yellow shoes was too much also. I think he cream pumps tones it down.
I love how this turned out. Thanks so much for making a video on closing up that neckline! Whew! I like the first pair of shoes if you are going to church or a dressy brunch. The third pair are great if the occasion is more casual. I never realized the middle pair would cause so much trouble. I’ve seen them at shoe salons in stores but never even tried them on. I broke my right foot a couple summers ago and so high shoes are no longer an option for me. It’s ok because I have way too many shoes!
Thank you so much, Maureen. I see women wearing the scrappy sandal heels and they look cute. I’ve had two pairs and those straps just got on my nerves. 😂
You definitely know how to celebrate National Sewing Month. This dress is gorgeous and looks great on you! I understand why it makes you smile. Your blogs are so helpful; I pick up tips and inspiration from each one. Keep shining, Anita!!
Thank you so much, De! Makes me smile to know you find the blogs helpful.
I adore this dress. I am really liking that yellow shoe with it. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you Joann!
Hi Anita,
Sorry about the confusion about ‘trainers’ – I think you may call them sneakers in the US? I’m English (living in Scotland) and never gave it a thought! It made me chuckle!
Kindest regards,
Jill
Ooohhh! 😂 I’ve probably heard the term before and forgot. Thank you for clarifying.
I think the nude shoes provide a more balanced sillhoette.
Thank you, Angela! 💛
Hi Anita,
What a beautiful dress – you look gorgeous! You look wonderful in that sunshine yellow. I think all the shoes look good with the dress but, for me, the cream heels look the best. I love high heels, but can’t wear them for very long these days. I am so pleased that you didn’t wear trainers with the dress, which seems to be the trend at the moment!
I think the self-covered belt with that lovely silver buckle looks fabulous and I am going to watch your tutorial on how to make one. As always, I appreciate the photos of inside the dress to see how it should be done!
Kindest regards,
Jill
Hi Jill! Okay, now I have to go google “trainers” because I don’t know what that is. 😂 I’m really glad you appreciate the inside details. Have a wonderful weekend, Jill. 💛
The Kimono Style Dress is gorgeous. I have both patterns you shown but have not made them yet. I love all your tutorials and the details on your blogs. Thank you for sharing. I love to sew and happy to be among the incredible artists/ seamstresses in the community. Again you are a Gem 💎 ❤️
Oh, Doris! Thank you so much for your kinds words and presence here. I love to hear that my people are enjoying the blogs. It really makes my heart smile because I put a lot of work into them. Thank you for being here. 💛
Wow! The dress looks fantastic on you. Looking at the sketches on the pattern envelope, I would not have bought the pattern myself. I need to rethink how I look at fashion drawings. The cut and color of the dress is really flattering on you. Makes me want to make a new dress!
Yes, it’s fun to look at the line drawings and imagine what the garment can become. Thank you Sue.💛
I cannot tell you enough how much I love this dress. I will tell you I would not have bought this pattern because of neckline however seeing your neckline style I will purchase this pattern and love yellow.
Yaaayyy, Monica! I’m so glad you’ve been inspired to give the dress a try. I absolutely love it with the altered neckline and it’s super comfortable. 💛
The only thing sunnier than this beautiful dress is your smile. You look “wearing” both. I like the blue purse and sandals with the dress best. As are all your self-made clothing, it is sewn to perfection, inside and out. I may give this pattern a try.
Thank you so much, Eileen! 💛
This dress is absolutely gorgeous, Anita. I love all of your makes but yellow is my favorite color so I’m really impressed with this one. It looks lovely on you. You truly do all things well with the talent that you have been blessed with!
Oh, thank you so much, Marie! I LOVE sewing with all my heart. 💛
Your sunshine dress makes me smile. It is so nice to look at and you wear it well. I love it with the pumps. Thanks for sharing another beautifully made garment.
Thank you Hettie! I’m so glad the sunshine dress makes you smile too. 🤗
Another beautifully made garment! The inside is so lovely and tidy!
I’ve never seen this pattern. I’m hoping I can find it.
Thanks for the inspiration!
Thank you, Tishana! I’m glad you like the dress. If you don’t find it at your local fabric store, use the link in the blog post to purchase it online.
I love your dress, and the accessories that you have chosen!
Thank you Delores!💛
Hello Anita,
I love this pattern and the yellow print looks fabulous on you. Thank you for sharing. Stay blessed!
Thank you, Trish! You stay blessed too. 💛
Beautiful as always. Love the cream color pumps and the Blue ones also.
Thank you Jo Ellen! 💛
Yes! I love it! I love it when you come through with another beautiful piece. You slayed that dress! I love every look with the pairing of each shoe. I believe I can make this dress. I’m a plus beauty so I hope my size is available. Thanks again for sharing your talent and being an inspiration🤗
Oh, thank you so much, Melinda! I sure hope it comes in your size. 🤗
Hi Anita
I got scared when I could not open the email that shows your beautiful yellow dress. Then I exhaled and knew you would be alerted about the glitch. I love each shoe selection you featured. I know you said your yellow shoes are no longer in your closet, but I like the coordination of the color of the shoe with the beautiful yellow in the dress. My next choice is the blue shoe and the blue bag. Love your posts. Barb
Barb!!!!! Every time I mess up the link, I tell myself, “I can’t believe I did it AGAIN!” 😂 I’m so happy that our community always alerts me so I can fix it. I’m so glad you love the blog posts. That really makes my heart smile.💛🤗💛
I am confused about rayon and so I have never sewn with it. Can it be machine washed? Did you wash this fabric before sewing the dress?
Hi Donna Lee! Oh, yes indeed! Rayon can be washed and I ALWAYS wash mine before sewing my garments. It’s one of my favorite fabrics. Now, go out and get you some rayon and enjoy. 🤗
simply gorgeous, can dress up or down depending on the shoes and purse 🙂
Yes, absolutely! I love that it can be styled casual or dressy. 🤗
Lucky you Anita, you can wear yellow and it looks fabulous on you. It is not a color I can wear even if I like it. I guess I just have to admire it on you! Love the dress and I am sorry to say I love the yellow shoes best. Although I do hear you on shoes. I can’t stand shoes that irritate my feet. Keep doing what you are doing, l love seeing your makes and look forward to getting your emails.
Hi Karen! Yes, yellow is not everyone’s favorite. 😂 Wearing an uncomfortable shoe is like being stabbed with each step. I’m so happy to hear you look forward to the emails. Thank you for being part of my community, Karen. 💛
I love the yellow and blue straps sandals the best!!! You are beautiful!
Thank you so much, Londa! 💛💛💛