Sewing Bee series 6 episode 9 – wardrobe ideas

We’re back with a new Great British Sewing Bee update. We were very sad to see Mark leaving the Sewing Bee last week, but, as they say, the show must go on. And with only four contestants remaining, the theme for episode 9 was The Movies! We loved seeing so much glitz and glamour and all the contestants did exceptionally well.

The episode kicked off with the pattern challenge which included making a dress inspired by Marilyn Monroe in The Seven Year Itch, then the contestants had to transform futuristic scrapyard fabrics into new science fiction-inspired outfits, before making a made-to-measure flapper dress to fit their model.

To keep you posted on all things Great British Sewing Bee we will share our pattern picks every week here on the blog, so you can re-create the fabulous ‘Bee’ looks for your own homemade wardrobe! You can also browse the whole collection of specially curated sewing bee patterns with a special discount offer on selected patterns

Challenge 1: Sew a dress inspired by Marilyn Monroe.

The first challenge of week 9 was to sew a halter neck dress inspired by the iconic dress Marilyn Monroe wore in the movie The Seven Year Itch. The pattern featured a bagged out halter neck bodice, 8 intricate bust pleats, pre-pleated fabric for the skirt and an invisible zipper.

Are you up for the challenge? Have a look at the designs below for some fabulous Marilyn Monroe dress inspiration!

Pattern: Vogue 8727.

V8727 is a beautiful close-fitting halter neck dress that ties together at the neck. The dress is fully lined and has a shaped waistband for a better fit. Plus, let’s not forget about the all important pockets! Choose from different bodice and skirt variations to make it fit your style.

Pattern:Butterick 6682.

Straight from 1952, Butterick 6682 is unlined and it features a close-fitting halter bodice and a hook and eye closure. The horsehair-lined hem is finished with purchased bias tape. The pattern also includes a little jacket that closes with thread-linked buttons, and has shaped cuffs finished with bias tape.

Pattern: Butterick 5209.

With Butterick 5209 from 1947 you get choose from a halter neck or cap sleeve dress. The skirt finishes below mid-knee, closes with a side zipper, and features a flared, gathered skirt. The fitted bodice has gathers under the bust and is self lined.

 

The below patterns are not quite Marilyn Monroe’s dress from The Seven Year Itch, but they are stunning designs that are definitely worth considering if you loved the halter neck style!

Pattern: Vogue 1534.

This gorgeous gown is close-fitting through the bodice and has a full floor length skirt. The contrasting bodice features a halter neck bodice and is fully lined.

Pattern: Vogue 1546.

Vogue 1546 is a lined halter dress with stunning design details and a grosgrain ribbon for the neck tie. The back band features a visible zipper and the pleated skirt closes with an invisible sip. This pattern includes separate pieces for A, B, C and D cup sizes.

Pattern: Simplicity 9097.

Simplicity 9097 is designed by Mimi G and includes this dress and a jumpsuit. Some of the details include princess darts, big pockets, a lapel collar, a button front and back ties.

Pattern: Simplicity 8645.

Jump back in time with halter and sun top pattern from the 1950’s. This set of three halters features a figure molding midriff sections in front and a back button closing. Some of the design details include: a halter neckline, a Peter Pan collar, a softly gathered bust line, a pointed collar, a square neckline. Mix and match these details to create your own vintage top!

Pattern: Vogue 9259.

A halter neckline with a twist! Vogue 9259 is actually a jumpsuit and romper pattern, but almost looks like a dress due to the fabulously big trouser pieces. The bodice is close-fitting with a halter that ties at the back. Choose to make a shorter above the knee version or go for midi or maxi length.

 

Challenge 3: Sew a made-to-measure flapper dress inspired by films like The Great Gatsby.

The four remaining contestants had to go back to the 1920’s and create a flapper dress inspired by films like The Great Gatsby. The flapper dress is comprised of a slip that sits under a sheer glitter dress. Patrick Grant and Esme Young were expecting to see immaculate stitching, and elements of bead work or embellishment to adorn the dresses.

If you are inspired to create a flapper outfit yourself, then have a look at the patterns below. This will be a great basis for your Great Gatsby look!

Pattern: Simplicity 1770.

Like a typical flapper dress this pattern is straight with only bust darts to give it shape. Add a fringe to complete the look, as well as the head piece that included with the pattern.

Pattern: Simplicity 8573.

These flapper hats will take you back in time! Choose from the 5 designs that are included with Simplicity 8573 and stitch a fabulous headpiece. They’re available in sizes S (21″) M (22″) L (23″).