Princess Dresses

The other day, Deena and I were talking about a family float we did 25 years ago -- the theme was Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs. We thought it might be fun to do that again so our GRANDKIDS could be in a summer parade. Deena's 5-year old granddaughter Avery piped up and said, with a big smile on her face, "I HAVE A BELLE DRESS."

My sister Deena is a much better seamstress than me. If sewing were restaurants -- Deena is four star fine dining -- and I am a McDonald's drive-through. HEY -- WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT. Both in our abilities AND our choices. AND THAT'S OKAY?? (Actually, some days -- it's the whole point....)

When Deena's granddaughters wanted Princess dresses -- she already had the PERFECT PATTERN. Since she has made many bridesmaid dresses, flower girl dresses, etc.


Then she went shopping for the PERFECT FABRIC...

Next -- she spent several days sewing the difficult, shiny fabric to get it all just right. She used a large doll to fit the bodice. Can you see the modification that will turn it into a BELLE dress?? (yes, the capelet).

Avery was DELIGHTED with her Belle dress. And big sister Madeline was also thrilled with her Cinderella Princess Dress...This was Christmas 2011....

Because of Deena's sewing skills -- she was able (with some elastic here and there) to make the dresses one size too big. So, one year later -- the girls are still wearing and enjoying their Princess dresses...

GREAT IDEA, AVERY...I think we have enough sewing-Grandmas in this family to make some kick-ass costumes....and maybe win a BEST FLOAT contest in a small town summer parade. YOU ARE RIGHT -- we can START WITH your Princess Dresses...