the Limberlost dress
Have you ever read the novel A Girl of the Limberlost? Written by Gene Stratton Porter at the turn of the century, it tells the tale of Elnora Comstock, a girl who lives and collects moths at the edge of Indiana's Limberlost Swamp. Longing to educate herself and yet emotionally estranged from her mother, Elnora portrays with a more mature range of emotions than other heroines she might be compared to, giving her tale a haunting and bittersweet tone.
I don't know what it is about it - the old-fashioned drama of the long bishop sleeves, the pale green color reminiscent of the Luna moths that Elnora collects, or merely the nature-lust that this time of year so easily excites in me - but I've named my latest dress the Limberlost dress in honor of the book.
Actually, the pattern is one of 4 vintage maternity patterns which I've inherited from my mother. I'd already been eying this pattern when Jenny posted about being inspired by her mom's maternity patterns. And after seeing the Lyell fall '07 collection, I knew it had to be made. Although the pattern is 3 sizes too small for me, the extra fullness in the body meant it required only a little altering through the sleeve and bust area. All the seams are finished with either French seams or bias trim. I don't care if volume is going out, I absolutely love this dress! (More photos here.)
In other news, I find myself with very little time to enjoy the beautiful fall that is emerging around me. I made up my mind some time ago to settle with temporary employment for the next year, while I try to make my way into the world of theatre and costuming. So in the meantime I've been giving private sewing lessons, and I have just finally been approved to substitute teach. I've also been coming up with some new designs of my cabled bags, toying with the idea of offering them for sale. Whatever comes of it, you'll be sure to hear of it here!
This last shot embodies the best of autumn for me - dappled sunlight, brilliant color, and a good book. What does your perfect autumn day look like?