FOUNDATIONS REVEALED COMPETITION ENTRY
Lady Astronaut’s Blue Dress
(click images to to enlarge)
Outline the story …
Dr. Elma Wexler York is The Lady Astronaut in the sci-fi novel The Calculating Stars by Mary Robinette Kowal. The story is set in an alternate 1950s America where a meteor struck the US, setting off an extinction event. This kick starts the space race, and Elma is at the forefront. Elma is strong and smart, but is not without vulnerability. She goes on a science education show but is struck with near-crippling anxiety, and is constantly needing to prove herself to her colleagues and superiors.
Elma is also Jewish, which I relate to. Her relationship with her Judaism is different from my own, but is one of the better representations I've read recently.
Elma wears a blue dress to the science education show, one of the handful of times her outfit is noted in the narrative. I knew this dress would be flattering yet modest, due to both the character and the era. I drew inspiration from the shows the Queen's Gambit (Beth's dresses) and the Good Place (Janet's outfits).
Outline the construction…
I used Simplicity pattern 2247, view C to make this dress; this was done largely on machine. This was the first pattern I've ever done and the first fitted garment I've ever made. This was perhaps a bit ambitious, as virtually every step had to be learned and gave me difficulties. I learned how to read pattern instructions, cut and mark pattern pieces, fit the bodice, sew princess seams, stay stitch, under stitch, clip seams, apply interfacing, insert a zipper, and use a zigzag stitch to finish the interior seams. I googled most of those terms to learn what to do. The only things I knew how to do going into this project were sewing a straight line, hemming, felling the bodice seams, and attaching a hook and eye.
I learned about fabric weight and type, and that all projects take longer than you think they will.
Note: I did not make the blouse.
Looks great! The fit is wonderful especially. Your post on Facebook inspired me to enter too: thank you!
I love Elma in the calculating stars! This dress is a great style for her and it’s very nicely finished. You did a great job!
Ambitious, yes, and you really made it work. Best of luck x
What a beautiful dress. I would not believe it is your first forray into clothes making. Very impressive. Congratulations!
I’m so glad to see the Lady Astronaut here, and you’ve certainly done her justice!
Well done! Very cute outfit and great inspiration sources!
NIcely done! I love the drawing of inspiration from other characters who speak to you, and the midnight blue is so on theme.
You made a very good choice and did a very good job. I am looking forward to seeing what you make next.
Well done, that’s a great color blue for an astronaut! I love it! Thank you!