Help: looking for a perfect party dress ideas!

There is nothing more annoying than opening my wardrobe and discovering that I own zero fancy dresses that I made myself! The situation is rather critical because I am attending a wedding in June! Taking into account how slowly I sew, I’d call this an orange sewing alert!

The idea of sewing a party dress by myself is latent and dated. When I attended my first couture sewing class with Susan Khalje in Baltimore, I started sewing a fancy dress, however I never finished working on it. Being one of my few UFOs (“unfinished objects” for those who are wondering), I can’t force myself to finish it. Another reason why I want to make a party dress is that I’d love to be able to apply all the intricate stitches and techniques that I’ve learnt so far. Of course, I do use some of the couture techniques when sewing casual garments, but working on a formal dress would require more meticulous planning and use of elaborate skills. So I could put into practice good old sewing techniques as well as learn something new.

As for the ideal party dress, I’d like it to be a statement piece, but, at the same time, wearable in the sense of feeling comfortable. I’d love to be able to move freely in a dress. Instead of just bluntly selecting a pattern and then sharing with you the end result, I’d like to ask your opinion to help me choose the pattern. Pretty, pretty please!

If you are not new to sewing and have been reading sewing blogs for a while, you have probably seen this beautiful strapless Burda Style dress. Made by many talented seamstresses from all possible fabrics, this dress is at top of my list. It drew my attention for two reasons. I like that the dress is fitted, strapless and glorifies women’s body. Secondly, the pattern is begging to apply fancy sewing techniques: boning, waist-stay (and other stays), hand picked zipper not to mention fancy fabric that I can use for this project (lace, silks, brocade, you name it!).

This panelled dress, designed by my favourite Ralph Pink, offers all the comfort in the world! In this dress I could move without feeling restricted. While the strapless dress is fitted and sexy, I’d probably feel uncomfortable at moments. As for this pattern, it covers my shoulders (so there is no risk that the dress would slip down!),an d it features an interesting plunging neckline, suitable for fancy occasions. Every girl wants to show some skin when she’s out, doesn’t she? :)

A classic silhouette is always a trend. I’d always find an occasion to wear the Paris dress by Style Arc after the wedding! I exceptionally like the front darts!

I set eyes on yet another panelled dress from Burda Style. This dress has something futuristic and architectural about it. Made from a plain or contrasting fabric, from woven or stretch, it offers endless possibilities, don’t you think?

Now, I’d like to ask what do you think about these dresses? Which one deserves five months of my attention? Would you trade some comfort for pretty design? Or would you rather ensure you are safe in a garment you make?