A few things I've done

I used a old "Old navy" knit dress for this. I basically res-used the shape of the top and then added a skirt to it.

Here MEC wanted a twirling dress as she put it "Mama could you make a twirly dress that twirls bigger than Alma's". I thought I had enough fabric to make one but unfortunately not. The twirly bigger than Alma's dress will be for later. In the meantime we have a hint of carribean summer in San Diego.

This is my first attempt at shirring. When I made the first half of the dress and I wrinkled everything with steam I giggled like a little girl. I wanted to add sleeves to that dress but that was denied by the person who is going to wear it. I also wanted to add a big pocket to add a bit of color. This also was denied but I may make it anyways....