300 dollar Betsy Johnson Dress

**Cymbaline** · 05-19-2008, 06:02 PM

Ok I think it's a rip off to pay 300.00 dollars for this dress but I think it's very, very cute and because it looks so easy to make I'm going to make it myself.

I'm seriously thinking about just using a tank top pattern for the top and sewing the "skirt" part of the dress to it and letting the material drop from above the chest. The sheer material can be sewed so it crinkles where it meets the tank top part.

I have two problems trying to copy this dress so I hope someone can help

First I don't know what the outside material is called. I can tell it has a sheer material over a lining and it's the name of the sheer material I need. Is it or could it be called "Chiffon"?

Second the little flowers that dot the top of the dress, does anyone know if something similar could be purchased? They look like little lace flowers which are attached to the dress with a bead.

Bottom

Thanks for all your help!

**FrugalMomof3** · 05-19-2008, 06:09 PM

It is very pretty but no way am I paying $300 for it, when you get done making it I would love to see pics.

As for the material, I would think it's chiffon but cant be sure, either way it would look identical if you use chiffon and the flowers sequins on the back look like something you can buy as is and add a jewel to the center.

**Jamauk** · 05-19-2008, 07:19 PM

I love it love it love it!!! I do agree that it would be so easy to make - as for the flowers, I think you could find those at a craft shop...I can't wait to see pictures!!

**MomToTwoBoys** · 05-19-2008, 10:34 PM

I am so not a dress woman but man, that is one cute dress!

**acidcookie** · 05-19-2008, 11:00 PM

Super cute! I'm excited to see the remake. I think chiffon may be stiffer than what I see here? Maybe not.

If it rocks, I'm recruiting you to make my dress!

**kaykwilts** · 05-19-2008, 11:43 PM

Good luck in your pursuit to make that dress.

**Frugal Nurse** · 05-20-2008, 07:18 AM

Wicked Cute!

The outer is called Chiffon the under is a silk layer.
http://www.bridallaceandfabric.co.uk...tid=0&cust=618

The flower buds you can purchase in the notions section... where they sell ribbon and such.

You will find a roll of flower buds that look like that. You snip them apart. I can not find a link- but I have seen them

Those are not sequens, those are rinestone type embellishments that are either sewn or glued on.
http://www.bridallaceandfabric.co.uk...tid=0&cust=618

You can find all these things in the bridal section of your quality fabric store.
If I had to put a cost on making this adorable dress- I would put it at about $75 max for a good quality fabric. As low as $20 for low quality (cheap imitation fabric) Either way- with the embellishments, you'll make it look fantastic.

Have fun!

**tbs727** · 05-20-2008, 08:38 AM

It is a very cute dress. I can't wait to see your version!

**santoria** · 05-21-2008, 09:14 AM

thats cute!

you can find all kinds of cute tank tops that have pretty embellishments and stuff, totally easy to stitch on the skirt part under the bust line

looks like chiffon with an under layer of silk or a heavier material so the chiffon swings and flutters.

**Cymbaline** · 05-23-2008, 10:05 AM

Thanks everyone for your help and feedback!!! Sorry I haven't responded sooner, I've been swamped at work.

**perSue** · 05-23-2008, 10:52 AM

wow anything LOOKS easy to make when it's 300$!!!

let us know how it turns out.

looks a little more challenging when you see the upclose pic's.
but doesnt look impossible.

good luck... it looks beautiful (but NOT 300$ beautiful!)