It was about a year ago when Sarah Gunn from Goodbye Valentino contacted me. She wanted to know if I would be interested in participating in a project she was working on with Julie Starr. The project was top secret and I had to sign on without knowing what I was signing on to. I didn’t hesitate a bit and said yes immediately. At the time I had only been blogging about 8 months and I was really looking to be a part of a sewing community.
After saying yes to who knows what, I started to speculate. Maybe I’d be trying out a pattern, making a garment, and putting my own spin on it. Hmmmm, yeah, I’ve got some ideas. Yeah, I’ve got this, I was thinking to myself. As I looked through my closet and my fabrics, I thought to myself, well, the only thing I don’t do is tunics, but hey, what are the odds?!
I anxiously awaited the email with the big reveal, and guess what! It’s a book about TUNICS! Uh oh. Hang on a minute while I panic. Maybe I don’t got this.
Okay, so here’s me, googling and pinning like crazy, breathing into paper bags. It was my “make it work” moment. By the time I had the pattern in hand, I was ready to tackle the challenge. And here’s the thing–as much as I worried that I wouldn’t be able to make a tunic that felt like me, I ended up making a garment that has my style more than anything I’ve made so far. Is it because I fretted over it so long and so hard? Maybe a little. But mostly I think it’s because a tunic may be the most versatile garment there is. Kudos to Sarah and Julie for figuring that out.
The Tunic Bible gives you all the tools to create something that is uniquely “you”. I didn’t think they could do it but I’m now a believer! So I went ahead and made a second tunic. The only two tunics in my closet, but not my last. I’ve got more ideas, all queued up, waiting to get sewn.
Let’s talk specifics. For both of the tunic dresses, I used the bib placket. The black one has two eyelet fabrics that I combined. I used a semi-sheer eyelet on the placket and sleeves. Instead of interfacing the placket, I underlined it with a stiff muslin. This served the purpose of providing structure but also a nice backing for the semi-sheer eyelet so that the main eyelet fabric wouldn’t show through. The sleeves are the fitted sleeve option which I shortened a bit, then added the scalloped ruffle. I used a pintucked trim around the bib and on top of the sleeve ruffle.
The white lace dress was sewn differently in that I wanted the lace unstructured and unlined. I had to use a tricky corner seam to attach the bib placket on this one. The bib is constructed using strips of lace cut from the main fabric and stitched together. Technically the bib placket is slightly more narrow than the pattern but that’s due to the width of the lace strip. I added a silk charmeuse bias binding and ties to the neckline to hold everything up. Inside, the seams were bound with silk charmeuse. For the sleeves, I added a bell to the end to give it more length. I decided not to sew the back darts on this tunic, since I preferred to have the lace uninterrupted. It gives it a slightly more boxy feel than the black tunic which is fitted with the back darts.
Now I know you’re thinking, I have to have this book. Well, you are in luck because I’m giving one away! Please leave me a comment and you will automatically have a chance at winning! The winner will be announced on October 11.
If you don’t already know, this post has been part of the blog publicity tour for The Tunic Bible. Be sure to check out what other bloggers have done with the tunic pattern. I’ve posted the schedule below. See you soon.
Pattern, Bib Placket Tunic Dress, The Tunic Bible (Both Dresses)
Fabric, Black Eyelet and White Lace, B&J Fabric
Photography by Santiago Vanegas
The Tunic Bible Blog Tour
- October 3, C&T Publishing and Pattern Review
- October4, Cloning Couture and Generation Q Magazine
- October 5, Oonaballoona and Featherstitch Avenue
- October 6, Allie J and Thanks I Made Them
- October 7, Sew Busy Lizzy and Jennuine Design
- October 8, Inside the Hem and Girls in the Garden
- October 9, Sew Manju and My Love Affair with Sewing
- October 10, Evolution of a Sewing Goddess and Creating in the Gap
- October 11, House of Pinheiro and The Tunic Bible
Your work with lace is amazing. Love that you tried something new. I will be new to tunics once my book comes in! I can’t wait! Thanks for the inspiration!
Thanks so much! Yes, you are going to love making many tunics! So many different ways to go. And I’m sure that you will love the challenge of making it very personal, just like I did.
Your tunics/dresses are beautiful. And what wonderful details. Not what I’d normally consider a tunic.
Please enter my name for the book give away.
You are definitely entered! And thanks so much for visiting Featherstitch Avenue.
Long ago I made some tunics and I lived in them. I wonder what ever happened to those patterns.
It’s true about living in tunics. I wear mine frequently.
Love your tunics, hoping to make my own soon.
Thanks so much. You won’t be able to make just one! There are so many different ways to interpret the tunic you will have to make many!
so so beautiful exquisite, and the best,
love
Thanks Liliana! Sending love.
These tunics are both beautiful. I have been following the Tunic Bible blog tour and have been interested but not sure I would add one of these tunics to my wardrobe until today. Your lace and eyelet versions have given me inspiration on how to incorporate this look into my repertoire. Thank you.
I’m so glad you like them. As you know from reading the post, I was really nervous about being able to make these tunics fit my style. But with all the options, it was much easier than I thought to create something that feels like me.
Tracey both of your tunics are gorgeous. You interpreted the pattern in a way that is uniquely you. Great job!
Thanks so much, Lucy!
Inspirational and beautiful! I have no tunics in my closet and after seeing what you have created, am definitely inspired to add one or two. Would love a copy of The Tunic Bible.
I didn’t really wear tunics before creating these, but now I love them! Thanks for the compliment!
I love your two versions! Can’t wait to see more!
Thank you!!
Wow! The tunics are gorgeous! Fantastic job with the lace!!!
The lace was a little tricky, but well worth the effort. Thanks for stopping by!
Your tunics are lovely, Tracey! Yes to Tunics!
Thank you!!
Do I count?
I’ve seen these tunics in person (I photographed them) and they are simply amazing. The detail, grace, fit, and sophistcation are off the charts.
Awww, thanks. 🙂
I love both of your tunics! Your use of the laces adds such dimension and depth.
Thanks, Bianca!
Wow, Tracey!!! Your attention to detail & creativity never cease to amaze me! Both are so beautiful I can’t choose which one I like better.
Sharon, thank you so much. I had a good time making both. We all have our light side and our dark side. I have a dress for each mood!
The black eyelet is stunning. Love it.
The black one gets worn A LOT! Thanks for the compliment.
I hardly recognize your creations as tunics (and that’s meant as a compliment). Shows the versatility of the pattern, for sure.
Lots of possibilities with this pattern. It was fun to pick and choose different options. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Wow! Your tunics look amazing! You did a wonderful job with the different fabrics!
Thanks so much!!
Wow! What great creations! I knew the tunic-look could be versatile, but yours have that whole 1960s Picadilly street couture thing happening. Lace? Never woulda thunk it! What fabric(s) have you chosen for the next versions? Darts? — ldp
Thanks! I think my next tunic is going to be made out of flowy chiffon a la Stevie Nicks!! Stay tuned…
Ooohhh! Just like the one-winged dove… Can’t wait to see!
Oh, wow. These really look like something from a fashion spread. Or at least a multi-page ad for something – Dolce & Gabbana? Barneys?
What a nice thing to say! Since I adore Dolce & Gabbana, that’s quite a compliment. Thank you very very much!
Nice. Love what you do with lace.
I’m really fixated on lace these days. I love it so much.
You did an amazing job on these. Beautiful!
Thank you 🙂
I never would have considered a tunic until I saw yours! Who knew a tunic could be cool!
Thank you! When you want cool (and I did!) it helps to start with black.
Beautiful tunics! You might even make me a convert. But I’m short and they always seem to make me look shorter…. Thanks for the opportunity to win the book.
There is a lot of opportunity to play with proportion with these tunics. Maybe you can find a winning combination. Good luck in the giveaway!
These dresses are beautiful! This book is on my must have list💞
Thanks! The Tunic Bible is a great resource. Sarah and Julie did such a good job.
I love them both! Great detailing. I have shown some of your photos to my mom (who has been sewing her whole life), and she was most impressed. I love what you are doing! Keep inspiring and being inspired.
Thanks, Margaret. It does feel good to have the creative outlet and to be passionate about something. It’s a great gift that I do not take for granted.
I would love to try and see if I can find one that fits me.
I think you have a very good chance of finding one that suits you perfectly. Good Luck!
I would love to win this book. I see so many possibilities for me to sew beautiful tunics.
The book is a wonderful addition to anyone’s sewing library. Good luck!
Wow!! These are so beautiful and so different from the other ones I’ve seen! I love your choice of material for both dresses. Can’t wait to try out my own tunic!
Thanks so much! I know you are going to have fun making your own!
I’m also not a tunic-wearer, but I love yours! And aren’t they practically dresses? 🙂 You chose beautiful fabrics, too!
Yes, they are tunic dresses. The Tunic Bible has different length options including a maxi. They make it really easy to make something that fits your style.
WOW! sensational! Cat
Thanks!!
I especially like the black one. Suits you so well!
Thank you! So glad you stopped by.
I too love the black version, it’s beautifully feminine but not girly – like so much of your clothes. Your photography on the site is stunning .
I’m lucky because my husband is the photographer. We met in art school and have been inspiring each other ever since.
Your tunics are so pretty. Love, love, love the many different variations.
Thanks so much!
I am really inspired by your tunics. I have wanted to make one combining eyelets, laces, etc. but couldn’t decide how to proceed. Your design choices look just right. Thanks!
So glad that I inspired you! I’m sure you will create something amazing!
gorgeous use of fabric and styling from the Tunic Bible–makes me anxious to look through it!
I know you are going to love the book. It’s packed with inspiration and information.
I love both of your tunics. The eyelet one is so unique. You have me inspired.
Thank you very much and thanks for visiting Featherstitch Avenue!
These are gorgeous!! I would love to have a copy of this book!!
Good luck in the giveaway! Thanks so much for visiting.
You created beautiful and inspiring tunics! I also appreciate the details you shared for construction – love your work.
Thank you very much. I’m so glad you liked them!
Your tunics are GORGEOUS! You have given me inspiration …if I do not win I will probably buy the book!!
Thank you so much! Yes, the book is wonderful. Well worth it.
love the lace! the encouragement i need to get outside my comfort zone 🙂
Oh good! I know you will make something wonderful. Good luck.
Thanks for the opportunity
You’re welcome. Thanks for visiting!
I love your tunics! I like a mix of the 60s shift dress and Free the People or Chelsea and Violet boho vibe- and these are gorgeous!
Thanks for a chance for the book. This looks like one that will be much loved.
Thank you so much. I love the vibe you are describing too! It still kind of amazes me that the tunic can adapt to so many different styles. It’s really fun to give them your own spin.
I really like tunic length tops and it looks like this book would be a great resource to make some to add to my collection
If you love tunic length tops then this is definitely the book for you. Loads of options and creative ideas!
I love tunics!
Me too!
These are gorgeous!
Thank you!
Your tunics are stunning! I am very excited for this book to be released.
Thanks! Yes, the book is definitely something you will want in your sewing library!
My next sewing project is a tunic so your post is very timely! I love your tunics , so pretty!
Thank you. Have fun making your tunic!!
Wow, the lace is so beautiful. I especially love the black one – the pintucked trim, the length, the bib…everything is just so much my style as well. Quite an inspiration.
I’m so glad you liked them! I am pleased with how they turned out especially given how nervous I was. It turned out to be a very productive challenge.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE both your tunics and a cannot wait for that book to finally be released. So disappointed that Amazon said it won’t be available until February. How can I sew the perfect tunic if it doesn’t come until then? The black is fabulous – and the lace is one I HAVE to try – bookmarking your blog – can’t wait to see what else you do!
Putting my website in but it is awful and I haven’t made a post in forever – but I have been sewing – I need a tripod, the bathroom mirror and iPhone just don’t do it!
I’m so glad that you found me and I’ll check out your blog too. Thanks so much for the compliments!
I never would have thought to make one with that gorgeous see-through lace. It’s just perfect!
It was kind of a leap of faith. I wasn’t sure how the lace one was going to turn out. But I’m happy with the result. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Your tunics are stunning! who would have thought a tunic could be so stylish.
Thank you!!
Beautiful dresses, I’m not usually a lace person but I’ll be definitely looking out for lace the next time I go fabric shopping!
The lace I used is a very soft cotton lace that has more of a daytime feel. I think it makes a difference in its wearability.
Wow! These garments are stand outs!
Thank you!
Great job! Beautiful variations! I would have never guessed that these lovely dresses were actually tunics. Now I only wish I win a copy and a chance to sew my own variation!
Maybe you will win! Good luck!
I just started looking at the blogs who are participating and I would not have even thought about using lace for a tunic. Yours has given me lots of inspiration. I will have to try a lace version for myself.
Definitely try the lace! I think you will be happy with the results.
Your tunics are fantastic! Thanks for the chance to win a copy of this book.
Good luck with the giveaway!
I absolutely love to see the differences in everyone’s tunic ideas. Yours are exquisite!
I agree! It’s been fun to see what each of us have come up with. I love the variety and how the tunics reflect our personalities.
Wow! So creative! I want one! Thanks for sharing and the opportunity to win!
I’ll be announcing the winner on October 11. Good luck!
the lace gives your tunics a nice victorian plus 60’s modern flair. I want to be a convert too!
Great! Thanks for your comment! You are entered in the giveaway. 🙂
Fabulous fabric choices! I’don’t love to win, thanks for the chance.
Thank you! Winner will be announced Octoer 11. Good luck!
I’m a convert too! Thanks for the chance to win. I like your blog (new to me)
Thanks! Yeah, I’m relatively new to blogging. Been quietly doing my thing for about a year and half. I’m having a lot of fun doing it. It’s a great creative exercise!
Love your tunics! I would love to win a copy of this book. Thank you for the opportunity!
Thanks! You are entered. 🙂
This seems like a great book! I”d love to win a copy! Please include me in your drawing–thanks!!
It’s a really nice book!
Holy cow! Your two dresses are gorgeous and look like something you’d find on a runway. I am so impressed and you’re right, I think I must get this book! Well done on the challenge; you knocked it out of the park.
Thanks! So nice of you to say!