Earlier this week, we looked at inspiration for a daywear Upton, and today is all about the party Upton! The great thing about the new Upton Dress & Skirt plus Mix & Match Expansion Pack is that you can have it both ways—all 350+ ways, in fact!—with a single pattern. All those bodice, neckline, sleeve, and skirt options mean you can craft a party outfit that’s just how you like it.
Although we’re not reaching for our party dresses quite as often these days, there are still lots of opportunities to celebrate life: birthdays, anniversaries, graduations—the list goes on! So throw on that special outfit for an intimate at-home gathering or a virtual Zoom celebration, and hopefully soon we’ll be able to gather again to share our me-mades with the rest of the world.
Okay, let’s pop a bottle of champagne and get the Upton inspiration flowing!
The Little Black Dress
The little black dress is a wardrobe staple, but that doesn’t mean it has to be ordinary! Make a versatile party dress that has your personal touch applied to it, like a trendy square neckline.
Want the look? Pair the Upton’s darted bodice with the knee-length pleated skirt. (Sleeves or sleeveless? That’s up to you!)
Turn Up the Sparkle!
Steal the show (or the Zoom call) in a glimmery Upton that sparkles in the light. A sequined fabric or metallic velvet is the perfect way to make your Upton extra special for those special occassions.
Want the look? Try a short flutter sleeve with the v-neck darted bodice and a maxi-length gored skirt.
The Silky Skirt
Glide into every room in a silky Upton Skirt! Paired with a special top, this skirt can be just as fancy as a full dress.
Want the look? Choose a knee-length or tea-length gored skirt—oversized bow optional!
The Mixed Media Dress
Mix and match complementary fabrics for a mixed-media Upton that is sure to impress. Substitute tulle for the fitted sleeves for a delicate and sophisticated touch.
Want the look? Go for the square-neck princess-seamed bodice and 3/4th length sleeves, combined with a tea-length gored skirt.
The Showstopper
Stand out in the ultimate showstopper: a big and bold pleated maxi skirt. Choose a metallic jacquard or upholstery fabric for extra volume.
Want the look? Go for the maxi-length pleated skirt, and don’t forget pockets!
Feeling inspired? Get your copy of the Upton plus Mix & Match Expansion, and then let’s start sewing! Be sure to tag your makes with #UptonDress or #UptonSkirt on social media so we can inspired from your incredible creations.
WOW!!!! These are gorgeous! Once this quarantine/pandemic is over I’ll definitely make one of these for either events or performances. Fabulous!!!
I love this pattern. Will be ordering soon.
Thinking a dress for my grandson s wedding ♥️
I am planning to make a pleated Upton skirt with a mesh fabric that has faux leather appliqué on it. I was wondering what to do about the lining. Should I put a gathered lining or would it be better to line the whole fabric and then pleat it as normal?
It depends a little on the weight of the main and lining fabric – gathering could be bulky if the lining isn’t very thin. So, I’d probably interline instead (treat the lining and outer as one piece).
Hi, I’m thinking about making the upton with a silk organza top and a voile pleated skirt. I’d like the top to be black organza with solid black silk (would probably use a silk habotai or solid black voile) lining covering the bust/stomach but would like the straps and back to just be organza (for a sheer effect). Would you recommend adding the solid silk as an interlining between two layers of organza in the front? I thought about just not lining the back, but I feel like for construction of the bodice it would probably be better to have two layers of organza.
Also, to give the skirt a little more volume, I’m planning on making the pleated tea length, could I add an organza lining underneath the silk voile or would it be better to just make a separate organza/tulle petticoat?
Sounds gorgeous! I do think interlining would work best for the front and an organza lining should definitely work in the skirt!