Choose a dress whose back sits at your shoulder blades, or just below them. You can also sew a formal gown from scratch. Buy a pattern that allows for the gown to zip up the back, preferably something with boning. Make the gown according to the instructions, then click here to continue. It’s best if the dress is too small by about 5–6 in (13–15 cm). If it fits correctly, you’ll need to take some of the fabric out of the back in a V-shape. [1] X Expert Source Margo WestProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 7 December 2020.
If your dress does not have a lining, then use the seam ripper to cut the stitches holding the zipper to the dress. Do not take the entire zipper out. Having a few inches/centimeters of zipper in the skirt will help you put the dress on and take it off.
You will need to do this for both halves of the zipper.
If your gown came with spaghetti straps, cut those off now, then click here to continue.
The length of the strip should be the length of the corset back you’re creating, plus about 6 in (15 cm) just in case you need a few more loops. [2] X Expert Source Margo WestProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 7 December 2020.
This will look best if you cut on the bias. [3] X Expert Source Margo WestProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 7 December 2020.
Don’t leave the curved part of the loop sticking out of the dress. It should be resting flush against the edge of the dress. Repeat this step on the right side. Make sure that the loops line up perfectly. Cover the raw edges of the loops with a matching ribbon if your dress doesn’t have a lining.
Backstitch at the start and end of your sewing for extra strength. Sew down the top 1 inch (2. 54 centimeters) of each zipper half as well.
If you’re making your own tie, you may need to cut and sew 2 pieces of fabric together. [5] X Expert Source Margo WestProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 7 December 2020.
You can also sew boning onto the sides of the panel, if you’d like. [6] X Expert Source Margo WestProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 7 December 2020.
