Christmas Leopard Magic Twirl Dress

​Christmas Leopard Magical Twirl Dress

Most stunning make to date! Full disclosure: I made reservations for a fancy Christmas Eve dinner just so I would have an excuse to make this pattern. The fabric was already in my stash, so it was truly meant to be. I can't be clear enough on how easy this pattern is to follow. Between the easy-to-follow instructions, support group, and the video my holiday dress came together smoothly. 

Red Fabric: Stretch Velvet with Glitter Snowflakes (possibly from Joann or Hobby Lobby)
Leopard Fabric: Faux Alpaca Brushed Sweater Knit from Olga's Closet

Sizing
I measured between S and XS, but went with S. My velvet fabric has 50% horizontal stretch. I could have easily gone with the XS because I did end up taking the front bodice in by 1/4" where the front of the sleeve connects. I did a bicep adjustment up one size. If I were to go with an XS next time, the bicep would need to go up two sizes (if the fabric has the same amount of stretch).

Making It Plush
My leopard sweater knit is thin and I wanted these accents to be really lush. I ended up lining the collar and sleeve cuffs with a thick stretch fleece. I went with the rushed (both sides) collar.

Swirly Twirly Hem
I really wanted the hem of this skirt to pop. Circle skirts are fancy on their own, but the addition of a horsehair braid just brought this skirt to life! Click here to watch a clip of me understitching the horsehair braid hem by hand.