Vlogmas Day Nineteen

[@karinassyrom]

I’ll have to say I agree with you, not the most flattering dress, but the fabric looks fabulous so I also agree on making it into a blouse ☺️

[@janicecoulson5388]

My hubby went to B and M without me!!!!! Enjoyed your haul

[@bobby8592]

Sadly Ruan, I agree with your comments on the dress😢 The sleeves are amazing and I think a top would look smashing😊

[@sarahhicks877]

Before attacking the dress, what’s does the dress look like with a belt? Might be a quick fix? Failing that, yes it would look good as a blouse. Loving guest appearances from Simba and Tigger 😂

[@suek7086]

Perhaps try a belt with the dress plus possibly a colorful necklace or scarf. I agree, it looks nice when you are sitting.😊

[@suek7086]

I love the conversation about the toilet seat. I miss having kids. Sort of.

[@jonespley]

Yes,I would cut it off. If you don't feel great in it you won't wear it.❤❤

[@marianweber831]

Ruan I love your expressions when you try to figure out what is in the calender. You are so fun to watch. Thank you for sharing.

[@JaqueBampi]

16:59 blouse, yes!

[@whatbecsews]

I love that you chose your outfit based on the earrings… fills me with so much joy! ❤ Cut the dress down into a top or add a belt? One with colour? X

[@what_valerie_makes]

Hello! I think a shorter dress with some fun tights would be amazing and different from what you already have. I think it looks great on you btw but you have to feel good about it. Haven’t cut mine out yet but it’s next!

[@sarahhughes6793]

That's so funny. I've been to B&M tonight. I just paused it to sort the dog out. Pressed play and for a moment I thought it was my shopping at the tills! I discovered and bought some cola chewits too!

[@HeatherBulcock]

Unfortunately I agree about the dress, I would suggest trying a belt first(maybe even a red one for the red shoes) but if not the blouse could rescue it

[@musikkfamilien]

The dress is just FINE! You are overthinking!!! It should NOT be altered! Wear it as is at Christmas. And you will see!

[@SEWDOITEMMA]

Merry Christmas 🎄

[@bonnieyoung3370]

OMG. I had such a great laugh….OH SIMBA….one of the best feelings, a big happy laugh. Tigger also gets honourable mention. ❤️ the cat’s video bomb. Thank you.

[@joyjackman6017]

Yes go for the top option 🐾🐾

[@elainedewhirst6037]

A memory vlog came up today. You were so excited for 5k subscribers, 3 years ago. Wow now over 16k, well done your style is so popular. X

[@JaqueBampi]

I love your authenticity, Ruan! ❤

[@jeannettehirst5489]

You do make me giggle. I immediately thought of a priest’s gown the way it is, definitely a top though with skinny jeans and boots will look fab, the sleeves and fabric look lovely X

[@karolmolpus9536]

Dress finished well ❤

[@sandrabrown7466]

The material is fab for the black dress. Love the neck, the back, and the sleeves. I do agree about the shape of the dress on you. A blouse is a great idea, but what about Shirring a few rows around the waist or a row of elastic to give it a shape. It’s a shame to waste the material. Good luck! Xxx🥰

[@CreativityFromBlueberryH-wo3gu]

A broken toilet seat huh?!!! Real life strikes again! I love the new mug! I’ll check Ruth out. I need a mug with my FB Page (and upcoming YT channel on it).

[@elainesnyder8210]

I agree with you I think a top would be great out of the dress. It is beautiful and beautiful fabric. Love the shopping trip. ❤

[@annethompson9154]

Definitely know what you mean about the dress I made an hope dress by style arc I loved the fabric but oh my goodness the dress definitely wore me I was drowning in it lol i think the dress would make a lovely blouse xx

[@craftymystic4868]

The black dress, great for a statement belt. Try it first!

[@robinhudson6800]

I agree with you, the dress is wearing you. I would turn it into a mini dress and maybe take in the sides a little. Wear it with tights and high boots and it will look great!

[@suziesroka9869]

I agree with you, it would look beautiful as a top, and the fabric is so lovely it would be a shame to waste it. X

[@gigracer]

I think that cutting the dress off into a top would take it from “Vicar of Dibley” to chic and versatile. Particularly since you won’t wear it as it is. The fabric and sleeves are just lovely, and hopefully you’d get to enjoy it as a top

[@jeanniegirardin3665]

I actually just made a dress as a toile for some "precious" fabric. Glad I did, because it looks like a nightgown! But I've decided to sew 6 thin vertical outward facing pleats in a row from the under bust to right below my natural waist, and same in the back to give it some shape and style. I think that will save it!

[@sheilaholter4489]

So, I love the fabric of the dress, and I think as a dress it has potential. I think if it was a little bit shorter, and if you did ties like the Saltwater slip dress, it could really look nice. I think short with tights would also look very mod and cute. And, of course you could always cut it into a top. The fabric is soooooooo good!

[@edwinamackinnon7004]

Definitely make a top from it. Sometimes it just doesn’t work and it’s usually when it’s been made for a specific occasion. I’m sure you will love it in the end. Loving following your Vlogmas journey. Enjoy your party tomorrow.

[@Nanette-n8n]

What about a narrow red belt . It’s the black sucking all the swing out of it. Yes a short/long hem might work.

[@hazelsandford1888]

It’s a good maternity dress xxx

[@debbiecarter6430]

Ooh, I could do with one of those wax things. 👍

[@andrearyan816]

Could you sew a channel for elastic at the waist and use the extra fabric for a frill at the bottom to lengthen the dress? A blouse would be lovely too.

[@brigitteusher5277]

I agree too with your thoughts about the dress Ruan. I think a blouse would look better on you.

[@annettecowburn-sz8cq]

Yep, lob it off.

[@deborahange842]

I’d like to see that dress/ top with some long, glittery necklaces, to break up the black. Love the kitties.

[@lesleysmith7452]

Mmm Im with you maybe a top. Or yeah dress would need to be short Have a fab time xxxx

[@cecilehoare3053]

Ruan if you take two Ritz crackers and put peanut butter between them, put parchment paper on the jelly roll pan then lay them out. Melt 3/4 cup of butter NOT MARGARINE with 3/4 cup brown sugar until it's bubbling (3 mins). Pour it on top of the stacked crackers. Pop them in the oven at 375F for 5-8 mins then remove. Immediately sprinkle chocolate chips on top, let sit for a couple minutes then use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate across the top. Wait until it cools then break it apart and devour it! lol It's called Christmas Crack! lol Nope to the length of the black dress! Cut it off either mid thigh and wear fun tights with it and fun boots or cut it into a blouse! Wear your hair in a high pony tail dangly glitter earrings and you're good for your party! Great job on it!

[@carolhughes312]

I agree with your dress styling comments.

[@ohsewvicki]

I'd shorten it as dress first, and then if you're still not keen, chop it to blouse length. Some sparkly snags would be nice with it ❤ xx

[@wandacleveland5919]

The dress would look great as a top over a pencil skirt pr skinny jeans in animal print

[@jeanbaker-z3e]

Yes shorten it like a tent dress in the sixties and do something with the sleeves they are hanging wrongly shorten them too.

[@frannygrace2191]

When I saw you in your black dress I thought"Vicar of Dibley". You're right, the dress wears you. I think it would make a cute blouse, though!

[@sarahgautreaux2363]

I say chop that dress into a blouse. I think it'll be so cute and more of your vibe.

[@joangilmore3598]

Would love the dress as a top, looks a bit frumpy as a dress,( hope that doesn’t sound rude).You,ve made a lovely job, , maybe a short dress with black tights would look lovely.😌x.

[@christinawelton9689]

I would try a silver belt with the dress before cutting

[@leonabraithwaite8881]

The fabric is really nice but yes - make it into a top and you can wear it with some skinny jeans and some heeled boots. It’s real frustrating when things don’t turn out the way you expect.

[@AdamSews]

I think a top would look stunning, if you can’t be bothered I’ll have it as a hairdressing gown 😂😂

[@ibengoosbahnson1260]

I see what you meen about the dress. The top i gorgeous. I think a short dress with leggins would look nice, but if you dont like that, a long blouse? It will be fine either way, because the fabric is beautiful and the fit is perfect on the top 👍

[@ArchieB133]

Hi Ryan, sadly I agree the dress seems a bit overwhelming but before you cut it into a blouse, I think you should try taking it in down both sides and if that doesn’t work then cut it into a top. Good luck

[@SewLikeDotty]

😂😂😂 our toilet flush broke I didn’t share that either there are somethings not for sharing 😂l toilet💖🚽

[@rachellynncreates2703]

I vote to make it a top and use the rest as a skirt.

[@janetcollinson4587]

Think you need some sparkly brooch on it to break it up a little. ❤

[@lisam9519]

Its cute, the fabric is lovely. I do think its rather shapless as is tho, not as flattering as it could be. It needs a visible waistline. Maybe you can add a channel at your waist to add ties or a belt, or elastic? (Im imagining the closet core sallie maxi) Chopping it to a top would be pretty cute too. I do love the scoop in the back.

[@JaneyJane_sews]

Belt with black dress and red lippy? Or fish eye darts to give it some shape? Or keep it to wear with a black coat for funerals?

[@DottyRed]

Turn it round ❤

[@abibramdaw9400]

Ooh hadn't thought of that

[@chrissycrompton7585]

I agree that I think the dress will look nicer cut short with tights and heels. But before you chop, as 1 of the comments above, how about just trying a wide belt with it? Might work 🤔

[@angiemcconnell9070]

I vote for a blouse! I think that would look much better on you as a blouse. You could always try a belt, maybe in a bright color, to give it a bit of shape at the waist? The top part is quite lovely!

[@christaboudreaux6687]

Loving vlogmas 🎄 Thank you for doing it , it such a gift !! As for the dress !! I would for sure try shortening it !! You are gorgeous in anything but try shorter or maybe a belt ?

[@teenajohnson1688]

I agree that a blouse or shorter dress would help but also I think the neckband gives the appearance of drawing a black line near your face. Could you possibly take the neck band off and use a button closure for the back. Also a V neckline might show more skin which will soften the front of the blouse or dress and reduce the heavy appearance of the garment. The fabric is gorgeous hope it can be reconfigured.

[@DeniseWane]

Make it into a top! Would look great. Does not hang right for a dress!

[@antoniaburlingame5921]

Hi Ruan. I can't get the idea of adding a wide black velvet belt/sash to the black dress. It would bring in the waist and the texture of the tone-on-tone black fabric against the deep-as-night black velvet would probably play together elegantly. I hope you get some breathing space soon, Antonia

[@jennymathewson]

As somebody else said, as you were modelling it I was thinking maybe a belt. Failing that, could you try making it shorter at the front, dipped at the back and then if that didn't work a blouse. Hope you have a great night out. After a couple of glasses you won't care what you're wearing 😂

[@janetwilliams7705]

Say “no” to the dress. I can’t get the vision of you walking a dark hallway holding a candle! I’m giggling at the vision, not you. I adore you.

[@CreativityFromBlueberryH-wo3gu]

The dress! Yes! It would look lovely with colored heels and “bare” legs. It would be so cute shorter as well, but I wouldn’t want a mini for me. Have you thought about taking it in a bit on t ride, or something under the bust to reduce the mass? Here’s my thought on the uneven hem. I’ve never liked seeing the actual hem “standing out” on the back fabric. Often the inside of our fabric is slightly different in color or texture than the outside of the fabric. Approaching from the front I see the quarter or half inch hem as much as I see a design feature. I’m one who thinks the back should be lined, or the hem should be really deep, so the stitching doesn’t show. For example, if the back is 12” longer (or 6 or whatever) than the front, the hem should be 12”, or lined. After I’ve said that, it might appear that I don’t like a swooped hem. Huh! Never thought about that! It’s going to be gorgeous whatever you choose! Enjoy your overnighter!

[@sandrarj6429]

I am loving your vlogs, Ruan. But I have to comment about TBD. It looks like you're going to a wake not party. Definitely make it into a top. 🎉

[@rebeccaburch4837]

It does look like a great black hole. I love the fabric though. I think it needs something to break up the line. Perhaps a wide belt in silver? You have a nice shape, but the cut of the dress doesn't flatter it. It might benefit from some contrast trim around the neck and cuffs. That would give some definition to the lines and negate the "wearing a sack" look.

[@BKint-x5t]

If you add a colourful necklace or scarf eg red, it. Will make all the difference 😊

[@nataliebateman6980]

Have you tried a belt?? Gold or red? Or leopard print?? If not cut off as a blouse and wearing it with leopard print trousers!!

[@sewkanna5723]

If you style your dress with statement necklace and thin belt to break colour it up? Or maybe even shirr the waist like the Lotta x

[@PatriciaHarmer]

Agree doesn’t really do anything so try the blouse option 🥴

[@heatherrees9331]

The dress looks a little matronly from the front. I agree cutting it to a top you will love it!!

[@janechadwick2635]

Certainly no longer than knee length for the dress - the black is very formal looking. In a loud cotton fabric for summer it would probably look totally different in the long length.

[@emdoubleu1301]

A top would look great - and there might be enough fabric left over to bash out a cami too!

[@debrariley2057]

I think it’s combination of things with the dress, sleeves seem neither here nor there, length hard to decide what’s best to do. Such a shame when this happens, my last errgghh feeling over something I made was a duster length coat/coatagan thing ended up looking like a dressing gown, I was so pleased with it while I was making it, blinded all the seams etc now it hangs forlorn on the back of the door while I work out what to do. Great vlog as always !

[@SewMyTime]

I can understand what you mean about the dress - I think it needs to sit just above the knee and be worn with heeled boots or shoes. You have to be comfy to be confident in it. Beautiful fabric that cannot be wasted. Hope your loo seat was fixed- made me laugh😂😂😂. Lynne

[@sweeky6855]

Ruan I think its very flattering on you and would look nice with the hair up and jewellery. I also think it would look nice as top also. You could try a belt with it. If in doubt chop it lol

[@deborahmoore9133]

I think it would be a darling blouse.

[@jacquiehonnor4989]

I can see what you mean about your black dress. How about making a sliver or dull sliver sequin removable collar. Take in the side seams at waist line only giving you more waist definition. Have you tried it with a belt ? style it up with bright earrings and neckless. Love your videos, joy all the way with count down to Christmas ❤

[@JaneyJane_sews]

I live in New Zealand and when I go shopping and see a gnome I think of you. How crazy is that. 😂

[@lynnephelps2370]

Agree! The fabric has too much body to drape closer to your figure, which would have been more flattering. Love the idea of a longer tunic-style top where you could have a skinnier silhouette on the bottom to balance the top's volume.

[@pamgains7720]

What a great shop. So sorry to hear Ruth has been made redundant, what a shock. The dress does seems to overwhelm you. Perhaps the neck could be lower & take the dress in, to give it more shape. Love the back detail & the sleeves. Do want ever makes you happy.

[@thorunnben5072]

I think part of the “problem” with the dress is that it is black. The fabric looks gorgeous but black is not for everyone. How does it do with a sparkly belt and bright coloured tights? Or turning it into a blouse is also a good suggestion. Ps your cats 🐈‍⬛ do not get enough screen time😉

[@radiancedream8127]

I'd make a longish top with wide leg trousers if you have enough fabric left. Would look very elegant.

[@jillm8484]

Can you cut the black dress to about 3 or 4 inches above your knees and wear it with black tights? As it is, there is just too much fabric😊

[@quiltygal6981]

Oh as soon as you stood up in that dress I thought " you look like you need a vegetable stand outside your house" not sure if that's something you have there? But here the Italians grow heaps of veg and put a stall outside and sit their old Mumma out there to sell it 😂😂

[@SueTownson]

I really like the dress - I think the problem might be it looks like a lot of solid black on you. If you have some bright chunky jewellery - necklace and bangles it would make all the difference. I love the dress as it is but I think you should make it into a blouse so you will wear it but it has a beautiful drape and is very classic. The cut out back is stunning but if you don't feel right change it to something you will like more. 😎❤

[@elizabethevans5931]

What brand of peppermint tea do you drink? I’m drinking Twinnings.

[@leepayk-bann3489]

I would make it like Vogue 1723. It is giving me those vibes. When I say that I mean make it shorter. If it shows off your legs, it gives the illusion of more shape and everything looking slimmer.

[@sairdie]

The dress looked fab shorter🔥but it's all about how you feel in it. Maybe try it as a shorter dress before cutting it off into a top? Whatever you do, it will be lovely ❤

[@Craftytutu]

I agree Ruan, the dress wears you. You could try cutting it to above the knee before you go the whole hog and cut it to blouse length though? Just to see if you like it better.

[@tinasmith9998]

I wonder if you took in the side seems… or that for sure a blouse would look beautiful

[@Yorkygirl59]

Agree that a top would look better, or a sparkly belt might make it more acceptable. Maybe black is not your colour. Love it when cats muscle in on videos!

[@BOOKKAT74]

I love scents but we weren’t supposed to wear anything at work. They even sent a memo asking us not to use scented shampoo and conditioner. Can you believe that?

[@lydiajohnson2084]

If there was a way it gathered at little around the bust. It does overwhelm you so maybe shorter.

[@lynnfrench4969]

🎄❤️

[@Lindam47]

Not keen on the dress, it’s a bit “vicar of dibley” LOL. But it will be great as a top. Drooling over all your goodies from B&M, especially those tea cakes, miss them here in Australia 😢. Enjoy your work do.

[@LizMillard]

Agree about the dress. I think its just too long. It would look great shorter as a fun dress. Try it and then if you still dont feel right then go a top. Hope you have a great time at your work function.