Today for the first day in a long time I had the entire day to myself. No kids, no husband, no dog. To commemorate this day I decided to throw on one of my favorites – my red linen slip dress.
No zippers or buttons, just a bold splash of color in a fabric that exudes comfort and style. When I wear this hand made red linen slip dress, I don’t feel dressed up. I feel dialed in.
Today, I wore it everywhere.
However, before we get to the wandering, let’s talk about the details and why red.
Pattern & Fabric for This Red Linen Slip Dress
This red linen slip dress actually started with an old favorite, the same pattern I used for my strapless madras dress (you can see that version here). For this one, I kept the original bodice but added a ruffle for a little extra movement. It felt right—this red linen slip dress was always meant to have a bit of swish to it.
And the fabric? Linen, of course. Always linen. It’s my go-to for summer projects for a reason. It’s breezy but never sloppy, elegant but never fussy. It has that lived-in quality that only gets better with time, and every wash softens it just a little more. It’s the kind of fabric that works with you, not against you. Just like a good red linen slip dress should.
If you’re looking for great linen fabric I recommend Wholesale Fabric Direct. They have beautiful fabric in dozens of colors at a great price. It’s the only place I buy linen and I have a lot of it!
The Power of Red
There’s something unapologetic about red. It doesn’t whisper. It shows up fully, without waiting to be invited in. It’s the color of courage, of celebration. However, too often, we treat red like a special occasion guest. Reserved for parties, lipstick, & holidays. We forget that red can be everyday magic, especially when softened with something as easygoing as linen.
A Day in My Handmade Red Linen Slip Dress: From Coffee to Happy Hour
Morning: I start my day at a local coffee shop. I order a flat white and a croissant. Honestly, I love a good croissant and this one didn’t disappoint. I take the window seat and watched as people pass by while enjoying my breakfast.
Midday: My next is a stop at my favorite fabric store. I stroll through the aisles looking for that perfect fabric for my next project. After purchases have been made, I stop to pet the store mascot. A Boston Terrier named swatch.
Afternoon: As the day comes to an end I treat myself to a glass of wine and a neighborhood bistro. I pull out my book and settle in. I’m currently reading The Art Forger by B.A. Shapiro. It’s about a woman who is desperate to break into the art world and finds herself caught up in an art forgery scandal. I highly recommend it.
Style Notes
- Shoes: Red Banana Republic strappy sandals similar here and here.
- Bag: Navy featherette – Tutorial coming soon
- Jewelry: A red and blue scarf a red rondelle bead necklace made by me. You can find the tutorial here and make your own in no time, and a peso coin necklace similar here
Final Thought
If you had a day all to yourself what would you wear?
Thanks for reading!
