Musings by Knitwits - Little Green Dresses by Tina Sparkles

Published: September 2010

Publisher: Tauton Press

Pages: 256

Copy Obtained by: NetGalley

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Never shop retail again with this chic and sweet collection of DIY patterns from a former host of DIY Network’s Stylelicious, Tina Sparkles. Joining the green movement was never so easy — and cost saving! With Sparkles’ stripped-down approach to patterning and sewing, the delightful dresses, tops, skirts, and pants in this fashion-forward project book will not only raise your eco-IQ, but open your eyes to new methods for sewing garments. Author Tina Sparkles, a talented and imaginative designer, offers up an array of project ideas that are both earth- and user-friendly. Readers can pick and choose the patterns that suit them best, from A-line, tiered, and bubble skirts to “body tube” dresses and “cap-sleeve cutie” blouses. Included are sewing and shopping resources and a fitting guide.

Review:
What drew me to this book were the gorgeous dresses on the front. I'm a more conservative kind of gal who likes classic lines and once in a while, I'll try something different. This book is for a girl who is comfortable with her own identity and dresses to be one of a kind. If you're creative and have a funky style, this is the book for you. Oh, and you must be able to sew well.

What I like best about this book is that it encourages the user to re-use, re-purpose and re-style what you already have in your closet. It is cost-effective and environmentally friendly to our landfills. However, it doesn't scream for you to never purchase anything new again either. The author also encourages you to shop in retail stores and contribute to the economy but re-evaluate HOW you shop. Look for quality-made items. Choose local designers and local materials. Also, check out a company's website to see what they are doing to operate in a socially responsible way.

Personally, I found the patterns in this book to be too daunting but if you are comforble making your own clothes I say GO FOR IT! I would LOVE to see anything that people have made with the guidance of Little Green Dresses. Who knows, it may even inspire me to attack my wardrobe with a new vengeance....and a pair of scissors....