Famous Frocks: Little Black Dress: Patterns for 20 Garments Inspired by Fashion Icons

Author O’Shea knows that many women long to combine the “perfect LBD” (little black dress) with the sought-after style of such celebrities as Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Princess Diana. Her solution? This stylishly presented collection of sewing patterns for 10 LBDs; O’Shea also shows how each pattern can be adapted to another look. Whether readers want to copy the swinging ’60s miniskirt style of Mary Quant, the knitwear elegance of Coco Chanel, or Ava Gardner’s sultry evening gown, patterns and careful instructions are here along with designs based on photos. Just a glance through the book should alert sewists that these are complex and demanding patterns, and, indeed, the instructions assume that users are at least at an intermediate level. While patterns are tucked into the cover (and the author and publisher should be commended for including sizes S–XL), even they will require careful preparation before use. But the designs are lovely and classic, making this book a wonderful addition to the experienced sewist’s idea cache. (Aug.)