More Hanami Improvisational Pleats

Elena now has another pleated Hanami. This time I went with the adorable crossed back and skirt length. The previous one was pretty and dainty so this time I wanted to make one that was more colorful and fun for my girl that never stops moving. (Please ignore her silly Princess shoes. Pick your battles, I always say.)

I had scraps of this novelty sea creature fabric left from a Halloween costume 12 years ago and I finally found a use for it. The orange polka dots is leftover from this recent dress and purchased at Joann’s in March. The pleated piece at the center front was made to mimic the fins on the sea horse’s back. At first it bothered me that it wasn’t symmetrical – I have a thing about symmetry. But now, I’m good with it because it’s relaxed, playful, and carefree – all qualities I could use more of. I cut the flutter sleeves, but I pleated them instead of gathering to create more fins. The lining is white with orange polka dots from my mom's stash passed on to me.

I love the peek of the seahorse fabric on the back too. In fact, I got a lot of pictures of her back because like I said, this girl never stops moving for long.

This dress suits Elena’s personality so well! The size 2 again fits her perfectly. I didn't modify one thing when cutting and that is rare for me.  This is a pattern I’ll be getting a lot of use out of for many more years to come. 

I can't resist posting one more funny picture. Elena has a serious issue with bugs all of a sudden. Here she is giving her best regards to one.

I am linking up to An's contest.