I quite agree that the judges were on something this season.  They made a lot of strange decisions.

However, pattern books are for reference and inspiration.  They are meant to be utilized.  Is every jean that goes down a runway a cheat because they are simply pants that everyone else has made?  Granted, the blouse is very unique (and it could have been a mere coincidence) but the point is that if not, he most likely used the pattern guide as a reference and modified the design to be his own.  The designers on the show have put out much worse designs that had no creativity in them at all - at least better creative and possibly copied than washed out and boring!

thank you everyone!  your comments are lovely.

craftewoman - thank you!  and good guess, i used to do ballet. 

crochetmama905 - i am surprised how long this post lasted too!  everyone is so kind.

glossy - i am 5'10''.  my straps were about 9 feet long!  that length allowed for a bit of a train down the back - 6 or 7 feet would probably suffice.  but the longer the straps, the more options, and the prettier the knot in the back

absolutely beautiful!  wonderful way of incorporating your inspiration.

this is fantastic, thanks for sharing!

i was recently on the west elm website and saw their starburst mirror (and have been pining away for it) but on a college budget, its not something i would spend on for something i didnt really need.  but now i think i will make it like you did!

your dresses are absolutely gorgeous!  (and you have a beautiful height to you!) great job, and im glad i was able to help!

thank you!

green_tea_lover: try it, your sewing skills might just be all you need the dress is relatively simple with few seams, and fortunately there are so many pictures available and tutorials that you will have many resources.  and if you have any specific questions feel free to message me! (before i made my dress i saved pictures of my favourites too!)

yes, i am in fashion school now, at the Design Architecture Art and Planning (or dAAp) at the university of cincinnati. its a wonderful design school!

oh - on trimming it, a few inches above the knee is supposedly the most flattering length

wow its gorgeous, you did a great job! (i love that shade of blue). glad i could help!

thanks!

youre welcome! post a link if you make something !