Festival of Lights LED Light-Up Dress

Rachel wearing a LED light up skirt.

Are you looking to stand out at your holiday party this year or add some extra pizzazz to a favorite dress?  This tutorial from Rachel Petterson, aka Pigs In Pajamas, will show you how to easily transform (almost) any skirt or dress–including one you’ve already made–by adding a removable, twinkling LED underskirt! For a very […]

Vampira Costume (Lorelei Dress Hack)

Gertie wearing the Vampira Dress hack

It’s not the Halloween Extravaganza if I don’t bring my not-so-secret goth side out to play! This hack of the Lorelei Gown came out even better than I expected. But first, some inspiration! Vampira (played by Maila Nurmi) was a character in a tv show, The Vampira Show, that ran for one year (1954-1955) and […]

Dolly Parton Jumpsuit Costume (Lorelei Dress Hack)

Gertie wearing the Dolly Parton Jumpsuit costume

Dolly Parton is a style icon! I am delighted to share this hack of the Lorelei Gown (paired with the Dolly Bell Bottoms) so you can recreate this iconic look! Let’s start with some inspiration. Dolly wore so many jumpsuits with big bell bottoms back in the 1970s! More images and inspiration can be found here. […]

Niagara Bodice and Sleeve Expansion

The Niagara Bodice pattern expansion includes a longer three-quarter sleeve as well as alternate bodice and midriff front pattern pieces for the Niagara Keyhole Bodice, so you can wear this sexy style during the cooler months and in more staid environments. — xoxo, Gertie This pattern was originally published on Patreon on July 15, 2025.

Niagara Keyhole Bodice Pattern

Niagara Keyhole Bodice sewing pattern cover art

The Niagara Keyhole Bodice pattern was inspired by the gorgeous pink wiggle dress Marilyn Monroe wore in Niagara (1953), created by costume designer Dorothy Jeakins. This fully lined bodice has a sexy keyhole opening and a lower, wider, and deeper V-neckline than the Lisa Bodice (released in March). It is meant to be worn off […]

Elizabeth Caftan Pattern

Elizabeth Caftan sewing pattern from Charm Patterns by Gertie

Nothing says confidence and sophistication more than the Elizabeth Caftan, inspired by the legendary Elizabeth Taylor. With a shaped front fit for a goddess and an elastic interior belt, you’ll be able to flounce (or lounge) in both comfort and style.  The shorter caftan makes a perfect summer poolside coverup, and the longer version can be […]

Norma Turban Pattern

Norma Turban sewing pattern from Charm Patterns

The Norma Turban was inspired by the character of Norma Desmond (played by Gloria Swanson) and her fabulous wardrobe in the 1950 dark comedy Sunset Boulevard. The film is incredible (with costumes designed by Edith Head), but I am absolutely obsessed with the Sunset Boulevard musical currently playing on Broadway, too. It’s a classic! — […]