Eat your heart out Gymboree!!

My kids go to a local Christian school.  This year they changed the dress code so that dresses must be below the knee.  WOW!  Now that is a challenge.  We've shopped and shopped and the options are limited.  Now she only has to wear a dress on chapel days, but as she is only 5, she loves pretty dresses.

This fall I purchased some Gymboree items from their "Smart but Sweet" collection.  As usual, the skirts are all too short.  They had a fun navy pleated skirt with embroidered daisies, so I revolted and made my own. 

I used Butterick 4593 and cut the yoke 1 " longer.  I cut a size 7, but used the size 8 for length plus added 2 inches.  Out came the embroidery machine and I matched the daisies on the leggings and made a nice yoke for the dress. 

Then I needed the "bling"!  A web search pulled up the following tutorial:  

Click on the picture for the tutorial

I made my own pattern, although you can do it freehand.  I covered the back with a circle of felt that helped secure a pin on the flower.  This way I can take it off for laundry or replace with a new one if there is a mishap in art or on the playground.

Here is a couple of pictures of the dress and the accent flower.  

The flower was super easy and could be addictive!  I saw several others online that would be fun to try as well.  Meanwhile, although it may not be The Gymboree skirt, my daughter loves it and the flower!
Pattern: