The Monthly Chronicle of VDC and Designs by Jude
Welcome to the Designs by Jude Insider Blog!
Hello, creative spirits and doll enthusiasts! It's time to immerse ourselves in the delightful world of doll fashion, crafted by the talented Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude. In this issue, we’re excited to unveil three new patterns Tamara has exclusively created for the Virtual Doll Convention's January subscription boxes. We'll also showcase some stunning sewing creations by our skilled VDC Community, delve into some fashion history, and preview exciting upcoming doll events. Plus, don't miss the chance to meet Tamara Casey and the VDC Crew in October 2025! Grab your sewing kits and let’s explore the fabulous creations that bring our dolls to life.
A Cozy Start to the Year with Anne Fitzpatrick's Sleepover!
January 2025 brought whimsy and warmth to our crafting community as we kicked off the year with the delightful Anne Fitzpatrick Sleepover event! Tamara crafted the perfect Sleepover Pattern for Anne, turning a simple gathering into an adorable pajama party. She even went the extra mile to create a YouTube tutorial to help everyone make these charming sleepover sets themselves.
This box was a hit, and it was heartwarming to see so many of our sewing enthusiasts dive into the spirit of the event. Whether you stitched up a storm or simply enjoyed the creative buzz, it was a fantastic way to start the new year!
Ellowyne Wilde's Stunning January Statement Piece
This January, Tamara Casey wowed us again with the "Statement Piece" pattern for Ellowyne Wilde, featured in our Wilde Fashion Subscription. The design features a chic, single-shoulder bodice paired with two skirt options: a playful textured bubble skirt and an elegant floor-length version, each completed with a striking nine-petal shoulder accent.
Bonus Pattern: Tamara also created this pattern for RTB101 dolls, and Grace looks STUNNING!
For those eager to try their hand at these glamorous designs, Tamara has also provided a YouTube tutorial to guide you through each step with ease. It’s been inspiring to see our subscribers personalize these outfits, turning them into true fashion statements for their dolls!
Historical Grace Subscription Brings the 1890s to Life
For the latest release in our Historical Grace Subscription, Tamara Casey has meticulously designed the "Tailor Made" pattern, capturing the essence of the 1890s fashion. This ensemble features a walking suit perfect for Grace dolls or those with RTB101 body. The suit includes a fully lined fitted jacket adorned with leg-of-mutton sleeves and a ruffled peplum, paired with a high-neck, short-waisted sleeveless top and a floor-length paneled A-line skirt. For detailed guidance, Tamara has created a YouTube tutorial to help enthusiasts recreate this vintage elegance with ease.
Community Creations Shine with the Tailor Made Pattern
Our VDC community has truly outdone themselves this month with their stunning interpretations of the Tailor Made pattern. Below, we are excited to share photos showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of our sewers. Each member brought their unique style to life through diverse fabric choices and personal twists on the design. A heartfelt bravo to everyone involved! Your craftsmanship continues to inspire and impress us all!
Fashion Flashback: The 1890s Walking Suit
In the late 19th century, the walking suit became a symbol of the new, modern woman who was both active and visible in the public sphere. This era's walking suits reflected a blend of practicality and elegance, essential for the everyday activities of Victorian women. Characterized by their structured design, these suits typically featured a fitted jacket with leg-of-mutton sleeves and a peplum that flared at the waist—a nod to the era's emphasis on an hourglass silhouette. The high-neck, short-waisted tops were often worn under the jackets, providing modesty while the long A-line skirts allowed for ease of movement.
1889 House of Worth Walking Suit
The walking suit not only represented a woman's practical needs for mobility but also her desire to participate actively in society. With intricate tailoring and detailed fittings, these garments highlighted the craftsmanship of the time and stood as a statement of the wearer's status and style. Today, the walking suit remains a fascinating study in fashion evolution, reminding us of the dynamic history of women's wear and the societal shifts that accompanied it.
1892-1894 Two Piece Walking Dress
Meet Tamara Casey at the Ohio National Doll Show!
We are thrilled to announce that Tamara Casey will be joining Robert Tonner and the VDC Team for an enchanting evening at the 2025 Ohio National Doll Show. Mark your calendars for a Dark Academia-themed Gala Dinner on October 4th, where you can meet Tamara in person along with the entire VDC Crew. The festivities continue with a grand doll show on October 5th, offering more surprises and fun.
Spaces for the Gala Dinner are limited to just 125 guests, so don't wait to register! Secure your spot now for this exclusive event and be part of a memorable weekend celebrating the art of doll collecting with fellow enthusiasts and creators.
Learn more about the Ohio National Doll Show here and Register for the Ticketed Meal Events on the UFDC Website.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Tamara Casey
Thank you, Tamara, for everything you do to make doll collecting and sewing not only more enjoyable but also accessible to everyone! Your creativity and dedication truly enrich our community. We eagerly anticipate your wonderful creations for February and can't wait to see what you have in store.
For those who want to keep up with Tamara's latest projects, be sure to visit her website and follow her on social media for the most current updates. Also, remember to bookmark the VDC schedule and refresh it often to stay informed about upcoming unboxings where Tamara will showcase her pattern of the month. Your continued support makes all the difference, and we look forward to sharing more beautiful designs with you!
