Newbie: Need help finding an outfit I can wear in hot weather

[isabelladangelo]

You don't want it to open at the sides.  A bodice is meant to support you.   You want something lightweight and that is out of natural fibers.

I think this pattern is more like what you would like and would also be comfortable (as well as acceptable at all fairs). 



It's a Simplicity pattern and you can make it out of that lovely purple linen that Joann's carries.   

Also, etsy is not like a regular store - I doubt that you can cancel or return any item.  The bodice is fine for cooler weather but not if you want something that will keep you cool.  I think I mentioned it before, but if not, the more skin you show, the more hot you will feel.  The reason is that there is nothing to "wick" the sweat away from your body to help cool you off as well as the fact the sun will beat down directly on your skin with nothing inbetween. 

[Adriana Rose]

For super hot days I wear just a short sleeved peasnt blouse, a light weight skirt. And I tie a shash around my waist. Though I have the vest pattern that is above and I really want to make one for me I made one for my mom and she loves it.

[gem]

I just stumbled across a lovely custom-made dress on etsy, very reminiscent of Lady Renee's--all cotton, open up the sides, nice and breezy, under $100: Twill Italian Gown

A small peek:



And click here for a large photo of the whole dress worn by a model. Pretty!!