newbie here - my first two dresses for my daughter!

Hi!  I'm new to this forum.  I've been sewing for a few years, but only simple things like curtains and pillows - straight lines.  I finally decided to branch out and try things that intimidate me...and what do you know, I can actually do it!     I'm super-proud of my first two (wearable) dresses for my 5yo...the halter was quick, and I'll be making one or two more for the summer.  The "cinco de mayo" dress as I call it, was my first foray into gathering.  I cannot believe how much easier it is than I thought it would be.  I definitely have been bitten by the bug. 

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3562/3501481142_7e0e51cc86.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3371/3500668953_4a82d63e6b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3644/3500698365_f106ff7869.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3575/3501478526_1d428072b5.jpg

I sure hope I posted these correctly! 

Rachel / applecake33

Cute, cute, cute!!!! Your dd looks adorable What pattern did you use for the halter dress? I think I have the pattern for the second gathered dress. I just started making clothes for my dd too.

Adorable. I really love that halter dress!! I can't believe they are your first 2. They look fantastic!! Your DD looks so sweet in her new dress.

Thank you!!!  The halter dress is Simplicity 5531, and the other one is McCalls 5649.   

And for the record, these are the first two WEARABLE dresses I've made - ha ha!  My first attempts were just so sad.  The one "dress" ended up having to be a top (I had yet to understand the concept of "lengthening"), but the armholes nearly cut off her circulation, so she only wore it once!!!  But that's how we learn, right?   

I like the matching purse too!

Thanks! I bought that pattern Simplicity 5531 and found it in my stash. I am going to have to make it now that I see yours. Like I said its adorable.

Great job!  They both are lovely and your cutie obviously likes the Cinco de Mayo dress! The matching handbag is also a great idea.  Definitely worth making more