Magenta Apron - Part 1

First thing I do is trim the fabric selvege to use for the apron's pleated ruffle. It saves me the trouble of creating a rolled hem. The strip is 2" wide and I use a 1/2" seam allowance.  

For the shoulder straps I start with a 6" wide strip cut lengthwise with the grain and stitch 1/4" rolled hem on each side. Then I center my middle pleat, stitch, and the two side pleats. My finished pleated strap is about 2-3/4" wide.

Magenta Apron - Part 2

I find it easier to prepare the pleated trim before attaching it to the apron. Stitch your pleats in even intervals and then press them carefully. 

 The square base of the apron is 14" wide by 12½", with the bottom corners rounded slightly. Sew the trim onto the apron with a ½" seam allowance - you may need to pay special attention to any pleats that coincide with the corners. Prep your apron to be attached to the waistband by pressing the trim to the outside and pressing the double side darts across the top. The waist tie can be as long as you like (I usually go for 2 yards) by 5" wide. With a ½" seam allowance; sewn into a tube it will be 2" wide. Leave an opening in the center of the waist tie to attach the apron and the straps. I recommend sewing the waist tie closed on the back side of the apron by hand, careful not to let the hand stitching show on the front.

Magenta Apron - Part 3

All that's left to do is to secure the straps in front, then adjust and secure the straps in back. Trim the excess length, fold the trimmed edge under 1/4" and stitch by hand to the waist band. 

 Remember to leave enough slack in the straps. I also recommend rigging the apron straps to secure to the shoulder of the dress with a small piece of color-coordinated velcro or small snaps.