ha ha.... I just saw this thread. I was just looking around and I saw my screen name... what a surprise!!!
The dress is really cute... great job!! It is better than the first one I made
I teach my students both machine and hand sewing. A good hand stitch is always a nice skill to have.
As for the d ring -- I just looked at dresses I have purchased or even looked closely at pictures to see ways to attache d rings. You can make a little loop and sew it on with the skirt and cover it with the bow.
Many of my "designs" are from looking at other dresses and adding my own touch. Each dress gets a little better.
I am very proud of you!!!
Shinja