Oooooh I love girlie-girl dresses! Husband and I were invited to his cousin Stephanie's wedding last weekend. The sweltering Ontario heat screamed for a cool summer dress, and besides, everything I own is black, black or black...not inappropriate for a summer wedding, but can be a bit drab in my opinion. Here, I used a piece of fabric from my stash, a challis I believe, in a black background with vivid pink and purple flowers. Like?
I bought this pattern on sale for $1.99, and was drawn to the versatility of the various options (see pattern pic below). I decided to go with the side gathers and side drape, as well as short sleeves. I was a little concerned that the side drape would make my hips look wider, but I'm surprised at how flattering it is. I think this pattern would actually be suitable on many body shape types; the cross-over top is shapely, the waistline and runching gathers are slimming and add definition, and the drape is elegant and feminine.
Husband and I got dressed up, and headed off to the Green Door restaurant for lunch before going to the church for the wedding ceremony. A lady walking by near the restaurant told us we looked "just gorgeous"...this pattern, with the side drape, really did make me feel glamorous. It's not often we get all dolled up, such fun!
I was so pleased with how this dress came together that I promptly chose 3 other fabrics and cut out different variations of this pattern, assembly is ongoing but I'll post pics as I finish them. I added some length to the skirt, because I prefer skirts that skim or come just below the knee. I usually have to modify my tops to ensure my cleavage is adequately covered, but here the sizing was right-on and the muslin fit beautifully across the chest. I did, however, add 1.5 inches to the the waistline on the top. I have a long torso, and find dresses with a seamline across the waist is usually placed too high, usually it winds up halfway between my chest and waist. so I added length to the front and back top pieces. Worked like a charm!
This one is a keeper, give it a try!
Here are the pattern and technical drawings:
Here are the comments I posted on patternreview.com:
Pattern Description:
Misses' dress with sleeve and bodice variations including flattering drape and ruffle detail.
Pattern Sizing:
A (8-18)
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Definitely!
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, no problems.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the styling, I felt very fancy-schmancy with the side drape - it's not something I ever envisioned myself wearing, and it looked great!
Fabric Used:
Rayon challis (I believe, it's been in my stash so long I don't know for sure)
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I added to the length of the skirt by 2" but otherwise it was great. The sizing was well done, I usually have to raise the neckline on tops to ensure my cleavage is reasonably covered, but when I made the muslin it was already perfect...sexy for evening, but still appropriate for work.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
After making the first one, I promptly cut up 3 more versions in different fabrics, will post shortly :-)
