This pattern is a sleeveless dress with five variations. Each has a pleated neckline - one version is more scooped than the other - and a waistline seam with either flared skirt or pencil skirt with back vent. All versions come with a center back zip and three different belt styles.
The pattern comes in sizes 8 to 18. My bodice is a size 12, shaped into size 16 at the waist. The pencil skirt is a size 16, here I altered the shape to suit my curves.
Instructions were easy to follow and straightforward. However I wouldn't recommend this pattern to a beginner - maybe an experienced beginner - because the instructions don't mention when to finish (serge or zig zag) the edges for a clean finish. Also as a beginner it might be confusing that you have to add seam allowance to the armholes but everywhere else it is included. That is still a worry when picking out from one of the big pattern companies.
I chose to line the bodice with a soft silky fabric. I bought this fabric some time ago in Malaysia. I don't remember what I wanted to make with it but it was the perfect match for the blue main fabric. Plain from the outside, fun in the inside :)
I really liked the pleated detail at the neckline. Before I purchased the pattern, I saw different variations on Instagram and loved the neckline immediately.
I used a dark blue suiting fabric from the local shop here in Dubai. That day I looked for cheap suiting fabric to practice for this pattern and managed to find the perfect match in the remnant section. It has a light drape to it. I have the same fabric in grey too.
I made a couple of alterations to the pattern. The first toile I made as per the pattern, and noticed that the skirt is too long for my size and the waist and thighs were a little bit too snug. The shape of the skirt didn't suit my shape either. So I changed the shape based on the Sew Over It Ultimate Pencil Skirt and shortened the skirt by 7" so the skirt will be knee-length.
The bodice I kept as per the pattern but I changed from the high neckline to the scooped one as it looked better. Having worn the dress once in the office now, I find the lower neckline to revealing and next time will opt for an in-between neckline - not too low or high. I only used 1/2" seam allowance instead of the asked for 5/8". Overall, I managed to fit the second toile like a glove.
I would recommend this pattern to others as it is quick to sew and definitely sew it again
and would be keen to try some of the other versions. In different types of fabric this dress would look different each time. Considering the occasion of future dresses, I will alter the neckline in case I make another office version.
With the chosen fabric, this dress is a great addition to my work wardrobe. Once I get rid of my little belly, I am sure it would look even better.
Have you made this pattern before? What were your thoughts and changes? If you are planning to make it, I'd keen to know which fabric you are planning to use. Come and hang out and leave a comment below.
Thanks for hanging out with me.
Maria xxx
