New Pattern Drop, the Sia Dress from Marsha Style

So I did a thing. I pattern tested.

It wasn’t something on my radar, but when Taree Marsh of Masha Style reached out to me to give a spin at her new pattern, I was all in. I was willing mainly because I love her style, clean, minimal with a cool edge…so anything she drafted would be up my alley.

Well, She. Did. Not. Disappoint! Her “Sia Dress” is a winner! I think my smile says it all.

Let’s start with the test pattern process. Taree provided the various files types; AO, both sheet or continuous and A4. I chose sheet printing of the AO files as I prefer the convenience of copy shops. She also started a Facebook group that allowed us to give quick feedback and updates regarding pattern changes or corrections. Easy, peasy.

As for the pattern, it comes in a wide range of sizes; from 2 – 22. Seams allowances (3/8″) are included which was new to me, but I did like as opposed to the traditional 5/8″. There is pleating at the bust line and the front skirt with the option to adjust the bust size. It also comes in a midi or mini-length, lined and unlined with two sleeve treatments with an invisible zipper closure in the back. If you are new to sewing, the unlined version is the way to go.

I’m 5’4”, slim build, with a bust-size 35 1/2″ so I chose a size 6. I probably could have gone down a size, but I made adjustments through the center back seam to alter down the excess.

My fabric is from G Street Fabrics, the clearance room…my much lauded happy place where everything is $2.99/yard. It’s a quality cotton blend shirt-weight twill that drapes, but with just enough structure to make it dressy. I lined it in a very light weight off-white fabric from my stash. (“From my stash” is code for I don’t know where I bought or what it is. I pledge to do better. Lol!)

As for pattern drafting, the pieces came together well. There are a lot of notches that you do need to keep track of, but all very helpful. Be prepared though, this is a plunging neckline, so either you’re cool with the freedom of your girls or you’ll tack it up the center front like I did.

This is one of those patterns that’s totally open to your interpretation. Casual and short, which will be my next iteration or something dressier like this version. Either way, I absolutely love the femininity of this dress.

Construction

• I opted to add a gather to the hem of the sleeves so that they sit higher up on my arm.
• Rather than the double-folded narrow hem, I serged, then turned the hem up by an 1″ and blind hemmed it.

Alterations

Surprisingly…none!

Styling

SHOES: Steve Madden
EARRINGS: Heart hoops from Nordstrom Rack

I’m so happy to have been a part of this process. It was a great and supportive testing group and we shared lots of tips and kudos with another. Would I sew this pattern again, ABSOLUTELY. This is true #slowsewing that will bring lots of satisfaction.

You can purchase her pdf Sia Dress pattern here.

As always, all items constructed on my Husqvarna Viking No. 1 sewing machine and Huskylock 910 serger.