Hey Loves! Here we are. Finally at my favorite time of year. The soft beginnings of summer…when I can wear all the pretty things and have pretty hair before the heat and humidity join the party. This DIY look is perfect to sew for this time of year.
At the intersection of a great fabric and a great pattern is this dress. I’ve had some sewing fails where I picked the wrong fabric or I picked the wrong pattern for my shape, but these two were made for each other. And you know me…I can’t pass on a ruffle, statement sleeve or v-neckline.
The dress is a Vogue dress pattern (V9311) that came out in 2018. It’s been at the front of my sewing queue just waiting for the right fabric. Because it’s such a simple pattern, it needed something unique and this dreamy abstract challis print from LA Finch Fabrics was the perfect fit.
Construction/Alterations
Full disclosure, I fell for the pattern suggestions on the envelope knowing full well how generous the sizing can be on the round-up of McCalls’s patterns, (Butterick, Vogue, McCalls and Simplicity). I masked it by tying the belt extra tight, but you can see it mostly through the drape at the shoulders and the fullness at the hips. It wasn’t worth the effort to edit out so I’ll live with it. Bonus points because it has pockets!
- Very little editing was needed. This is rated as a “Very Easy” pattern and it does have an uncomplicated construction process. I chose to close the neckline a bit to hide my bra, but I could have closed it more.
- I did add a lining because the fabric isn’t completely opaque. The bias used to finish the neckline therefore wasn’t needed. I simply duplicated the bodice and skirt pieces for the lining. I then sewed the lining in-full then attached that to the dress at the neckline. Super easy.
If you are new to sewing, this is a great entry-level pattern. There are no challenging construction techniques just stra. On to the next project!
Styling
Shoes: “Braida Aleena” sandal by Stuart Weitzman
Jewelry: Monogram “D” by Helzberg Diamonds
This is just stunning, you look amazing. Thank you for bringing this pattern to my attention.
I’m so glad you this is now on your radar. It’s a great pattern and thank you for the kind comment!