Hey Loves!
Summer may be winding down, but there’s still time to squeeze in some warm weather sewing. And you can start with this fabulous pattern!
When I first saw this Simplicity pattern, #9597, by Mimi G Style, I knew this would be a must sew for me. It’s got all the required elements for a great sew. It’s elegant and easy…and has pockets! But it’s the open back for me. Love handles be damned, y’all will just have to catch this jiggle because I’m not hiding it. 🙂
Cut-out dresses were everywhere this season, so of course I jumped right in. I’ve made three so far and I hope it’s a trend that stays. If not for the breeze that comes through, at least for the body positivity they generate.
So back to the pattern…because the design is so simple, it gives the fabric a chance to shine. For this DIY cut-out dress, I chose a colorful and fun print challis called Rippling Pool, from Minerva Fabrics. Here you can get a clear view of the print.
This 100% viscose fabric is very easy to work with. I pre-washed with cold water, hung it to dry and gave it a light press before sewing. I’ll use the same method of care for the dress. I specifically chose a flowing challis because of the gathers in the back and I wanted the movement it creates.
TIP: Always looks at the fabric content and drape description when choosing a fabric to get the desired look.
…from your sewing bestie
You can see here that the front is just as pretty. Simple, elegant, clean.
Construction/Alterations
As for the pattern, there were no challenging construction details. In fact, this is a great place to start for new sewists. I did have to remove some fabric from the back band though because it was a bit wide.
I also did not attached the strap in the back as instructed. I completed the dress and then simply stitched them in AFTER trying on the dress.
Of course, I love showing that final touch…the label.
Styling
You know I love mixing DIY’s and RTW. So I paired the dress with a white blazer to notch up the elegance and paired with these mesh net shoes. You could easily rock this with sandals or white sneakers for something more casual.
This dress gives me both date night and summer festival vibes.
Onto the next DIY look!
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