All winter I've been thinking about this particular dress pattern (out of print Vogue V7871). Last summer, I made two versions (
stretch denim and
modern linen print) and wore them relentlessly. The pattern fits perfectly, the shape suits my figure, and it looks effortlessly put-together (because, hey, if you've got a dress on you're put-together, right?!). So I've been thinking up new pocket configurations and looking out for fabrics for a new summers-worth of a-line dresses.
This version is made from a stretch bottomweight from Joann's. I've seen it in the stores for a few seasons now, and I finally broke down and bought it. This fabric is incredible. It washes and dries without needing ironing, is slightly stretchy, and has a nice, medium weight (so I don't feel like it needs a lining). Seriously, I wore this all day (coffee with a friend, nap with my toddler, trip to the park, etc.) and not a wrinkle in sight. Still baffled by those that think dresses are fussy--they certainly don't have to be!
I've had this hot pink belt (J.Crew) for a while and knew it was destined to go with this dress fabric, so I went ahead and put some belt loops on the sides to hold it in place. LOVE.
The pockets are dramatic slashes across the front (note: the original dress pattern has no pockets whatsoever). Maybe a bit too dramatic, but they are nicely concealed by the busy fabric. The front of the pocket is pale pink batiste.
For the inside, all edges were coverstitched (and I even was so compelled to change my serger cones to pale pink!).
Back invisible zipper, from the inside (not so invisible here!)
Does this print look like animal stripes to anyone else? From afar it could be some kind of zebra print, but up close, whoa! It's flowers!
It feels like such a win to make a fun, versatile dress for under $25 and 2.5 hours. I'm trying to decide how many versions of the same pattern I can make before it gets weird :)
March Resewlution 2014, garment #3. (Actually #4, but I'm waiting for the notions for a second version to reveal my "dress bloomers"....so, so excited about that!).
