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BurdaStyle Magazine: 01-2011-108 (knit shirt dress) - Type:Dresses    printable version
Viewed 169 times
Review rated Very Helpful by 2 people   
Reviewed by:Elizabeth made this
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Friend of PR
About Elizabeth made thisstarstar
CO USA
Member since: 8/8/07
Reviews written: 87
Sewing skills:Intermediate
Favored by: 15 people
patterns reviewed: 85
Bio: more...
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Posted on:3/5/13 11:39 AM
Project Photo:photo
Pattern Photo:

Pattern Info provided by Elizabeth made this

Pattern Rating:Recommend, with Modifications
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Fabric:Modal Blend Jersey Knit  [See other projects in this fabric]
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Pattern Description: knit shirt dress

Pattern Sizing:36-44

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?yes

Were the instructions easy to follow?yes--no surprises here.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?the collar is beautiful, and theoretically it's a great dress for colder months with boots and maybe a cardigan or jacket over it

The sleeves have classic cuff detailing but at an elbow length which is cute and unexpected.

Fabric Used:Ella Moss modal jersey from Harts Fabric and a poly spandex knit to line it as it was too sheer on its own

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
The easy part--I shortened it by 5" as otherwise it would've hit me mid-calf making it even more matronly!

I also added the lining as there is quite a good bit of ease in this dress. I've sadly learned the hard way that when Burda doesn't allow you extra ease for a lining, you shouldn't add one even if you're smart enough to make it work. The Murphy's Law of Burda dictates that if there isn't a lining, there's something with that pattern that makes a lining not work. In the case of this pattern, it's the need for drape. The dress itself is shapeless and must be styled with a belt to add a waist to it and the lining adds unnecessary bulk at the middle.


Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?I still have hope for this dress as a pattern, but the right knit is all important. It must be stable (for the sake of 15 buttonholes), have good drape and not too much bulk. If you find that magic combo, you'll sail through making this dress and you'll end up with a classic look that's easy to accessorize in the colder months of the year.

Conclusion: I'm pretty sure my issues with this one were user inflicted. More on my blog.
~E Made This

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8 Comments      Login to Add a Comment
julibchickadee said...
This is really cute! I remember seeing this fabric over on Hart's Fabric awhile ago. I really love how you placed the print on the dress - its very flattering! :-)
3/5/13 12:43 PM
michellep74 said...
Very cute dress! I love the idea of a knit shirtdress!
3/5/13 2:18 PM
Speech girl said...
Your dress looks lovely. Thanks for the review.
3/5/13 5:13 PM
style inspired said...
Lovely version. did you make the size according to your measurements or go smaller? I'm asking because my mother made this dress for me as I loved it so much, but was surprised at how shapeless it is when finished. I wear it with a narrow belt. I think the looseness of the dress is a reason why they show it with a wide belt.
3/5/13 7:58 PM
mmcp said...
It's a really pretty dress--so frustrating when you're not happy and it's so beautifully made! Maybe next time go with a slim slip if it's too sheer? Anyway, I love the pattern on the fabic, and don't think it looks like you're all washed out from the photo, but maybe a scarf at the neck would help if you don't feel it's flattering...
3/5/13 8:07 PM
Danvillegirl said...
That fabric is truly perfect for this dress!
3/6/13 5:33 AM
Elizabeth made this said...
I went with my usual 32 in the neck and shoulders and 34 everywhere else. If you look at the line drawing, it's completely boxy--to fix it you'd either have to eliminate the back pleat or reshape the side seams.
3/6/13 1:02 PM
Heatherrique said...
That is one very stylish dress!
3/6/13 1:06 PM
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