Pattern Description:
Butterick pattern 5813, a Retro pattern from 1956. This is a fitted, fully lined dress with princess seams, left side extension and side snap or zipper closure.
Pattern Sizing:
Pattern size 14 through 22. I used size 16 with adjustments for a full bust.
Fabric Type
A grey, herringbone, wool blend.
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?
Generally, they were very easy to follow, as long as all of the markings were utilized. Some of the lining instructions were a little confusing as well as the instructions for the zipper.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
It's a classic that will never go out of style and has the option for a slim look or full skirt.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I adjusted the pattern for a full bust. I also added two pin tucks on the skirt and added some beading on the collar. For a little fun and an updated evening look, I made a rhinestone studded, grey, purple and pink belt and a small bow that can be attached above the back slit that matched my shoes.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, yes, YES! It is a gorgeous dress that flatters most figures. Most importantly though; not only is the dress beautiful and classic, it makes me feel beautiful and classic when I wear it.
Conclusion:
I had so much fun making this dress. I was happy to discover that the rules allowed the dress to be done in any neutral as I have several black dresses, so I decided to do it in grey. When I showed my mother, who graduated in 1954, the pattern envelope she was doubtful, but she was really impressed with the look and fit of the finished product. She summed it up pretty well when she told me, "Boy does that take me back!" I was so inspired by the classic look and her response that I decided to do my hair and makeup in the style of the 50's in her honor for the pictures. This one is a new wardrobe staple for me and I plan to make the version with the full skirt in the future.
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I have this pattern. It makes me want to drop everything and sew it. I could see your picture. Any chance you can fix that? Great Job!
11/30/12 0:12 AM
I am trying to figure out what's up with the picture. I have more photos of details.
11/30/12 0:19 AM
Now all you need is a "... pink cadillac..." Terrific!
11/30/12 5:14 AM
My husband, "the computer man" is going to see what I am doing wrong after work tonight so my photos will post. BTW thanks for the comments. Maybe I'll ask Santa for a pink cadillac. I'll need some fairy dust for that.
11/30/12 11:36 AM
Great dress! Looks fine on you
11/30/12 4:28 PM
from what I can see, lovely dress!
11/30/12 5:09 PM
Wow! Great! What a dress! I have just bougth this pattern - I cannot wait to sart working on it...
11/30/12 6:27 PM
You look great! I like your fabric choice for this dress.
11/30/12 6:37 PM
Lovely. I am so glad you were able to get your pics to work. Thank you hubby.
11/30/12 7:41 PM
Oh, yeah- great job- this is classic and lovely. The fabric choice is really fab.
12/1/12 9:19 AM
This is gorgeous and vampy. As I scrolled through the photos , I was thinking:" wow! she really has that 50's look with the hair and makeup. You did a great job, and styled it well.
12/2/12 7:39 AM
Wonderful dress and great styling!
12/4/12 7:26 AM
Super lovely and very classy!
12/4/12 3:49 PM
Very stylish! Love how you have your hair and makeup too :) Your version makes me want to buy this pattern!
2/9/13 8:55 AM