Pattern Description: Misses' Evening Dress with Ruffle and Sleeve variations, Cummerbund and Bag
This pattern is a 75th anniversary piece - it looks to be 1930s retro, although nothing is mentioned about this being a vintage reproduction. The styling of the photos sure look it, though.
Pattern Sizing: HH [6-8-10-12] I made a size 12.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? I suppose - although the print is nothing like the cover art, so you have to look carefully to see the similarities!
Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions seem to be clear, although I only glanced at them. They are the two columned Simplicity instructions which are not my favorite layout, but what can you do?! I really have no right to complain, though, since I rarely do more than glance at the instructions to make sure I am on the right track.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the long length and the back skirt inset.
The cuffs are what first caught my eye, though!
Fabric Used:
*Rayon Challis
*Seam Binding
*12" zipper
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I added 3/4" to the torso length.
I shortened the sleeves by 1/2" and I shortened the skirt length by 1/2".
I just love the sleeve cuffs, but I did have to tack them down more than the instructions suggested. I cannot say if this is a drafting issue, or my choice of lightweight fabric. Perhaps a much heavier interfacing would have fixed this issue.
The weight of the cuffs do pull at the neckline, even with my light-weight rayon, so I added a ribbon & snap bra holder to each shoulder. What the heck are those things called?
As drafted, the low back on this dress requires special undergarments. I did not want to deal with that, so I raised and changed the back line. This also required a change to the back facing.
And finally, I omitted the lining - mostly to save money and time (I did not have anything suitable in the stash). As the directions use the lining as an underlining, there were no real changes to make.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I may have to pull out the cuff pattern out to use again - I really like the look! And the skirt pieces are wonderful . . . next time I need a long skirt, I may have to give this pattern a second look.
If you have this pattern in your stash, I would recommend pulling it out. I think it makes up a lovely frock.
Conclusion: I love this fabric, and I am glad I finally found a dress for it!
As always, more pictures may be found on my blog, Lilacs & Lace. |
What a glamourous dress! Well done!
1/3/13 1:00 AM
Fabulous! A highly distinctive and stylish garment.
1/3/13 3:46 AM
Lovely dress on you. i love how dramatic the fabric is.
1/3/13 5:34 AM
Beautiful dress! Love your design changes and fabric choice.
1/3/13 6:58 AM
Beautiful dress. You can't imagine how I envy you your straight, elegant back! Everything you wear looks so striking. Thanks for sharing.
1/3/13 7:43 AM