M5423

Pattern Description:
Misses Knit Dress

Pattern Sizing:

8-22

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

I don't think so because of the changes I made.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Very easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I like the overall silhouette of the design.

Fabric Used:

I think it's a lightweight polyester knit but as with most of the Walmart fabrics the end of the bolt said "fiber of unknown origin".

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:

I made a 1" FBA and rotated the subsequent dart to the center front but it wasn't enough. When I sewed the 1 1/4" seam under the bust, the seam was much higher than it should have been. Also I realized that the elastic under the bust was either not age appropriate or was just not a good look on me. I removed the elastic and unpicked the casing. I resewed the under bust seam at 1/4" and really liked how it looked. Not only did I omit the facing pieces, I threw them away. For the life of me I could not figure out why I would ever need or use them. I simply turned under the 5/8" seam allowance and stitched it down. No extra bulk and lays very flat. I omitted the waist tie. I also ruched the center front the same depth as the amount added after rotating the dart. To take it up another notch I added a bow tie.

Then I took about 4" out of the hemline. I really like this dress now. I think the fabric print and the silhouette are very retro. And lastly I added a couple of tucks at the back waist to give it a bit more shaping.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

I will certainly sew this again I think it might wind up being my TNT simple knit dress pattern. If you have a large bust I'm not sure it would be a good look with the elastic but who knows.

I think it's time for me to dig through my stash to see what other fabrics I have available to make another one of these. I also have to get to work on the the latest pair of Painter's Tape slacks. Until next time...