Stalemate over - M5975

Well my sewing stalemate is over. I started right in on a garment that I've needed for ever...a black dress. I'm not totally satisfied with it. Could be that I did everything wrong. First my fabric probably didn't have enough stretch to totally get the desired look. The pattern is described as close-fitting but I had no desire to look like a stuffed sausage. I decided to make sure I had enough room by cutting a size 16 in the neck and front armhole with a 24 for the remainder. I also went into overkill when I added additional 1" side seams. Let's just say my stupidity even amazes me sometimes! I wound up taking about 2 1/2" side seams which almost negated my bust darts including the vertical ones I added. The armholes are way uncomfortable (small) and installing a center back seam zipper as the pattern instructs was simply asinine! I should have added one inch to the hem when I added 1 1/2" to the bodice front and back. Going to have to put a very small hem in. I'm going to omit the facings as I hate them on knits. The good part is that I don't think it looks too bad especially since I bought this "pebble polyester double knit" fabric at a yard sale this past summer for $1 for 2 1/2 yards. I didn't feel like putting on makeup and barely combed my hair. I'll post more pictures when I get all dolled-up. Static cling wasn't helping and I should have had on a body shaper! The question is...how much more work should I put into a $1 dress??