I’m a sucker for a bargain, and when Simplicity had a recent half price sale I couldn’t help have a little peek to see if there was anything that I liked the look of.
The pattern that I treated myself to was Simplicity S9454 which I bought from Sew Direct here.
It’s a sweet adult/child matching dress or tunic pattern which has the following features..
- Over the head design with a single button back closure
- Dropped shoulder puffed 3/4 length sleeve or short soft pleated sleeves
- calf length tiered skirt
- round bias finished neckline
- Gentle gathers into the neckband at the shoulder seams
- Pockets!
Whilst I have sewn lots of dresses with similar designs, I particularly liked the gathers into the neckband on this pattern and the dropped sleeves.
I chose to accessorize this outfit with the silver mirror acrylic thimble necklace on a silver plated chain from my shop here.
The fabric that I used is this very Autumnal moss green leopard print viscose that I picked up from Neils Fabrics in Milton Keynes. Bargain price and great quality as usual. I.m glad that I went for a viscose, as the drape that is achieved is perfect.
The size to make was a bit of a gamble, which is why I used this less expensive fabric, I suppose this was a bit of a toile with my fingers crossed tightly that it would be the right size as I love the fabric so much. Sometimes the ‘big four’ patterns can be a little generous with the ease in their sizing, so as I would with any pattern, I checked out the finished bust size measurements and went with the size small. I’m always wary of being swamped with a loose fitting dress especially as I am not very tall, and this size worked out just right.
The pattern comprises of several pieces, so it’s not a quick sew. Nevertheless it is a very satisfying make and I really enjoyed the process.
Alterations that I made to the pattern before cutting it out were ..
- I shortened the bodice pieces by 1″
- I shortened the sleeve piece by 1″
- I omitted to cut out pattern piece no.4 (the loop for the button back closure) as I prefer to use very thin elastic for this
The pattern instructions were very easy to follow. I do like Simplicity instructions.
As mentioned above I don’t often make a thin fabric strip to make the loop for button back closures. It’s just too fiddly. I mostly use that really thin round 1mm elastic cord (that shoes are sometimes paired with – always keep that)! The button was a perfect match for the green, although you would not believe how long it took me to decide between this and a pretty shiny black button.
I am delighted to report that the sleeves are the perfect amount of pouffiness – enough to make a statement, but not too much so as they catch on door handles. If you know you know. How sweet is the binding that they are finished with!
Overall, a great everyday dress. No complaints from me 🙂
Take care and I’ll be back soon,
Kathy x
Don’t forget to find me on Instagram @sew_dainty x
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