I’ve been sewing like crazy lately, really wanting to finish up several projects that have been hanging around undone for way too long. It was over two years ago that I bought the fabric to make this dress.
This is another in Simplicity’s line of Amazing Fit patterns. They are great for those who are learning how to fit patterns as they give tips and instructions throughout telling you where to baste, then check for fit and what you should be looking for. Also, key fitting areas have 1-inch seam allowances.
Today I sewed the last stitch on this dress. If I’d realized how light the fabric was before I got started, I may have underlined it for a bit of support.
Time to get some strappy black sandals so I can wear this to a wedding next month. 🙂
Simplicity 2174 Pattern Review
Pattern Description: Dress in 2 lengths, with short, three-quarter sleeves or sleeveless, two shaped neckline options and in-panel pockets.
Pattern Sizing: My pattern envelope only went up to a 14, but I needed a few more inches. I was very thankful for the 1-inch seam allowances!
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, it’s cute.
Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions are great for those learning how to get a good fit in garments.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I Love, LOVE patterns that have different pattern pieces for A,B, C & D cups; this saves so much aggravation. I wasn’t sure about the pockets, but they turned out surprisingly flattering and very practical.
All that basting and trying on for fit is tedious, but worth it. 🙂
The short sleeves are quite short. I debated about making the longer sleeves and wish I had (but I was thinking about this being a summer weight dress.)
Fabric Used: A 100% rayon challis from Fabric.com. It’s a bit flimsy, and could have stood an underlining.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I used much narrower seam allowances in order to get a good fit (probably could have started with a size 16.)
I used an invisible zipper, so didn’t sew the bottom of the center back seam until the zip was installed.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I don’t wear dresses very often, so I probably won’t. Also, after looking at this one, I think I prefer princess seam dresses without a waistline seam.
I would recommend lining at least the bodice if you use a lightweight fabric.
Conclusion: A cute and easy dress with helpful fitting tips in the pattern.
Oh, you look so good in red! How do you wash a rayon challis??
Rayon doesn’t really shrink, but I always wash fabrics before cutting them out, just in case. So this will go right in with the regular wash. This dress, being so light, will go into a lingerie bag.
That makes sense–most lingerie is made of rayon, isn’t it? Was the fabric difficult to work with?
Nope, not difficult at all. That’s why I love challis, it has a nice heavy drape, but isn’t slinky and slippery to work with.
Have you been sewing lately?
That’s interesting. I learn so much from you! No, I’ve been working on book stuff that unfortunately doesn’t show up anywhere. Yet.
Yay, book stuff! We wants more books from you, so never mind about the sewing. 😉
I Googled this pattern because I’ve had it for awhile but wanted to see how it looks on a real body. This is super flattering! Now I’m excited to make it. I was thinking red with white or ivory piping along the neckline and pocket edges, so I’m really happy to see that your red one looks so nice. Congratulations on the lovely dress, and thank you for the inspiration.
I’m so glad you were encouraged and inspired, Jeanne. That’s what I’m here for. 🙂