Francoise - a touch of the psychedelic!

Something a little different, the Francoise 60s shift.

#SewingFrancoise

This isn't my usual type of dress and I wasn't going to give it a go, because I do love a sew-a-long and Tilly gives such clear instructions, also I thought I had the fabric in my stash, so that was the decision made.  Unfortunately my plan to use some cheap crepe for the dress was completely squashed when it stretch horribly and seemed to have a stomach of its own, not flattering at all.  So I had to buy some more Brussel's washer linen (more Robert Kaufman) in my favourite colour, mist.  The sleeves are left over from my other shift dress.  I just love this fabric, it's so comfortable and doesn't crease.

I love the raglan sleeves, very comfortable and pretty easy to fit.

I originally cut a size 5 in the bust and graded down to a 4 at the waist.  Because of the clingy tummy when I made the linen version I graded back out so the finished dress is a straight size 5 .  Now I think it could be a little snugger in the waist.  Still it means there is plenty of room for a bit of a watusi!

I did add an extra 3" to the length, not because I don't like the mini version on others, but I think those of us who actually did wear the mini in the sixties may need a few extra inches now!  Because the linen is rather thin, I did have to line the dress and that was a little fiddly.  I lined the dress part, attaching the lining to the facing and then slip stitching the lining to the shoulders.    I machined the lining to the zip to get a nice neat finish.

 

 

 
The tab is a cute feature, though from the photos I think I need to check that it is quite level, it may well be the way I stand!

All in all I think though this won't be one of my favourite dresses it is a good pattern, fairly straightforward with very clear instructions (backed up by the sew-along).    Tilly has been running a competition, with great prizes, and I'm sure there will be some fabulous entries. 

Not much else to say this week, lovely lunch with Dan today.  Lots of wind and rain in Cumbria.   Very busy at work and so looking forward to the break at Christmas. Hope you all have a great week, I'm sure many of you are extremely busy with Christmas preparations.