First Simplicity 8511, and just in case it isn't obvious this is the one I like, but it really was a nightmare to make.
I cut my ususal size 14, though looking at the photos it could have been a little more fitted.
I love, love the sleeves, I removed 1/2" from the length (and they are still a bit too long) , but the main difficulty was that the cuffs were far too big by at least 3". You can see below that I have had to overlap the cuffs which you aren't supposed to.
The main problem was due to bulk. This crepe is quite heavy and doesn't press. The neckband was particularly bad, although I love the look of it, you end up with 8 layers at the shoulder seams, and although the zip went in really well, it was awful at the top (and rooky mistake but I actually poked the corner though on one side and had to resort to a bit of glue! The kick-pleat was bulky and difficult to hem (better to just have a slit), and the sleeves had lots of bulk in the seams. The cuffs were cut in 2 parts and they could be made in one, so cutting down on bulk. With all this it, did the pattern go in the bin? No, cause actually I do like this dress and think it has a lot of potential with the right fabric (which unfortunately I haven't figured out yet), it needs to be lighter than this crepe, but still with some structure. Ideas welcome!
So one to the one I enjoyed sewing, particularly as I love this babycord from Higgs and Higgs, but I will never wear. This is the IAM Patterns Casiope, and there are some lovely versions.
I cut the size 42 (37" bust and I am 37.5"), however, even though I took 1" off each side seam and it is still enormous. Room for two more in here! Perhaps you need to be taller to pull it off! Or maybe the fabric isn't drapey enough. Likely a combination of all. Anyway, shame, but this one for the British Heart Foundation! Anyone made this with more success!
I actually like both dresses. Sometimes fabric choice can break a great style. In the bottom photo, I think it's a little large in the waist. Maybe a more lightweight fabric like challis or rayon blends?
ReplyDeleteYes I think you are right robin, something with more drape and a smaller size might do the trick.
ReplyDeleteI'm with you on the sewing experience as the end result does not seem to justify the effort.
ReplyDeleteReally like the first dress - a success!
Gosh it sounds like that first dress gave you some trouble! But well done for persisting it has turned out really beautifully! It takes real skill and patience to make something troublesome work like that.
ReplyDeleteI actually quite like the Cassiope on you, but agree that perhaps something lighterweight would feel less overwhelming. Lovely sewing job anyway and I always like to see not so successful projects posted alongside the triumphs, gives us all hope!