Wrap Ture

It's been some time since I cut the pattern pieces for this dress. I had reservations to make this upon discovering the number of pieces and the cutting layout to make what seemed like an "easy" dress (the envelope was labeled "easy" and I thought that was misleading!. The actual construction of the dress was a breeze compared to the tedious cutting!


The cut pattern pieces of "the" dress has been aging for months in its envelope. Now that I found a suitable fabric, it's about time to stop the procrastination and to listen to a famous athletic shoe classic advice, "Just Do It". Now I am so glad that I finally did it!
Pattern Description: As usual, not one available on a New Look envelope. Yes, it is a faux wrap shirred dress, a mock wrap dress with ruching on one side, etc. Also the dress has a princess type of seaming that flatters the front and back and collar, sleeve and waist tie options.
I sewed view C, the short sleeve dress.
Pattern Sizing:Misses 8-18. I sewed a 12.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?Yes, except I have a more "real-life" figure.
Were the instructions easy to follow?Yes, I read them just in case. The illustrations were helpful.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?It seemed as if I spent more time cutting the pieces than actually sewing the dress! As mentioned by other pattern reviewers for this pattern, it was easy to figure out where the pieces go as I can see from the illustrations! I used colored dot stickers on varrious parts of the dress to represent the little circles marked on the pattern pieces.
The neckline came somewhat low for me, but not too low that I need a camisole for modesty's sake. I was surprised the ruching on my left side came just below my bustline. I wonder how this would look on a person with a longer torso!
Fabric Used
A poly matte jersey from Gorgeous Things with a "Graphic Large Chevron Print". This fabric sews like a dream and is so comfortable! I chose to sew a 12 (using 5/8" seams) instead of a 14 due to its strecthability.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:I omitted the front and back facings for fear that the neckline will stretch! I opted instead to do a tiny zig zag stitch with a little gathering before folding over to make a 1/2" hem and topstitching. Next time, I will use invisible elastic to stabilize the neckline more.
One thing I wished was to orient the way the zig zags so that the "V" lands on my midsection. I admire those who could work with fabric with certain patterns and prints!
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?Yes! Yes! This dress is very easy to make and seems to be very flattering to women of all proportions! But watch out for the length of the bodice fronts and back. Being the one who was born with a short waist (unlike my "little" sister who is 6" taller than me and my 4 yo daughter) with respect to my average length legs, I have difficulty finding RTW dresses that fit me properly. Maybe this is why I have been more of a slacks gal. The "v" bodice back did not come low as I anticipated. I would have to adjust the length if I had a longer torso.
ConclusionI was relieved to finally make this dress after having the pattern pieces cut out months ago!
The actual construction of the dress was a breeze compared to the tedious cutting!
I can see why this dress is very popular! It's easy to make, fun to wear, and classy and trendy at the same time!
I received this sweet surprise:
----- Original Message ----- From: Gorgeous Things To: xxxxxxxxSent: Thursday, June 21, 2007 6:11Subject: I LOVE your dress!
Hi _____________,I just saw your New Look dress on PatternReview. It looks spectacular on you! You did a great job. I don't comment over there because I don't want to have any appearance of improper advertising. But I did want to tell you how well I thought it turned out. Great job!
Ann
Gorgeous ThingsFashion, Fabric and Fabulosity, all in one neat package!http://www.gorgeousthings.com/gorgeousthings.blogspot.com