Cult of Fleurs-onality

From 1973.


The use of this classic pattern stemmed from my experience with a UFO project, Butterick knit dress 5243. After cutting the pieces (which seemed to take more time than expected), I eagerly started stitching. I could not figure out why my machine behaved strangely with this poly knit because it felt similar to a ITY knit, which it had no problem sewing. I would get skipped stitches despite numerous needle, tension, and stitch changes. Once I switched to another project, I did not encounter problems. So the dress pieces along with the pattern stayed in a plastic bag for more than 6 months.

Then along came the opportunity to revisit this dress due to the UFO (unfinished objects) contest. Things were running smoothly when I was able to sew the attach the sleeves to the upper bodice and gather the lower edge of the bodice until I attached the facing to the neckline. My stitching went haywire. Then I looked at it and told myself this will not work. It was confirmed when I slipped it over my head and my instinct was correct- this dress was not meant for me. I probably made a goof somewhere or the dress's style does not work for me. This project was tainted from the beginning.

So, I shifted gears and decided to try this Simplicity pattern from 1973. I found remaining fabric from previous projects and shortened the dress pattern to create two tops. Then for my third version, I decided to cut the top from the skirt (against the grain, due to size constraints)originally intended for THAT Butterick knit dress. Now, I feel relieved to eliminate this fabric from my UFO list.

Pattern Description:
From 1973: "The flared dress has low round neckline, back zipper, and top-stitching trim. Short dress V. 1 has long set-in sleeves. Long dress V. 2 has short set-in sleeves."


Pattern Sizing:
Misses' size 12, bust 34

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?Yes, except I shortened the dress pattern into one for a top.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes, from all my experiences with a pattern from the "Jiffy" series. As usual, clear illustrations are included.
First version




Third version

Fabric Used:
Poly knit from GorgeousFabrics. All came from fabric that I used in previous projects.


Favorite Features
* Scoop neckline
* Curved contour at side seams that work nicely with my figure
* Gathered style at sleeve caps that balance what's below the bustline


There is nothing to dislike about the pattern except for the facings which I excluded. However, I would use the facings if I create the dress version in a double knit because it would look much better with a non-topstitched neckline.



Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

To preserve the original pattern, I traced the front, back, and sleeve pieces onto gift wrap tissue paper. It was easy to make any necessary adjustments.

*Omitted the front and back facings

*For my second and third versions, I took in the upper center back seam by 3/4" to eliminate some gaping that I experienced in my first version.

* Removed the added 1/4" at the armscye, or in other words, I did not have to change the armscye of the original pattern.

* Shortened the upper back by making a horizontal fold with a width of 3/4".

*Made my usual 3/4" petite adjustment between the bust and hips.

*Traced a short sleeve pattern piece from the long sleeve pattern piece.

*Staystitched 1/4" from the neckine, folded the edge under at the staystitching and topstitched



Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

After making three of these, still a big YES! It is one of those easy and gratifying things to sew. I definitely recommend this and other Jiffy patterns to sewists at all levels. Jiffy patterns are "easy chic". I confess that what I have been wearing out often are my poly knit tops created from Simplicity or McCall "carefree" (anyone remember?) patterns from the 1970's. The simple style of a deep (but not too deep) scoop neck with some shaping at the sides work best with my figure and just a change of fabric can significantly alter the personality of the garment.


Conclusion:

I have been usually successful with patterns from the 1970's. With little or no alterations, I have been very fortunate to have something that fits BETTER than current RTW. Suppose I have 10 garments to try on in department store dressing room. I would be lucky to have ONE that fits decently. I have better luck fitting into something I sewed straight from the pattern envelope...