SIX SPRING DRESSES - First Dress is Simplicity 8640. This is Day 182 of 365 Sewing Makes Challenge
Story of This Garment
Long ago (two years!) when I was a very new beginner sewer, I saw someone on RU-vid sew and show this dress. It is the very first garment I have ever seen sewn that I ordered the pattern for. I have finally got around to making it. And what better time than in a bevy of spring dresses.
Fabric and Pattern
The fabric is a Rayon Challis from Fabricland. It is a beautiful floral print on a navy blue background. I quite love it. The fabric is just the right drape and weight for this pattern. The pattern is Simplicity 8640. It has three versions. A shorter or longer version of a tunic or a dress length. It is a 2019 release.
Construction
This pattern comes in a tunic and dress length. I am short 5'1" so I made the tunic length for a dress. The two interesting features of this dress are the pockets, which are gathered and then sewed to an inner pocket so they have a gathered look, and the front seam which is a bodice yoke with a deep V in it and a seam up the centre of the front and the back. In a fit of efficiency, I put the centre back on a fold rather than sewing a centre seam. This necessitated the need for me to put a pleat in the back of the neck so the neck interfacing would fit. I think the pleat is okay and adds to the flowiness of the dress, but I should have calculated it a little better. The dress went together easy and fast. A few days ago, I saw someone sew and share it on instagram and they had mentioned to be sure to move the pockets up. I was so glad I heard that first. I moved them up 6 inches. I I had left them where they were, they would have been rather usless.
Fit and sizing
The pattern comes in US size 10 to18. I cut a 14 and it is plenty roomy.
Final Word and Advice
This is a great pattern. It would certainly lend itself to colour blocking. I would love to make it again in a linen. The interesting detail of the front seams and pockets are kind of lost in the print of this version. But I do love this version. It is as comfortable as a nighty. I know it will be cool for summer. My advice is the same advise I followed....move up the pockets. The first step in the pattern is to make the pockets and put them on. I made them but didn't put them on the dress until I could try it on and place the pockets.
Grateful Thread
To cultivate an attitude of gratitude I end each post with something I am grateful for. Today I am very, very grateful from the bottom of my heart for all the kind words, prayers and encouragement our family recently received due to a health issue with a family member. There are so many good and kind people in the world.
22 мар 2021
