This is it, dear friends, my entry for The Monthly Stitch Dresses Contest!
As you know from yesterday’s post, my Salme pattern attempt for the contest was a major fail. Luckily I had ordered another small containerseveral new patterns from Style Arc, including the Kate Dress. There also happened to be a bit of suitable knit fabric in my stash, so I was off and running.
Fit. Almost perfect. I think the shoulder seam angle could be adjusted a bit, but I am not sure about that. I did my usual petite-above-the-waist adjustment. Unlike some other reviewers on patternreview.com, the skirt length was perfect for me. I am not that tall (5’7″), but since about 5 feet of that is in my legs, the “too-long-for-many” skirt was just right for me. I guess you know why I always have to petite those bodices, now, too! 😉
Drafting. Up to Style Arc’s usual high standards. These pieces just fit together. Period.
Flattering. DVF nailed it, and others have been copying the look for years because it looks great on so many body shapes.
Styling. I actually really like the little tuck detailing on the sleeves of this pattern, but my fabric was of-the-devil, and I was totally unsuccessful at producing a decent topstitch. No matter what type of needle I tried, the darn thing just wanted to “grip” the fabric when pulling out. I eliminated the tucks on this version, but I like the dress so much I will likely make it again in a friendlier fabric choice and plan to try them again. The right front pleats were easy enough to make, but they are just not very visible in the busy print of my fabric. I think they would be a nice design element on a solid cotton/lycra fabric though.
Instructions. Fine, but this dress is so simple you really don’t need them anyway.
Do yourself a favor and order this pattern, and make up this dress. I need to go cut out a few more right now!
Happy sewing!
Maris
love it!! And boy Style Arc is getting lots of press it seems right now on their great patterns (which I totally agree with – their patterns are great!)
Thank you Lynn! Agree – Style Arc is really the best Indie pattern designer I have found. So far anyway!
i’m so glad this pattern worked out for you, it looks AMAZING on! you’re right: DVF nailed it, and so did you 🙂 you know, i’m 5’8″ and also have to petite upper bodices! all my height is in my legs too! can’t wait to try some style arc patterns, they look so good!
Thank you Lisa. You will NOT be disappointed in Style Arc patterns. They are so well-drafted. I do not love ALL of their designs, but most of them are very appealing to me. You def need to allow for shipping from Australia, and the cost is high, but for me the payoff is huge. I just do not have to fiddle with them to get a good fit, and so far I have not been disappointed in the outcome from a style perspective. Let me know which one you decide to make first!
This is so lovely. Great choice. I am jealous about the long leg part. thanks so much for sharing. Your stash must be amazing!
Thank you Janith – you are so sweet! Ummm, and my stash? Another word for it might be “obscene”. 😉
That’s a perfect dress! It looks so flattering on you. I’d like to try that pattern someday. Good luck over at TMS!
Thank you Barbara! I think EVERYONE should try Style Arc patterns. <3
Chic as ever Maris! It’s hard to tell from the line drawing but does it have a band finishing the neckline or did you decide to do that of your own accord? I’d like a wrap dress pattern……. I’m really happy with my style arc elle pants. My pattern cost per make is down to about $2/ pair now!
Your “Kate” dress looks fabulous on you! Don’t you just love it? I made it up 3 times in a week when I first got it, I liked it so much! I’ve tried more wrap patterns than I care to remember and this is definitely the winner!
Oh yeah, there are more of these dresses in my future for sure. My daughter wants me to make one for her too!
I just started making this pattern over the weekend. To test the fit I am simply making a top. Yours looks very nice. I am curious about your neckline finishing. Did you bind the neckline?
Thank you! Easy make and fit. And yes I did bind the neckline. Can’t wait to see your version!