This dress had so much potential–I was really drawn to its retro styling–but it didn’t live up to my dreams. Once again, I had fitting issues. And yes, I did make up a muslin beforehand.

So, it’s done, or would be if I weren’t so annoyed with this project and just slapped on some buttons and hemmed it. Unfortunately, I don’t think it’s worth the effort at this point.

Things I should have learned from my muslin, but didn’t (a.k.a. newbie mistakes):

The bodice may look fantastic while you’re standing in front of the mirror as still as a mannequin; however, it’s important to also try moving when wearing the muslin. Can you lift your arms? No? Then there’s a serious problem that needs fixing.

The sleeves bind–which is ok, if all you’re planning on doing is standing still and looking pretty

The shoulders feel constrictive–this is a significant issue with the drafting of the pattern. I have very narrow shoulders to begin with. Anyone with regular or larger proportions would do well to check this out carefully before sewing up the good fabric.

I’m short-waisted and the waistband sits at my natural waistline. Again, anyone closer to average or long-waisted really needs to double-check this dimension on their garment. This is an especially important issue if you plan on raising your arms.

Observations About the Instructions

Take all of this with a grain of salt, since I am a relatively new sewer…

The instructions seemed more vague and confusing than usual. Even with comparing the written word to the diagrams, I wasn’t always sure where I was supposed to baste things together or where I was supposed to put permanent stitches.

I never was clear on how the bias tape was supposed to be attached to the collar. I managed to get it on there for a fairly clean finish, but even with lots of trimming, the band where the collar met the bodice seemed too bulky to me.

Things I Learned About Poly Silky Types

They fray. Keep fray-check on hand at all times.

They morph into strange shapes when trying to cut or press them or otherwise badger them into submission. It’s much eaiser to handle these fabrics on a non-slick surface, i.e. cut out the fabric on a carpeted floor rather than a smooth tabletop.

What I Learned About Pellon Interfacing

It does NOT like steam. Use a dry iron. (I would have known this had I read the product’s instructions.)

What I Learned About Invisible Zippers

Good news! They’re fairly easy to install. That is, once you figure out how to do it so they’re not backwards. This tutorial was helpful to me.