I'm going to ask for forgiveness up front here... I love this dress. And... I had way too much fun shooting photos in it. So... there are a lot. Even for me. A good shirtdress is such a no-fuss garment to rock, that I cannot believe this is only the second one I have made (the first being the Alder Shirtdress by Grainline Studio). Seriously though, my closet has been whispering to me in my dreams about this dress and Jennifer Lauren Handmade made those dreams a reality with the release of her new pattern, The Sorrel Dress. Jennifer ran a Kickstarter campaign to fund the release of a real life, physical, press-to-hand paper pattern. She smashed her goal in less than 24 hours. Wow. I obviously wasn't the only one in need of the pockets and buttons (or snaps in this case) and sassy-yet-classy ease a dress like this affords. Not only is this particular one infinitely easy to wear, but it is such a great pattern for any skill level to sew (adventurous beginners looking to up your skill game, I'm looking at you). Not only are the instructions clear, but the illustrations provide extra guidance to those of us more visual learners. As far as construction goes, Jennifer has included pattern pieces for cup sizes A-D (which makes fitting the bodice so much easier), there are no set-in sleeves to contend with, and no collar stand to construct. One of the views even allows you to eliminate the button placket. If you've been wanting to try your hand at making a shirtdress but have felt a little intimidated by the process, there is no excuse not to try this one. The darts are the only part of the construction process that I found slowed things down a bit--it just takes a while to sew 16 darts. HOWEVER, the feminine shaping these darts provide is so worth that extra time. I love to sew, but I'm certainly no fashionista, that being said, I did want to share a few photos that help show some of the versatility of this garment. I sewed this version in a double cloth that I got from Indiesew earlier this year. I feel this fabric can be cool enough to wear in the early summer but also feels just cozy enough (think lightweight flannel) that it translates to fall as well. I definitely have plans for a linen version in the future. This dress is easily worn with or without a jacket, pairs just as easily with boots (excuse my faux pas of brown boots with this gray/black dress) as it does with flats, and accepts leggings without complaint. Hell, you can even take it for a walk in the woods or a ride on a bike if you feel so inclined--click through the slideshow below if you're interested in seeing me attempt to showcase all of that.
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February 2020
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