The pattern has a several variations, like many of the Project Runaway patterns that Simplicity is putting out. In theory, this design is easy to sew. The sleeves aren't set in, and the variations allow for both a gathered neckline/sleeves or without. I went with the option including gathers.
Here's what I changed and noted:
- The pleating on the sleeve top shoulder is a really nice detail. I copied it for the front instead of the gathers, because really—the gathering look terrible. It barely needed to be gathered, and with a solid fabric, it just looked like it was sewn wrong. It impossible to evenly distribute the gathers across the front.
- There are rows of top-stitching on the neck and arm bands which is nice looking close-up. I think attempting this in a contrasting thread (as it suggested) would be a very swear-y experience.
- The back has a slight gather as well, and again, it would be nicer with pleats instead. I used an invisible zipper, although I am going to try an exposed metal zipper really soon on something.
- This dress is not what I would call a beginner sewing project. At least not in a solid colored linen. I sure like it however, so that's good. It was fun to make but I found myself thinking that I would never let my beginning sewing buddies try this pattern without a serious talk. There are too many places where any mistake would be painfully obvious.
- The pockets are awesome. They look great and are so useful—I love them.
- Melissa has a great bit about sewing from commercial patterns. It's so full of goodness, please check it out.
