I bought this pattern (Simplicity 2282 ) a long time ago and finally found the time and right fabric to sew it up. I wanted something that had some structure, so this cotton was a good choice, it holds the pleats in the sleeves and the shape of the peplum really nicely. It also was a great price, $5 a yard at the outdoor sale at Fabric Depot. And I am laughing now at how much it looks like the fabric on the pattern envelope.
I changed the shape of the neckline, making it a bit deeper and added a bias trim (this vintage green and white stripe) which I really like. I love sewing vintage styles, but usually feel compelled to mix it up in some way and the bias trim gave it just the right amount of weird to make it feel like me.
So, as much as I like this dress and for as much as I have worn it already (a lot!) I think this pattern is hard. Really hard. So hard I would be very reluctant to recommend it unless you have a lot of patience and have the time to make a muslin first. It was the detail of the peplum meeting the bodice with an inside corner that made it very tricky. It worked out fine but I am very happy I used a print with this pattern because any miniscule errors would be really obvious in a solid color.
Having said that, I loved sewing this. I love the challenge of new patterns and details and I just get a thrill out of cutting out new shapes. I do think if I want another dress with a peplum, I'd just trace this peplum piece and add it in the seam line between the bodice and the skirt of another dress pattern. Much easier.
Next up on my sewing boards are unnecessary things like a poncho or cape, another costume, and replicating a Gunne Sax dress for my eldest child and perhaps wide leg trousers for myself. I just bought a vintage Gunne Sax sewing pattern for Sadie, after looking for second-hand dresses with no luck. I scored big time with the other two girls. We are looking for an all white one, girls size 10. If anyone has one they need to unload, let me know.
Related to sewing: Did you see this free shrug pattern over at Burda Style? Excellent. And this dress is so wonderful. And peplum related, this dress has the most elegant peplum style. You have to zoom in to see it—it's a stunner.
