Grainline Studio Alder Shirtdress

I have been planning an awesome stripey shirtdress for so long and got really excited when I found the perfect striped shirting (fabrics galore for any UK sewers looking for some lovely striped shirting). I love the Alder pattern view A, a great shift pattern and chance to play with design features. I created chevron pockets and yoke, also made a belt with the same fabric and attached some belt loops. This allows me to give the dress more shape if I want it, or the belt can hang from the loops if I don't want to use it. Such a great pattern.

I enjoyed making this up. The instructions are very clear and the grainline web site is a great resource with further information on how to make Grainline patterns up.
I made this much longer than is given in the pattern. I traced all the pattern parts out on to dot and cross paper and increased the length of the necessary pieces. I am a 37 inch bust C/D cup I made their size10, 37 inch bust . It was a snug fit and if I made it again would cut between the 10/12 size. The arm holes are also a snug fit after wearing it all day, there can be a slight red mark on the front of my arm due to a very slight pulling there. Next time I will remove a 1/8 inch at the front armhole. I have very square shoulders and the pattern fitted me with little of the normal alterations I normally have to do.

I made three Alder shirt dresses in view B. It is a great pattern and it was easy to follow instructions to make it. The most time consuming part is collar construction and button placket with all the buttonholes and buttons. I made each one in three nights after work.
If you already have experience with that type of garment it is straightforward to make plus Grainline has great sewalong on their blog which makes it even more easier.
Skirt is gathered and attached to the bodice. The triangle part of the skirt between upper and side seam needs to be cut into to make a nice finish which is a bit tricky but doable. You just need to be careful not to cut too much and then secure it with stitching.
Armholes are finished with bias binding and it makes a nice and clean finish.

You can read more about i ton my blog: https://thesewingnomade.com/2018/08/22/alder-shirt-dress-trio/

This is such a great pattern. My new favorite summer dress!

http://amynicolestudio.com/alternating-stripes-alder-shirtdress/

This is a great pattern. I really love how the dress turned out and think I will get a lot of wear out of it.