Sew Different Ripple Dress

This is an easy pattern to follow that goes together well. There are only 8 pattern pieces including neck facings and pockets. I have made 2 versions both in a fairly stiff cotton. I fell for the old style floral print of both and one would not look out of place in The Sound of Music. The skirt is beautifully full, and on a hot day it feels cool, without the danger of flipping up in a breeze and showing your knickers, not my style. The neckline sits beautifully, no cleavage on show, a neat tailored finish. The deep pockets, with the diagonal front opening are also a simple tailored detail too. You could lift or drop the waist, if you shorten or lengthen the bodice before cutting. I dived straight in and at 5'2" the waistline sits at my natural waist. I also took in the bodice, sewing ever so slightly towards the waist down each side seam. This is because there are no darts, I used crisp, heavier cotton and I didn't want it to hang off my ample **** in a straight line to the hem. There are plenty of gathers at the waistline. This is a full skirt. I love the way the fullness drops front and back, with the flatness of the pocket opening at the hip. The pockets are very deep, you could save some fabric here and still have useful pockets. I made a midi version, as the style just lends itself to a longer full skirt. The only negative are the sleeves which are wide due to the raglan style and, in a stiffer fabric, stick out. I made turn back cuffs on the first version and a mock button fold on the second. I might change this to elasticated gathers. I really like this dress, drop it over your head, add a cropped denim jacket, grab your guitar and head for the hills with Maria.