Christmas Kielo

Great pattern from Named that turned out beautiful!  I’ve seen so many people make this dress over the years since it’s been released and all of them have turned out fantastic.  I finally got around to making it and it totally came through for me with the amazing fit and style.  This was planned as my Christmas dress for my upcoming trip to Puerto Rico.  I made my Kielo from bamboo jersey knit from Mood Fabrics in a festive cherry red.  This is a medium weight, drapey knit that suits the pattern quite well.  I cut a size 38 because my measurements are B/W/H: 34/28/37.  I shortened the pattern by between 7-9 inches (I honestly can’t quite remember) but after tracing it off and pinning it on, I noticed the maxi length was going to be way too long on my 5 ft 4 in frame.

Because there are no shorten/lengthen lines on the pattern, I had to search around and find a blog post and pattern review photo of how to shorten the pattern while maintaining the nice angle from the “wings” that narrow to the ankle.  I’ve included the photo here for reference so I don’t have to search around again next time I make this. Hah!

Some have mentioned raising the armhole because the scoop is too low and show the top of their bra.  This is the case with me as well and I would make this modification next time.  My bra only shows about a 1/4 inch so I would raise the arm just a tad to cover this next time but right now its not a huge deal.

The pattern calls for knits but a lot of people make it in woven.  I think this is a great idea because it would be easier to sew up in a woven than a knit.  This knit was particularly stretchy but the drape really works with the pattern.  Because of the stretch, I used fusible knit tape on the neckline, armholes, and hem.  This kept the binding from stretching out and the hem was nice and flat.  I would recommend this step if you choose to finish the neck and armholes by folding them over, especially if your knit doesn’t press well.  I might try it with the self-made knit bias tape next time but I think I’d rather make this in a lovely drapes silky viscose noil.