Classic wardrobe staple!

This is a great pattern for beginner sewists – it was one of the first dressmaking patterns I attempted and I still wear my first version all the time! I have made the top version too and this is my second Camber dress.

I have used some very special fabric for this garment – it is very lightweight block printed cotton, which I bought in Jaipur when we visited India a couple of years ago. I used some fabric paint to add the little gold flowers to the design with a wooden stamp, which was also a souvenir from our trip.

The pattern instructions aren’t particularly detailed, but they are clear enough when read alongside the useful accompanying diagrams. I really like the way the neckline is bound and then attached to the back yoke – it’s a very clever and tidy finish.

I have found the ease in Merchant and Mills sizing to be quite generous in other patterns, but the Camber is a nice fit in my usual size. I made a size 10 and reduced the length of the dress by 2.5″ – I am 33″/27″/38″ and 5’4″ for reference.

I’m so pleased with how this dress turned out! I wanted something quite plain to let the fabric do the talking and make sure it was an ‘every day’ garment, rather than something fancy that would get less wear. I think it’s worked perfectly and I’ve already worn it a number of times – it’s a great outfit for hot days! This is a really useful pattern to have in your stash and I’m sure it’s one I will continue to revisit.