Creating my own velvet Leona dress

A review of Tammy Handmade Leona Dress

Reviewed by RubyRosesSews on 3rd April, 2021

I wanted to make myself a fun party dress to wear, even though there were no parties to go to! The Leona Dress was the perfect choice. I saw this beautiful velvet at Fabric Godmother, and just fell in love with the geometric op art print! I didn’t buy it straight away, but once I saw this pattern – I knew the perfect fabric. Tammy’s version of the Leona dress is made from beautiful navy velvet. Which I think is what influenced me to make my own velvet version.

I cut a size 12 as I didn’t want it to be skin tight. At the last minute before cutting. This pattern calls for 2m of fabric, but I was making a smaller size I decided to just buy 1.5m.

The Leona dress was a nice simple one to sew. After turning out the straps the facings are laid on and sewn. The side seams are then sewn down to the slit opening.

I didn’t make adjustments to the pattern, but I added a couple of steps into the making that I think really helped with the finish. So just after the facings have been sewn to the front and back, I under stitched the seam allowance to the facing, this helps it sit nice and flatly. It also stops the facing riding up to the front while wearing it.

I also added another step to keep the facing down which was to “stitch in the ditch.” Sewing in the side seam to keep the facing in place, I did this on both sides. I think with these two added steps you’ll send up with a more professional finish.

I do really love this pattern and the way it turned out. I also I love the fact I can layer it and make it more casual,

More reviews over on my blog:

https://rubyrosesews.com/