Great beginner project, and lovely dress

This was my first -ever- dress pattern make. I’m a confident beginner having sewed a lot of craft projects before now and being confident with my sewing machine. I chose the mid-length sleeveless option and used a black patterned canvas fabric. I made a size 26 as the finished measurements for a 24 seemed like it would be tight on me (though it is usually my size).

Cutting out and sewing was pretty straightforward – just two main pieces (front and back) with one optional dart on each side of the bust (which I used as I am an E cup) and then two inner facing pieces, along with interfacing.

I struggled a lot when completing the top shoulder seams and eventually DIYed it with some top-stitching. I also added pockets to the front with red top-stitching.

In the end this “1-hour dress” took one rainy day to complete, but it looks and fits fantastically and for a first ever effort I’m proud. I’ll be using the pattern again for sure, probably with a lighter fabric for summertime. Next time I’ll open up the neckline a little and probably enlarge the armholes slightly too.

I gave 4 stars because I got completely lost at the shoulder seams and the instructions weren’t clear. However, bear in mind that for more advanced sewists I’m sure this makes a lot more sense!