Marguerite Dress by Sew Over It – a review

A lovely versatile dress pattern that’s perfect for the summer as well as for autumn/winter worn with tights. I’ve already made three versions – two out of rayon and one out of a cotton sateen – and I will definitely use this pattern again.

The dress features some pretty details, like the gathering above and below the waistband which helps with shaping, the keyhole at the back, and little cuffs sewn on the grown-on sleeves. Understanding the instructions for sewing the cuffs may be a little tricky, but if you read it carefully and pay attention to the pictures in the instructions, you’ll be fine. I omitted the pockets (unpopular decision, I know!), so I cannot comment on their construction. Otherwise the dress comes together easily and the instructions are easy to follow.

Fit-wise, similar to other sewists I have found the back to be very gapey. On my first version I simply took a chunk out of the centre-back seam, but on my other versions I amended it on the pattern. If you’re interested in how I did that, you can check out this post on my blog where I explain it and talk about my other Marguerites as well. Also, when you’re choosing your size, note that there are over 4 inches of ease at the bust. If you want it a little more fitted, like I did, go down a size for the bodice (this also helps with the gaping back). As I am quite short, I also shortened the skirt a bit. Talking about the skirt, I love that it is not simply a gathered rectangle, but that is is curved at the sides and that the gathering happens in the centre and not at the sides.

Overall a fab pattern!