Megan Nielsen Matilda in Raspberry linen

I’ve been wanting to make the Matilda since I first saw it years ago, as it stood out amongst other shirt dresses with its utilitarian but still very feminine lines and lots of details. But I was intially put off by the narrow size range (XS-XL), even if I did fit into it. Since then Megan Nielsen have expanded their size range and now offer two size bands, covering sizes 0-34. They are also re-releasing their older patterns as well, so when the Matilda came out, I snapped it up.

I made it in a beautiful raspberry-coloured linen, which lets all the pretty details of the dress shine – the breast pockets, angled skirt pockets, yokes, all the top-stitching… It was an absolute joy to sew and the instructions are excellent. The number of patterns pieces to cut is a bit daunting and it took me forever, but do not be put off by that, it’s all worth it! If you need a bit more help with the sewing or fitting, Megan Nielsen have a whole series dedicated to the Matilda on their blog.

I did make a toile of the bodice first, as I wanted it to fit well and did a couple of adjustments usual for me, such as narrowing the shoulders, doing a sway-back, and adding a bit of room to the bust. As the bodice is princess-seamed and I only needed to add a little bit, I cheated a bit and just adjusted the curves of the seams, but I think the result looks good! Based on my measurements, I made size 12 at the top, grading to a 14 at the waist and hips and I find it fits true to size.

If you want to see more pictures and read a more detailed review of the pattern, you can find it on my blog.