Quick make + pockets = YAY

Edited to add: I still love this pattern, although I now know I need a narrow shoulder adjustment. You can see my latest version and read my blog post here.

Nina describes the Carnaby as “a simple shift dress with just enough features to keep things interesting” and I can’t think of a more perfect way to describe it! The construction is simple and the large front and back bodice panels mean that this would be a great pattern for showcasing bold patterns with little interruption from darts or seams. Another major plus: this pattern actually works really well in quilting cotton and I made both versions in Cotton and Steel medium weight cotton. The exposed zip at the back is a little fiddly (if you’ve never done one before!) although Nina’s instructions and illustrations are really helpful and clear. I actually managed to leave it out of my second one as I found I could get the dress on and off without undoing the zip.

I’ve now made two versions: with and without sleeves, although I wear the sleeveless one a lot more as I love a bit of layering! I made them both about a year ago, and now recognise that I would ideally have done a taken a chunk out of the front and back neckline as these are a little gapey on me, but this is something I find with most patterns rather than a fault with the pattern.

I wrote a blog post about my Carnabys for Sew Me Sunshine here.