Romper? Playsuit? Jumpsuit?

A review of True Bias Shelby Dress and Romper

Reviewed by Eversewoften on 17th July, 2020

I lengthened the pattern pieces by two inches at the lengthen line to make it more age appropriate and to take account of my height (5ft 7). In hindsight this would have been better splitting to one inch in the torso and another on the leg. My choice of jungly viscose meant that French seams were essential throughout to prevent fraying. Starting with the centre back panels and the ties, the pieces came together to create a lovely flowy garment. There are a lot of seams though! The ties don’t serve any purpose other than to break up the otherwise plain back.

The neck facing went on like a dream, the cap sleeves were straightforward, as was the crotch seam. I have to admit that I really struggled to level the hem. I had taken care cutting the pieces so was surprised that the hem area was quite uneven. My other modification was to use more buttons than suggested.

So what did I learn from this toile? By lengthening in the torso, the crotch was too low. However I would have struggled to raise my arms above my head without getting a wedgie if I hadn’t lengthened. The cap sleeves pull a little when typing, so I would make them fuller. I will bear all this in mind as I start the interlined version for my 5ft 10 daughter.

I’m lucky enough to now have a lightweight loose short “dress“ perfect for a heatwave! And the name of the garment- I choose jumpsuit!