Cute… but not for me.

A review of Megan Nielsen Sudley Dress and Blouse

Reviewed by joy.margot on 9th January, 2019

Edited to add: While I liked this dress when I first made it, the fit issues started to annoy me after a few wears. The neckline gaped badly at the front and back as well as being uncomfortably tight and the short bodice was awkward for wearing cardigans and jackets. I have since altered this TWICE to an elasticated waist skirt, and finally, a Nina Lee Carnaby dress. A lot of these issues could have been fixed with a toile and alterations, but as there’s a few dresses in a similar style, it’s not a pattern I’ve made since. I have seen some lovely versions on other people, but it’s not for me.

I chose this pattern as I knew the loose fit would be perfect over Christmas (HELLO cheese and mince pies) and I thought it would be a pretty quick sew. It took longer than expected as there’s a lot of hand finishing but I actually really enjoyed it!

I chose a medium weight chambray fabric from my stash and lined the bodice in Liberty tana lawn scraps. I didn’t bother lining the skirt due to the weight of my main fabric. My measurements put me between an XS and S, but I opted for an XS due to the loose shape over the waist and hips. As the dress on the front of the pattern looks really short, I added 2cm to the length and added in-seam pockets to the skirt, as always.

The main construction is incredibly simple as there’s no darts or fastenings. I hand stitched the lining around the sleeves and waist and love how neat and professional it looks on the inside. The sleeves looked a little baggy on me and it didn’t look right in my heavier fabric, so I drafted a skinny cuff to pull them in and I love how this looks!

I’m delighted with my finished dress and have worn it a few times already. Next time, I would make the bodice a little longer, or use the cropped blouse line on the pattern. I’d also like to try adding elastic to the waistline with a lighter weight fabric.

Full blog post available here.