Last year I got this lovely unbleached linen with a very specific plan in mind. Almost as soon as I got it, I was hit with a feeling that I get often - this fabric is so lovely, I need to make the perfect project with it. So my plans changed a bunch of times until I finally bit the bullet and cut this dress out from the same pattern that I made my Rollerblade Dress out of last year. Since this fabric is very understated, I wanted to add in a few extra details. I ended up adding a ruffle around the neckline, handmade ceramic buttons, and lace around the hem.
However, while I was sewing it, I kept having doubts about whether I would actually wear and enjoy this dress. It didn't feel like it was quite my style, and I kept regretting that I hadn't chosen a different design instead. But now that I am finished, I am actually really pleased with it!
Ignoring the doubts about the design, this was actually a very simple dress to put together and once I truly started working on it, it only took me about a week!
I used pattern B6094 with the slim skirt option, and I ended up taking the waist up by about an inch. I probably could have taken it up a few centimeters more, but the current fit is very comfortable so I will likely leave it how it is. I also wanted to make sure that there was plenty of ease in the hip and waist areas, since linen can be delicate if it is under strain. Although linen is a strong fiber, when it is creased (such as at a seam or in pleats) it can completely fall apart after a while, so it is best to choose slightly looser fitting garments if you are using linen.
To add some texture to this dress, I did quite a bit of topstitching as well as lace at the hem. It is still a very simple dress, but I am glad that I put the effort in to add some interest, and I think it really is worth it when you look up close.
Overall, I am glad that I kept going with this project even though I wasn't sure about it while I was working on it, and I think it will be a really comfortable addition to my summer wardrobe! This was a good reminder that not everything I make will be my favourite right off the bat, but it doesn't mean that it isn't well done, or that it won't grow on me eventually.
Now I am on to more exciting projects, with fabric that I feel a little less pressure with:)
~Katherine
Comments