I'm not used to dresses in this style, not that I don't like it, just a bit different. It isn't fitted, but it isn't loose. It sort of drapes over and around you. Slinky in the bias-cut kind of way. Which is different than what I'm used to, but SO comfortable. I need a bit more variety in my wardrobe anyway :P Oh, and there is an tie on the inside if you want the gathering on the side. And it may not look like a big skirt, but trust me, there is a LOT of fabric in there! Very swingy :)
You know, I almost want to complain about this pattern. It was a Vogue, but the pattern pieces were the most bizarrely shaped things I've ever seen in my life. Curves and tucks and darts and seams. But you know what? It was actually pretty easy! I mean, the pattern is there for you. No guessing, no draping, no creating, no measuring. Cut and sew. I can't really complain. Other than a few minutes staring blankly back and forth at the directions, the pattern, and the piece of fabric occasionally, no big problems! So no complaining here :) Just a warning, if you pick up the pattern, super bizarre pieces.
Some close ups of the detail. It is pretty much what makes the dress, even if the fabric is so complicated you can't even tell. Well, I know it is there and that is what really counts ;)
I had a bit of the usual trouble with pre-made patterns and my once again reinforced theory that I apparently have an unnaturally small back, which I don't believe is even possible, but it wasn't too hard to fix because I sort of expected it. Took it in a bit at the side seams and at the shoulder seams to bring the dip of the back up to a more comfortable level. The hem is serged. I like to serge fancy-looking dresses because it dresses it down a bit. And also, I tried to hem it and, for those non-sewers (who probably skipped this paragraph), hemming a bias-cut, round hem, stretchy fabric is (for lack of a better descriptor) a total bitch. I'm happy with the finished product. Obviously....or I wouldn't have posted it and I would be seam ripping instead of on the computer...
~Nikki
