Maxi Length with dipped back hem, Westminster fabrics: Joel Dewberry's Notting Hill
Design details include 3 small pleats at the front neckline which helps to provide the fullness for the bustline. The back neckline features an optional keyhole detail. You can always opt to just cut the back bodice on the fold and not cut the keyhole for an entirely different look. The cap sleeves are cut on the bias with the lower edge of the armhole finished with a bias binding. The waistband fits a little under the bust but not as low as the regular waistline. The front of the waistband is not elasticized, creating a smooth silhouette to the front of the dress. The slightly A-line skirt is roomy without being too full and offers 4 different hemlines: tunic, knee, mid-calf, and maxi, so not only can this design be a dress but a darling top as well! I have also provided a separate back skirt piece that has a dipped lower hem. This hem is not as exaggerated as some of the hemlines in current fashion, as I wanted it to be subtle and noticed from the side and back, but not tremendously from the front.
Mid-calf length with dipped back hem, Fabric: Moda's Happy Go Lucky by Bonnie and Camille
As always, I have provided many ways for you to change the look of the dress just by changing the fabrics or adding a few details here and there. I love the way this design can take on the look of a skirt and blouse simply by making the bodice from one fabric, the skirt from another, and then set the whole thing off with a contrasting waistband and hem.
Knee Length, Fabric: Michael Miller's Cosmos by Laura Gunn
I also played around with layering fabrics for the skirt. I used some textured whites and eyelets that I had, but this would be lovely in rayon or cotton voile as well.
Knee and Mid-calf length layered with dipped back hem, Fabric: my personal stash of textured whites, trimmed with wide eyelet lace
This design is very forgiving with the roomy skirt and elastic waist. The bodice is roomy enough for cup sizes A-D without alterations, so it will suit a variety of body shapes and sizes! The pattern includes full instructions and details about my variations, as well as full size tissue sheets with a range of 7 sizes.
Knee length with back dipped hem, Fabric: Michael Miller
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Happy Sewing!
