Because the sun came out and I am so ready for Spring, even though it is just early March and still cold most days, I decided to make up a pattern I purchased years ago and never used. It’s a tank-style tunic/shift dress made for a bias-cut linen.
I wanted to make a mock-up, so I selected a light, flowered cotton remnant and did not cut on the bias. I changed the neckline and cut the sides wider to make it more flowy. So, modified a bit, nothing that should change the basic A-line fit.
Well, the darts were too pointy and did not even try to match up to my girls, and the armholes needed recutting so they did not cut off my circulation. The back neckline needed a pleat to take up the gaping. I did like the yoke I added in the back to add more swish to the dress. And the buttons. So cute.
I recut the armholes and repositioned the darts. Oh, and I had to add pockets because…what is a garment without pockets…never worn, that’s what.
I stitched up the pockets, shoulders, and sides using French seams. Tricky with pockets! I love YouTube. I added a front placket and made bias tape to finish all the openings. That worked out very well. I even bias-taped the hem to save as much length as possible. I forgot to add length, like I always do.
It’s cute, swishy, I love the pockets, but it’s really a wear-at-home dress as it is a bit see-through, and I don’t like slips. Oh, it also has to get quite a bit warmer for me to slip this on. And tiny flowers on off-white is just not my usual style.
I did go all out on finishing as I wanted to brush up on my skills and try a few new things, like French seams with side seam pockets. The buttons are so cute. Will I use this modified pattern again…probably not. I think it needs to go in the paper recycling bin.
Congratulations! Your inspirational Summer dress is a FEATURED PROJECT!!! 
