Chalk and Notch Fringe Dress for #sewmystyle2018

Chalk and Notch Fringe Dress Pattern review for #sewmystyle2018

I'm leading this month's sewmystyle2018 pattern, the Fringe Dress and Blouse from Chalk and Notch. I jumped forward back at the start of the year for this pattern because I completely fell in love with the relaxed yet feminine lines and wanted to make all the versions!!!!! You can choose frm a blouse or dress, with two different bodice and sleeve options. I made this rayon version at the start of the summer and have loved wearing it throughout the season as it's so comfortable......and has pockets ๐Ÿ˜‰


Fabric

I originally had some Liberty lawn set aside for this project, but soon came to realise that it was too crisp for this dress. After a lot of online fabric searching I realised that I already had something just right in my stash. I bought 2m of this dogtooth roses rayon from Backstitch years ago in their sale and had intended it for a 1940s Tea Dress, but it works so much better for this pattern. It is super soft and gathers discreetly so there isn't too much bulk at the waist. The only drawback is that this fabric is ever so slightly see through at the skirt, but it's not that noticeable.

Pattern and Instructions

What I love about this pattern is that there are so many options that you can mix and match to create lots of different versions from one purchase (this is definitely a value for money pattern!)
This is a loose fitting dress or blouse with some waist gathers and a dipped hem. You can choose from front or back ties to help give definition, a button up or notched front bodice, sleeve cuffs or short sleeves with a tab and pockets!
I chose the button up front, sleeve cuffs and front waist ties. The pattern pieces are very clearly labelled so don't worry about keeping track of everything.

Chalk and Notch Fringe Dress Pattern review for #sewmystyle2018

The pattern pdf that I downloaded is very thorough. It includes detailed information throughout, including guidance on how to make custom fitting adjustments. Each step is very clearly explained with additional tips and diagrams. I felt that the level of detail and clarity would make it easier for someone new to these techniques to be successful. As usual, the most fiddly part for me was hemming with all those curves.

Alterations

I made a size 6, as per my measurements. As a loose fitting pattern there is some flexibility in fit, which helps. I ended up sewing the button placket closed as I couldn't decide on buttons in the end, and can get the dress on and off easily. The waist ties make a big difference and I like hhow there is a front tie option.
I initially used the pattern pieces for the sleeves and tabs, but took these off and replaced with the cuffs as it didn't balance properly on my frame. I was tempted to shorted the front for a high low hem effect, but kept it as per the original - I didn't even take off any length!


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Welcome to Sewing and Other Stories; my journeys with sewing and knitting; pattern reviews, tips and guides for beginners. I'm also the designer behind West Beach Knits knitting patterns and I host a Knitting and Sewing channel on YouTube where you can see all of this in person. Come have a look!

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