Make a Garment a Month Challenge | My Completed Garment + Pattern Review

I actually managed to complete 2 other garments this month but this one is my official garment for the Make a Garment a Month Challenge.

I worked on this a little bit here and there (and then made a couple other garments in between) but this is definitely a pattern that can easily be completed in a few hours. This pattern is out-of-print. If you have it in your stash, this is a quick gratification project.

 

UPDATED TO INCLUDE A PIC FROM WHEN I ACTUALLY WORE THE DRESS OUT. THE PREVIOUS PICS WERE JUST TAKEN AT HOME. HUBBY TOOK ME TO SEE THE CLEVELAND ORCHESTRA FOR MY BIRTHDAY.

Side Gathering

Back View

Here is my pattern review for fellow sewers.

Vogue 8305

Pattern Description: 
MISSES’ JACKET, TOP, DRESS AND PANTS: Loose-fitting, unlined jacket has shaped front hems and long sleeves which may be worn open, or lower edges of front can be tied at waist or draped over shoulder. Purchased pin or belt. Fitted top or below mid-knee dress has raised back neckline, back zipper and long sleeves. Tapered pants have self-lined yoke, back zipper and side slits at ankles.

Pattern Sizing:
I cut size 14 but had to take it in quite a bit

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes the instructions were very straight-forward

Fabric Used:
I used a ponte knit from Joann. It is quite thin and you can see where the left/right front pieces overlap. I will definitely need to wear my Spanx slip underneath.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I didn't make any alterations other than fitting. I made all of the above-waist alterations on the right side so I wouldn't lose my gathering. It is still a bit lose in the bust area but I don't think there's anything I can do about that at this point. If I was to make this dress again i would definitely go down a size.

I did interface the zipper opening. The fabric was stretching quite a bit so I unpicked it and added the interfacing. that seemed to eliminate the problem. I haven't had much experience sewing knits so it could very well have been due to inexperience.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I don't know that I would make this one again as it's such a distinctive pattern.

Conclusion: 
This was a UFO that I cut out last year and never got around to sewing. Glad i took the time to finish it. It will be a great addition to my Fall wardrobe.