Husband and I had an appointment to take pictures for our Christmas cards this past Saturday and I really wanted to sew a new dress. Between hectic life and being a bit under the weather I didn't start until Wednesday so I needed something that would sew up quickly but still deliver a lot of bang.
I thought
Vogue 8615 fit the bill. I've had this pattern in my stash for a while. The fabric I purchased from Joann a couple of months ago.
Pattern review:
Pattern Description: Lined, below mid-knee or below mid-calf dresses A, B have fitted bodice, back neckline is lower than front and three-quarter or full length sleeves, flared skirt has side seam pockets and back zipper. Purchased petticoat and belt. Separate pattern pieces provided for A, B, C, D cup sizes.
Pattern Sizing:
I cut Size 12 with C cup bodice.
The guidelines in the patterns for choosing the correct cup size do not work for me. My bra size is 32D/DD. Based on my measurements, the instructions would have me to cut a B cup. Just for the sake of following instructions, I used the B cup for my muslin. It was much too tight across the bust. I didn't have time for a 2nd muslin so I went up to a C cup for my fashion fabric. The fit was okay but I think I would have probably done better to go ahead and cut the D cup. Next time...Also next time I will use the size 14 sleeves for my chubby arms LOL.
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?
I didn't follow ALL of the instructions. I read to see how they handled the lining and that was it. I have my own way. Plus I skipped around a bit to accommodate my sewing schedule.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I LOVE the simple design of this dress and that the skirt is so full.
I was REALLY surprised that the pattern did not call for any interfacing or include facings. This time around I simply didn't have time. Next time, I will take the time to draft facings and interface the neckline and back. I didn't experience any drooping thankfully but I think overall it would give a more polished finish.
Fabric Used:
The fabric is a poly jacquard purchased from Joann about 3 months ago. It is no longer available. A client had picked it out for a dress and I liked it so much I bought a bit for myself too. I'm glad I did because it sold out very quickly and has not been restocked.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I didn't line the skirt because I didn't have time.
My soul dies a little bit at the thought of having a seam down my center front. I cut the bodice front on the fold. The fabric wasn't wide enough to cut the skirt on the fold.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I definitely plan to sew this dress again and would absolutely recommend it to others.
Conclusion:
I needed a quick dress to wear for Christmas card pics. I cut this dress out and sewed it up in 2 evenings after work. It's a basic silhouette and perfect for letting a beautiful fabric be the star. It is not bra friendly. I had to wear a strapless. I also wore a tulle skirt underneath.
