Pattern: Vogue 8469

Fabric: Cotton Sateen print from Sawyer Brook fabrics (available here)

Notions: Zipper, 1 yard of black voile for the sash

Here is my pattern review:

Pattern Sizing: I made a size 8 in the shoulders, blending to a 10 in the waist and hips. This ended up a little big, so I took the whole thing in by one size at the side seams.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? I think so!

Were the instructions easy to follow?They were fine, though I did follow my usual order of operations. I also used the seamless method of sewing a sleeveless dress bodice (tutorial here.)

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I thought it looked like a nice basic sundress, and I thought the ties were pretty. As it turns out, the only thing I don’t care for is the waistband. It sits very high – this is definitely an empire fit! It’s also a bit higher in front than in back for some reason. This is obvious when I turn to the side.  And keep in mind, I love an empire waist, so this one must be odd for me to object to it.  I also don’t like the asymmetrical tie (one side is longer than the other.) If I did it again, I would make the ends the same length, and tie it in the back.

I had trouble lining up the back waistband – it’s close, but not perfect.  I used an invisible zip, and three times was my limit for resewing it!  If the ties could tie in the back, it would cover than whole issue – alas, I did not think of that until too late!

Fabric Used:Cotton sateen from sawyer brook, with black voile for the tie. Upon reflection, the voile was a poor choice – I don’t like that it is matte while the sateen is shiny.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:Just the ones mentioned above. I chose to make the sleeveless version, because I was afraid this print would be too precious with the puffed sleeves.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?I won’t make it again – the shape isn’t the absolute best on me, though I do like my dress. Having said that, I do recommend it – just be aware that the waist sits high, and notice think about how you want to handle those waist ties!

Conclusion: I just love this fabric, and I’m sure I will get a lot of wear out of my dress!