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!
Green apples - Stitchywitch Creates 
It’s a very pretty dress. The back zipper jig isn’t even noticeable…you did a great job on this dress!
Oh, I love this dress! That fabric is so fantastic, especially with the black waistband. I hate when things don’t quite line up, but I can’t even tell, all I see is how cute it looks on you! A perfect summer dress. 🙂
The longer I look at that black waistband on this dress, the more I like it. Lovely dress! And I am sure nobody will even notice the little less-matching-up in the back. They will be too busy looking at how pretty you look.
I really like the high waist. It creates a very flattering shape and looks lovely on you. I have only just got brave in grading patterns as my body shape is a mixture of sizes too, but it pays off and you end up with a perfectly fitted dress. The fabric is great too.
I like where the waistband sits, it looks good. Maybe you’re not sure as it’s not where you normally wear a tie? After a few wears you’ll probably wonder what you were worried about! Love the fabric!
Oh it’s so pretty! 🙂
totally cute! i adore it!
That dress is so cute! But you’re right, it does look much more empire than I would have expected. I think it looks good on you, but I’m not a fan of empire on me, so I’m glad I saw yours before I tried making this pattern for myself.
I think the waist is nice on you. I really like that print, too.
Absolutely lovely!
I think it looks fabulous! Do a lot of Vogue patterns run large or are you just tiny?
A lovely summer dress!
Very pretty dress and I love the fabric (I’m a sucker for cityscapes). Have just ordered two yards of it for myself, and hope to be making a skirt out of it soon!
I appreciate this review – I think it’s flattering on you (and your hair looks gorg) but now that you have me thinking about it, I’m not sure I’d like where that waist sits either.
That dress is really pretty!! It reminds me of something from anthropologie.
I just found your blog this morning. I love seeing all the things that you’ve made. I’ll be coming back, for sure.
I love this print, and I really do like where the waist sits on you, and I like the black voile tie. In pictures it’s very nice…in person maybe another story?
You’ve inspired me to get back to my machine and sew for myself, it’s nice meeting you!
The black band and tie makes it! I like.
I am loving this print! and the dress. It looks great.