Saltspring by Sewaholic

Happy Easter to me. For months and months, I have be dying to make this dress but have not been able to pick the right fabric. Abbey at Sew Charleston and Priscilla at Fashion and Fishing have been telling me how much they like it and how well it fits.

We finally got an order in from one of my favorite jobbers (people that buy the end bolts of fashion lines), London Textiles, and knew I had to use this new rayon challis. 

First, rayon challis is very hard to work with! It is slinky like no other and almost impossible to cut straight. Second, this was a striped print, and lining up seams is always a must. I haven't challenged myself since I made the Anouk tunic by Victory Patterns, so I was ready for a challenge.

I decided I did not want tie straps; with a 1 & 2 year old, I could see that becoming more of a show than a fashion statement. Instead, I cut straps 10.5" long. I did this by measuring another dress I had in my closet.

I also did not use a zipper. After talking to Priscilla and Abbey, they said they didn't use their zipper, and it was easy to get on and off with the elastic and small straps. I'm not a big fan of regular zippers in clothing. Bags: yes. Clothes: no. The pattern calls for it instead of an invisible zipper, and I love invisible zippers; so, opting out was the best option for me.

It did take me a long time to cut out the striped fabric to make sure everything matched up. Because of the slight A frame, I decided to use the back skirt piece for the front as well so I could have the stripes meet in a chevron illusion down the front and back. I hate when stripes look like a frowning face.

After talking to Abbey, I decided to raise the bodice by 1 inch so that the elastic fell above my belly. I am growing a new baby in there, and I wanted to be able to wear this dress now. Due to how short I am, I think this actually looks better on me regardless of baby bump.

All levels can make this dress, and it is very flattering on. I have seen it made in knits, rayons, and voiles, and I love it.