Well, the first dress for DD1’s summer wardrobe is finished.  I fell in love with the simplicity of line in this pattern after seeing Jessica’s review of it over at Green Apples, and picked up the pattern when BMV had their $3.99 sale.  I thought it was a perfect style for Hannah.

Pattern: Vogue 8663

Fabric: She picked the rayon-lycra knit from our local Fabricland, and she wanted a belt.  A yellow belt, to be precise.  I wasn’t so sure about the colour choice, but it looks brilliant.  I like it better belted than without.  The belt just adds the definition the fabric pattern needs.

Notes: This was a super easy dress to cut and sew.  It truly is a two-hour dress.  I made some changes to the instructions, though.  First, I did not put in a CB zipper. No need with the knit fabric, as it has a lot of give and is lightweight.  I think if a heavier knit like an RPL was used then a zipper might be necessary, but not with this knit. 

Second, I lined the skirt with tricot for modesty – not that it’s transparent at all, but it is very thin fabric over buttocks.

Third, I did not use purchased bias stay tape to finish the neckline.  I simply stay-stitched the neckline, pressed under the seam allowance and turned it under again to make a neat 1/4” facing.  Then I topstitched it into place.  It works brilliantly, and there’s plenty of give in the knit to pull this over one’s head.

I must say I wasn’t sure about the print, but seeing the photos has really changed my mind.  I love the colours!  This will be a dress she’ll wear a lot this summer, I think.