This is a pretty simple dress but I want like ten of them. These are definitely my most-worn garments the past few months and I love them so much. There’s not too much to say about them though.
I started with Stretch and Sew 1500, which we used in my beginning clothing class. I think it’s out of print now but if you can get your hands on it, it’s a great pattern. (Here’s a copy that’s on Etsy.) I’ve kind of started using it as my unofficial knit sloper. I pretty much just lengthened the front to dress length, lengthened the back slightly more, and then slashed and spreaded the whole thing to add extra fullness. Then I curved the front and back hems to create a nice high low curve.
The maroon one is made with a really nice cotton interlock from Stretch and Sew Fabrics. (They’re no longer open as a store but they come to my school twice a year with a selection of knit fabrics at great prices.) The elephant one is a really interesting knit that has an almost brushed flannel feeling on the back. I snagged that one from Sewfisticated in Boston.
And that’s about it! Interestingly, the elephant one originally had long sleeves and I wore it literally once and then it sat in my closet gathering dust. Then I came across it again a few weeks ago, hacked off the sleeves, and now I wear it all the time. Especially to buffets.
Hmm maybe I should make a slightly dressier one for Thanksgiving.
I took stretch and sew classes back in the eighties. I remember loving their patterns, fabrics, and especially their elastics. Top quality. Then…they kinda disappeared, at least up here in Vancouver.
Every time I see one of their patterns in a thrift store, I might squeal a bit out loud as I snatch it up.
I haven’t seen this pattern…yet. Your versions are lovely.
Thanks! And how cool! We’ve had some donated to the free pile at school so I’ve snagged a few. I’ve tried two t-shirt patterns and a swimsuit and so far they’ve all been lovely. It’s sad that they’re not really around anymore.
Oh my gooosh, I LOVE these!!
Hi, by the way! I just found your blog and now have no other plans other than to read all of your posts tonight! :p
Aww that’s so sweet of you! Thank you and welcome! 🙂