Two Versions of Mama Leilani
I really enjoy pattern testing and my experience working with Marina of Peach Patterns was no exception. I had the opportunity to test their first womens pattern the Mama Leilani Dress and Top pattern (there is a coordinating girls version).Peach Patterns is based out of Sydney, Australia, which explains why I am rocking this newly released spring pattern this second week of November, lol. Thankfully, I live in the south so I didn't have to freeze to take these photos. We will flip flop from highs in the low 70s to the hi 50s for another week or two. I also think that this dress could be layered over a crew neck long sleeve tee or even a turtleneck with tights to extend the wear as the temperatures cool.I love a pattern with options and the Leilani doesn't disappoint! Choose from a single or double flounce, a top or a dress, knee length or hi lo dress hem and adjustable or tie straps. But don't let all the options intimidate you, the Leilani is a easy and quick sew. With just 3-4 pieces (depending on the strap option you choose), it's great for beginner or newbie sewists. I completed this dress in about 3 hrs from cutting to hemming.I had a little over a yard and a half of this denim tencel left over from my Denim Jumpsuit and it worked great for this dress. The fabric suggestion is for a lightweight fabric with drape; crepe, challis or handkerchief linen would be great options.I also sewed up a top with the shorter flounce out of some silky fabric from Joann which also turned out great. I can see myself using this pattern multiple times, next time I will attempt the adjustable straps. The Mama Leilani is on sale now along with a bundle option which includes the girls Leilani pattern. The professionally designed PDF digital sewing pattern includes an easy to follow tutorial with detailed diagrams and full sized color coded pattern pieces with the seam allowances included. Both imperial (in) and metric (cm) measurements are specified. There are body and finished measurements charts to help you choose the correct size and line drawings (design sketches) and a yardage chart to help you pick the perfect option and fabric. The pattern format is suitable for both A4 and American Letter print sizes and it has a measuring guide to make sure you have printed the pattern at the correct size.Pattern: Mama LeilaniPattern Description: pretty, on-trend top & dress with a single or double ruffle overlay at the necklineSizing: US 2 -16(AU/UK 6-20 or Eur 34-48)Difficulty: 1/beginner (the narrow hem may be a slight challenge)Fabric Used: Denim Tencel from Fabric Mart (dress) Blue Paisley Silky fabric from Joann (top)Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? YesWere the instructions easy to follow? VeryLikes: options! easy sew, flirty flounceDislikes: NonePattern alterations or any design changes made: noneWould I sew it again? Yes, I will make several more versions.Would I recommend it to others? Definitely, great beginners project.Conclusion: Great dress that is easy and quick to sew.