Floral Denim V-Back Dress: Closet Case Fiona
To say I was thrilled to be selected to test for this latest Closet Case pattern is an understatement. I know they have a huge following and I'm sure the application pool was filled with amazing sewists. I mean who doesn't love Closet Case? My first "real" me-made coat was the Clare Coat, which I just love. I also own the famous Ginger Jeans pattern, though I haven't built up the confidence to make my own jeans quite yet.
This post is all about the just released Fiona Dress Pattern!!! If you follow me you know just how excited I was to test because I actually sewed 15 buttonholes and you know I hate them. I actually finished this dress a few weeks ago and it has been just torture to keep it under wraps. I love it so much!
Y'all know I love a pattern with options and the Fiona Dress provides a two bodice backs (full and open back) and 3 skirt lengths (above the knee, knee and midi). It also features front patch pockets and you know how I feel about dresses with pockets, LOVE! The criss-cross straps of the deep V back called me and I planned to balance that with the knee length skirt. However once I tested the fit I felt it was too long for the sassy back and I shortened it to the above the knee length.
If you've sewn a Closet Case pattern then you already know that their garments are not the simplest to construct but their instructions are extremely clear and thorough. Each step is clearly explained and the illustrations walk you through. I graded between three sizes (14 bust, 16 waist, 18 hip*) based on my body measurements the fit was spot on. It's typical for me to grade sizes for woven fitted dresses and bodysuits since my body refuses to adhere to anyone's sizing. LOL*Heather at Closet Case took all of the feedback into consideration and added 1" to the hip measurement of the larger sizes, so I could probably get away with 16 waist and hips.
Denim, twill , linen, poplin or chambray are the suggested fabrics for the Fiona. I had just enough of this rose printed denim from Fabric Mart left over from my Simplicity 8264 make last year. (I've never worn that dress and think I might sell it. Is anyone interested in buying items from my closet?) It's a mid weight denim with no stretch and it worked well for this project.
The only variation I made in the construction of the dress was lining the bodice. Since I chose to sew the open back bodice it meant going braless and there's no way that I wanted skin-to-denim contact. I needed something with a little weight to it to match the weight of the denim, so I used the same satin I used to line my Clare Coat for the bodice lining. Initially I was only going to line the front but went ahead and did the back as well. To reduce the bulk in the button placket I cut the front bodice piece a little short of the fold line but the rest was constructed exactly the same. This definitely makes for a more comfortable wear.
Can someone please share your favorite button suppliers? Because Joann is extremely limited. Though the color is spot on for the pop I was looking for these plastic magenta buttons aren't worthy to be on my super cute dress.
Fiona is available now from Closet Case! The printed patterns are on presale and should ship in July according to their site. I'd take advantage of the presale because I'm sure this pattern will sell out! but the pdf pattern is ready to downloadPattern: Closet Case Fiona SundressPattern Description: a fitted button-up sundress with shoulder straps, princess seams, a straight cut skirt and fetching topstitched details. View A features a bra-friendly bodice and midi length skirt with side slits. View B features crossed straps and a low back, with a mini or below knee length skirt. All skirts and bodices are completely interchangeable so you can mix and match the Fiona of your dreams.Sizing: 0-20Difficulty: 3/ IntermediateFabric Used: Floral printed denim from Fabric Mart (sold out) Similiar here, here and hereDoes it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? YesWere the instructions easy to follow? Yes, they have excellent instructions!Likes: Fitted dress, open back, multiple views and patch pocketsDislikes: Buttonholes!!!! LOL but they were worth it.Pattern alterations or any design changes made: I added a bodice.Would I sew it again? Yes, I think I need the longer view in linen.Would I recommend it to others? DefinitelyConclusion: A statement sundress.