I've finally completed this project. I wore the dress today (without the jacket). Here's my review:
Pattern Description: Lined, semi-fitted jacket with darts in front and back, notched collar and lapels, back slit opening, two-piece sleeves with slit opening and button closing. Fitted, lined, sleeveless dress with pleated upper front, princess seams, slightly flared, back zipper closing and mid-knee length.
Pattern Sizing:AA(6-8-10-12), EE(14-16-18-20)
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow?Yes. The pattern is rated easy but I think a beginner might feel intimidated by all the work involved in making this garment. So an advanced beginner could probably do this because of the lining of the dress and jacket.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?I like the dress. For the jacket, I'm gonna have to go back and stitch the neck edge. The instructions did not include that step, just a lot of understitching. (This is why I didn't wear the jacket because the lining shown around the neck edge and I did not notice this during construction).
Fabric Used:Rayon linen.
Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:None
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?Perhaps. I like the both the jacket and dress and if I were to make it again, it would be in a different fabric. Something more for casual wear. The fabric I used is for something I'd wear to church (which I did) or out to a special dinner.
Conclusion: I enjoyed working on this project. It was a lot of work though but I like the finished pieces.
I'm not sure what my next project is going to be. I have a few more I'd like to finish up before summer is over. Although next weekend is Labor Day and kind of an official end to the summer season (not calendar wise or weather either though) I am sure we will still have a few hot & humid days ahead and I'll still want to enjoy my cool attire. LOL! Also, I'm still in the process of cleaning out my closets and the things that I make up in the next few days or weeks, will be for next summer, even if I only get to wear them once.
