Last year I went through a phase of really wanting a shirt that fits my curves. I’ve had the Lennox pattern for a while but hadn’t the confidence to tackle both the button plackets and collar. I’m more of a ‘the faster the better’ sewer and by no means a perfectionist. So, with some trepidation, I entered into the Lennox dress.
Boy howdy am I pleased I did it. The inspiration for this dress actually came from a work mate who had the most amazing shirt with dinosaur fabric. I was determined to make one for myself. I found the fabric at spotlight and decided to go all out into a dress!
I will preface this before the photos to say that I actually slimmed this down a bit at the sides because of fabric challenges so it’s not as full as the image online and doesn’t have the pockets.
Oh look here i am with longer blonde hair – you’ll see a lot of changes.
So this was a ‘wearable muslin’ but overall I was super happy with the fit! I didn’t have to do a full bust adjustment because Jenny actually tailors her patterns with different full cup sizes.
Sizing – 14 E/F (I could probably go down to a 12 and do the G/H to get more of a full bust in the torso but i’m happy with this). Graded out to a 16 through the hips
Modifications – this dress doesn’t need much – I did my typical Sway Back Adjustment which is basically taking a wedge out of the back – slightly more complicated with panels like this has, but not difficult at all.
Fabric – recommended fabric is lightweight woven. I would not venture into even trying a knit with this design – I just don’t think it would work well. I think this would look stunning in rayon for the drape. I will try that next time. This fabric is poplin.
Final thoughts – I love this dress. I was scared for no reason whatsoever about the collar – though I am very visual so I did need to watch a youtube video of how to do it because I seem to be totally incapable of reading instructions! It worked alright so my next one will definitely be better. Overall the fit was great, went together really well and fast. This dress probably took me 3 hours after cutting it out.
I wore this to work happily (flaws and all) to show off to my workmates – they were suitable impressed.
xo
Great review look forward to following your blog. I join you in struggling with written instructions. Thank goodness for video tutorials
I know right!! Thanks for your support. This week I’m giving it a go at writing my own instructions for a skirt!