This past Sunday, I made the Simplicity 8379 dress. It was the first pattern to be part of my #quicksewsundays makes. I picked up the pattern during one of my latest pattern hauls (Not that I needed another pattern. I just can help myself.) I was drawn to the pattern for multiple reasons. First, it fell into the easy sew category. I find that sometimes I just need something quick to sew in between makes, while sewing something that is more involved to complete (currently my daughter's prom dress) or after an epic sewing fail. How about you? Second, comfort is the name of the game. The pattern called for stretch knits. Knits can be more forgiving and very comfortable to wear. And lastly, it looked like it could be a great addition to my wardrobe for the warmer weather. I have really committed myself to increasing the number of me made items to my wardrobe. And the silhouette looked like it would complement my figure. I have to admit that I did hesitate to buy pattern because of the length. I usually do not wear dresses, skirts or shorts that are this much above the knees (maybe around the house). As I have gotten older, my body changes are something that this year I am really having to become comfortable with. It is almost as if my body has changes have snuck up on me. But really it should be now surprise. As I age (no I am not of that advanced an age), I realize there are things that I previously was able to do and get a particular result and how important my past routines were in contributing to the results that I wanted. I decided not to run but rather step outside my comfort zone. I made the purchase. And I am glad that I did. I did wear the dress with tights (way too cold to go without). I will see how I feel on a warmer day. The dress got the thumbs up from my teenage daughter. She even offered to take the dress off of my hands if I would not feel comfortable wearing it. Well, no dress for my generous daughter. I wore the dress on #memademay2017 day three. I will just have to make her one or maybe a few. I wore with a black cardigan. Pattern Review
Fabric Choice: Lightweight jersey Fabric Source: Girl Charlee (From my fabric stash) Pattern Instructions: Instructions were very clear, well written and the illustrations help to support written instructions. There are only 10 steps in the process to make the dress. Yes, quick. Garment Construction: The pattern only has three pattern pieces. The neckband and arm bands were easy to sew together. The size of the pattern piece was perfect. The hem construction is completed before side seams which is nice for all of those sewist that list hemming as one of their not so favorite task because it is the last step in the way of wearing your new garment. Did it look like pattern: Yes! The drape on the sides look great. Sizing/Fit: I cut a size small (10-12). I used the size that aligned best with my bust measurements as I knew that the fit through the waist and hip would be loose. I wanted to make sure that the fit through the bust was good. It fit great in the arms. The neckband was nice and flat. The measurement for the neck and arm band were perfect. I did not have to fiddle with sizing of neckband that I have had to do with other patterns. Huge thumbs up for that! Adjustments: None needed. I would like to make a little longer. There is not a lengthening or shortening line on the pattern. I plan to play around a bit with the next make to lengthen a bit. Would you make again: Yes! Yes! Yes! I plan to make more for me and my daughter. How Beginner Friendly is the Pattern: Very beginner friendly. Reasons: 1. Neck band and arm band was easy to sew with no need to adjust size. 2. Great pattern to learn/practice how to attach neck and arm band. I have sewn multiple neck bands on knits and I have to say that this was the fastest and easiest to sew! 3. Great confidence booster. The end result looks like it would have require some fancy skills to give the beautiful draped look but no. All in the cut of the pattern, magic! As you can tell I am quite pleased with this pattern and the results. Simplicity has outdone themselves with this one. I have gone on and on about the neck and arm bands with this pattern. What has been your experience with sewing neck and arm bands? Has it been smooth sailing or a guessing game? Have you seen any difference between Indie patterns and the Big Four pattern companies? I would love to hear your thoughts? Until Next Time, SewStitchinJobena
2 Comments
Sheyna
3/30/2018 04:48:32 pm
Hello,
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Jobena
11/21/2018 07:27:14 pm
Hi Sheyna,
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Hello, I am Jobena, a hummingbird by nature. Learning and creating through sewing, photography and travel.
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