The Jessica Dress from Mimi G. Style is one of those dresses where the fabric gets to shine. By simply selecting different fabrications can change the entire mood of this dress pattern. I wanted something that would work either for casual or dressy, depending on the accessories.
This pattern is considered to be true-to-size, so based on my measurements, I cut a size M (size 10) in the bodice and lengthened it by an inch along with a small FBA. The pattern suggest using your bust's measurement from the fullest point. But that would create all kinds of gaping around the sweetheart neckline if you have a larger bust like I do. I'm a D cup, so I cut the bodice based on my high bust measurement and made a FBA. This dress will stay up without the straps. And I graded out at the waist to a size L (12-14). I also lengthened the skirt by 3 inches.
My fabric is a blue eyelet or broderie anglaise (if you want to be fancy), that I found at Jo-Ann's. I was clearly popular because I bought the last on the bolt and it was barely enough. I also used navy blue ribbon from my stash as shoulder straps.
Here is a close-up of my buttons. I love how interesting and iridescent they are.
Speaking of buttons, you'll need an expanding button gauge because this pattern doesn't have a button/buttonhole template.
For all of the gathering, I used my gathering foot.
If I can get around it, I'll never pull gathers again.
With the additional 3 inches of length added to the skirt, I was able to cut around the eyelet pattern.
And I fully lined the dress with a lightweight navy blue broadcloth.
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