The Jessica Dress!
12:00 AM
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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27 comments
It's a beautiful color and I love that you cut around the eyelet for the hem!
ReplyDeleteI just couldn’t see making a straight hem with this beautiful fabric. Thank you Carolyn!
DeleteBeautiful dress. You’re so talented. Wish I could sew. It’s on my list! Lol
ReplyDeleteThank you Margaret!
DeleteGorgeous dress and you look beautiful in it. Love the buttons.
ReplyDeleteI hate picking buttons. And I really lucked up on these. Thank you Elizabeth!
DeleteMs. Erica, you have done it again! You have a way of taking a pattern that, at first glance, I’d say, “meh” and turning it into something stunning, something I’d consider making & wearing! Your style is on point; classy, authentic, sexy but still age appropriate. Keep doing what you’re doing because you have definitely inspired me to up my sewing game. Thanks for your contribution to the sewing community.
ReplyDeleteFabric was definitely a determining factor with this dress! Thanks Florence!
DeleteI can't wait to make mine. LOVE IT!!! It's beautiful and fits like a dream.
ReplyDeleteYou’re going to love this one! Thanks Kisha!
DeleteThat is a gorgeous color on you! Fabulous dress for the summer!
ReplyDeleteThank you Belle!
DeleteSo, so pretty! And that blue is just gorgeous.
ReplyDeleteThank you Irene!
DeleteThank you Genevieve!
ReplyDeleteI love those buttons! I used them on a Hawaiian print maxi that I made two years ago. They really added a little interest to the garment.
ReplyDeleteThey are so cool looking! Thanks Renee!
DeleteWhen using your gather foot, did you have to lengthen the stitches so that it would fit on the bodice. I would like to try it. Any info would be greatly appreciated
ReplyDeleteI always lengthen them all the way out to 5mm. That seems to create a 1.5 to 1 ratio which most patterns with gathers are drafted with. Unless the gathers are really dramatic. Thanks Bernadette.
DeleteLovely dress...I plan to make this..thanks for the bodice tip:)
ReplyDeleteThanks Lora!
DeleteYour Jessica dress is incredibly beautiful and looks amazing on you.
ReplyDeleteThank you Lori!
DeleteThis dress is beautiful!!! It really shows why its great to be able to make your own garments. The bodice fits perfect and the hem is beautiful!!!
ReplyDeleteabsolutely gorgeous
ReplyDeleteVery pretty! Thanks for all the info! and your beautiful blog!
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