FO: 80s does 50s Shirtdress

This dress has been a long time in the works. I got the pattern in early 2012 from Winnie of Scruffy Badger at a pattern swap at the Edinburgh Meet up (Winnie, I'd love to know if you ever made this?!). I bought the fabric to make it last year, but again it slipped down my list somehow. I even named it as one of my top 3 patterns in my Pattern Stash Interview earlier this year. Now, finally, here it is.

Pattern Used

Style 4280 from the 1980s, obvs. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I loved the 50s look, with deep pockets and the kimono sleeve style, so no need to set in sleeves. There are no darts but lots of pleats and tucks, including a vertical one in the back bodice (sorry, forgot to photograph the back). I wasn't sure how this would look but I like it, and it means that upper body movement is nice and easy in it.

 

There are pleats at the front shoulder but for some reason the buttons look as if they're pulling here

Fabric & Notions
Navy galaxy print cotton from The Cotton Print Factory. Buttons from stash,

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made
I had to add horizontal bust darts to the bodice, as the bodice did not sit well without them. It was really gaping - the pattern illustration does hint at this, but I wasn't sure how pronounced it would be. It would be less obvious in a more drapey fabric, but then the bodice might look droopy instead. Either way, I found there to be an excess of front bodice fabric for my tastes.

Would you sew it again and do anything different next time?
Initially I thought I wouldn't, because I found the instructions for making and finishing the button placket really confusing. I don't think I've done it correctly, but it's done and it looks acceptable, and I do really like the resulting dress. Plus I got compliments the first time I wore it, which always helps. I don't think these photos make the dress look its best though, so having seen these I'm reconsidering whether I should make it again! If I do make it again I'll lengthen the bodice a bit.

 

Did you use any new techniques?
No. But it was ages since I've made a buttonhole and although my machine has a one step buttonhole I find it very hit and miss. Sometimes I can't make it work properly and I don't know why. It's likely user error but I wish I could figure out how to fix it.

Would you recommend it to others?
With a bit of hesitation - the bodice needs more shaping and I didn't find the placket instructions very clear but I think you'll find it hard to find a better 1950s style shirtdress pattern.

Cost
Fabric    £14.85
Pattern   Free
Buttons  Stash
Total      £14.85

Conclusion
A really wearable 1950s style pattern, a great dress for Spring time. Also another make for my #vintagepledge in the bag. I've met my target of 4 items now as this is my 4th make from a vintage pattern this year.

K x