Fabric58″80% Linen 20% Rayon12.00Prewash: Wash cold on the gentle cycle; Dry on the perma press cycle
Notions: Thread, 22″ invisible zipper, stay tape, buttons, hooks & eyes, lining, rayon hem tapeAlterations: I had to do my standard FBA. I also extended the waist in the front 1/4″ by slashing and spreading. The front wraps around the waist to the back. I extended the back 1″.The full skirt was a little too retro for me which is why I substituted a straight skirt from Butterick 6706.
Construction Details: This pattern is rated easy. I think it is easy for an experienced sewer but not so much for a beginner. The instructions are good but of course I added a few things. I used stay tape at the armhole and the neckline. I shortened the stay tape 1″ at the armhole and 1/2″ at the neckline to ease in the extra fullness. As I stated above, the bodice front wraps around to the back . I substituted the hooks for 3 flat buttons.
The back wraps to the front, crosses and ties in the back. I don’t like ties. I shortened theties to meet in the back (plus an additional 1 1/4″ for lap over), added 2 pleats (just eyeball them), a facing and hook and eyes.
The bodice is self lined. I used a cotton broadcloth left over from my Mom’s stash for the skirt.
Conclusion: This pattern goes together fast. I wore this dress to an afternoon wedding last summer, but if you use a dressier brocade it could definitely be worn for evening.