I like so many of the styles in the 6/2014 issue of Burda Style. I decided to sew #104 first to be able to wear it to an upcoming BBQ.
I used Indigo Blue Ponte Knit which was a good fabric for this dress. I did prewash the fabric and it shrunk 4″ in length.
(sold out)
I didn’t realize until after I traced the pattern pieces that the bands (pattern pieces #24 and #25) were templates for purchased trim. I rummaged through my Mother’s stash and found a nice cotton trim that was a good match but I was 1 yard short. I’m sure my Mother used this for a home dec project and that she probably purchased it from JoAnn. I decided to see if by chance JoAnn still carried this trim. To my surprise (surprised because this trim would have to be about 10 years old) they did and even the dye lot was very close.
This dress is very quick to make but the instructions for the bands could be confusing for a beginner. I wouldn’t want anyone to by pass this dress because of that so I’ll share how I put the bands together and attached them to the dress. I’m only demonstrating on one side of the dress.
- Be sure to purchase a trim that is made from a natural fiber-something not too thick and is pliable.
- Don’t forget to add seam allowances-I used 3/8” to reduce the bulk.
- Press the trim into the shape of #24. This piece will need to curve under the arm. This is why I suggest you use a natural fiber trim. Don’t forget to press one for the left side and one for the right by flipping the pattern piece.
- Stitch piece 24 and 25 together-this will be the underarm seam (marker #6).
- Stitch piece 25 together-this is the center back (marker #4)
- Press the seams open. Press and fold the excess trim up.
- Match the underarm seam with the side seam of the dress.
- Starting at the back edgestitch the trim to the dress stopping at the front neckline.
- Match the center back trim to the center back of the dress. Starting at the upper back edgestitch stitch to the center back, pivot and continue to the other side.
And that’s it! I hope the steps I shared are clear. If not, let me know and I’ll try again. I didn’t add the belt loops so the hem was my last step. You can sew this dress up in just a few hours. I also like the version with the sleeves. I think it would look great made up in a sparkly knit for a special occasion dress.
I have my eye on this one (and yes June has soooo many good things!). This looks FABULOUS on you! Thanks for the tutorial on the bands.
Gorgeous!! I remember you wore this to our meeting..I ran home and found that I had already purchased this fabric last year while in NYC. I washed it and lo-and-behold, it is now much shorter. Thanks for the tip on the straps. I won't be your twinsie on this one, but definitely will be making this dress. BTW, did you have to do a FBA.
That is so gorgeous! You look so awesome in this dress. I love the way the neckline drapes.Thanks for the tips on the trim, you really got lucky finding more.
@Nakisha-Thank you! You will look divine in this dress!@Andrea-Thank you! I don't mind being twinsies with you. No, I didn't do a FBA.@Becki-Thanks and I was very lucky!
Yes, this dress does look great on you – it's a gorgeous pattern and in navy, a winner anywhere, anytime.
Lovely dress! Thanks for instructions on how to sew on the trim.
Thank you Sara Liz and Levone!
Thank you for this. I was hoping to find any examples and stumbled on yours! Now i've seen how to create this i'm going to! Thanks again!!!
I'm glad that I could be of help to you Annemieke. I would love to see your version!
Inspirational creation Roz. Can you post more daily fashion photos as you have a very cool style.
Thank you so much for your instructions! I already became desperate but now i am able to finish this dress 🙂
I loved this when I saw it! Love your blog Roz.
Thank you Justine! Is was so nice to meet you this week.