Ursula by John Kaldor from Minerva Crafts is your basic black print with bold red so a maxi dress using ‘no fuss’ Simplicity 1357 was my end of Summer choice.
Simplicity 1357 has two lengths, some great sleeve variations and pockets, if you need pocket (work dress version in the future).
My trusty camera/tripod and I high-tailed it to the local lookout in the afternoon while the sun was blazing but the heat of the day had subsided. Sydney’s Summer has been a mixed bag and it’s still sizzling. I kid you not.
It was a bit nicer in the shade.
I’m going to jump into the part that was heaps of fun to do – match the pockets to the print. A long time ago, I was told the golden rule is to use a small print for a small person. I’m a small person but I love a large bold print on a simple style like this classic maxi from Simplicity 1357.
See how the neckline is high but the shoulders are cut away? This makes it great for showing of great shoulders without worrying about fitting the dress to your body. When it’s humid, a flowy maxi dress that’s unlined like this dress is perfect. PS. I wear this with a perfect cross back bra for ‘support’.
The back shoulders are also cut away so you feel cool. This style is similar to Lily Pulitzer maxi dresses.
I calculated I should make the pattern with bust 14, waist 18 and hips 12. After the test version I made bust 12, waist 12 and hips 12. This gives you an idea of the ease this pattern provides. If you’re a beach person, stick with the ease provided.
The sway back does fall nicely – except in this shot (he he).
The only pattern adjustment I made was at the waistline with a sway back adjustment. My test dress showed me that the neckline finish only needed a bias tape finish so I didn’t used the facings on this version.
While I’m being’ blown away’ in this shot, the fabric washes easily, doesn’t need too much ironing and is easy to sew.
This dress simply consists of front, back and pocket pieces when you use bias binding for the arm and neckline finishes. Real simple. Real fast.
I don’t usually wear or buy maxi dresses but I’m sold on this dress to see out the rest of our hot, humid Summer.
Here’s my offer to you:
When I received my Minerva Crafts UK projects, I was sent this pattern in 20W – 28W. Vicki quickly supplied me with this pattern in 10 – 18.
If you are interested in this pattern and live in Australia or New Zealand, leave a comment and I’ll post this to you for free.
Thanks again to Minerva Crafts UK to providing me with the patterns and notions to stay stylish this Summer.
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