Back when Lindybop sold fabric as well as clothing, I bought this book print stretch spandex crepe. It appealed to my love of a good book and the colours felt wonderfully Autumnal. Sadly Lindybop no longer sell fabric but I’ve made a few pieces with their prints that I love.
I made Simplicity 9294 aka B6556 from my stash. This Gertie design has a beautiful square neckline with a full pleated skirt and all important pockets. But I decided to gather the skirt instead of pleat it, and add a fun hem ruffle. The sleeves were just extended at the hem to elbow length. Then late in the day I added the sleeve hem ruffles to mirror the effect of the skirt and balance out the top of the dress.
It’s unlined with a facing at the neckline. I made a size 12 in the upper bodice, grading to a 14 at the waist just like my last version but alas, it’s a little tight – only a teeny little bit mind you, as it makes the zipper slightly less invisible than when it’s not being worn. That’s quite annoying to me because I worked so hard on the pattern matching across the centre back seam and the hint of zipper now distracts from that!
That’s only a small amount I know, but I’ve got to be honest with myself about it. I’m still really pleased with how each shelf lines up across the back and around the side seams. Pattern matching is such a pleasure for me and this print was quite detailed. I even got the little cobweb matched.
It’s not quite a true square neckline (like my other version I find it jewel shaped) and the sleeves do pull it off the shoulders a little the longer you wear it… so I’ll likely wear it out for dinner and shorter bursts of time with that in mind.
For comparison here’s what the brand made with the brown colourway of the fabric, a sweet shirtdress and skirt which they called “Christine” that are both still available. I prefer the teal base I must confess.
Gorgeous! Love the bright colour of the teal. Great pattern matching. Well done!