Juliette's Dress By Lily Bird Studio
/Today we are looking at the lovely Juliette's Dress pattern by Lily Bird Studio. You can use the code PRJULIETTE for 30% off your purchase at Lily Bird Studio through Tuesday Sept. 9. Be sure to enter to win a 3 pack of patterns at the end of this post.
Juliette's Dress is a vintage inspired design that includes two different views.
View A features a pieced bodice and flared skirt and view B uses the same pieced bodice and a gathered skirt. The pattern comes in sizes 2 years through 10 years and includes a final measurement chart to assist in choosing the correct size. The design really appeals to me because it is both simple and ultra feminine at the same time. I love that the lines of dress make it girly and sweet without any ruffles.
I chose to do view B and I had to make a mixed size for my chunky little toddler. I made the size 5 bodice and size 3 length. I also ended up piecing my skirt due to a fabric shortage (oops!), so my skirt has side seams instead of just one seam in the back.
I've made a few Lily Bird patterns before, so I knew what to expect when I tackled the pattern. It came together much more quickly than I was expecting, less than an hour and a half to complete it. The pattern printed without issue and the pieces came together perfectly. There were 16 pages of color coded, nested pattern pieces to print and a print diagram was included showing the layout of the pieces.
Here are a few things I really love about the pattern:
- The design, it's so "me" ;)
- The free bonus petticoat pattern (that I did not have time to make, but will next time!)
- It is not a fabric hog
- Simple closure options including ribbon tie, buttons, or snaps
- Includes measurements in both metric and imperial
- Includes a pattern/fabric cutting diagram
- No pattern piece to print for rectangular skirt piece (View B)
- Very clear step by step photos
- Simplicity and clarity of instructions
Here's what I would do differently next time I make it (and there will be a next time!):
- Increase the seam allowance. 1/4" just isn't enough for me to work with when making a fully lined bodice and encasing the skirt seam. Simple fix- just rubber band 2 pencils together and trace around the pattern piece. It wasn't too terribly difficult with 1/4" but it would have gone a lot faster using 3/8" or 1/2".
- Add a few inches to the hem and sew a blind hem instead of a simple serge and turn once hem. The dress is just so, so gorgeous, and I think the richness of a blind hem better matches the feel of the design. That's just my personal taste, of course.
I really love the lines of this dress. You can totally change the look by using two different fabrics. I'll be doing that next time. Here's a lovely example from the designer's website. You can also see how it looks an older, taller model.
I love the little cap sleeves.
Perfection.
If you're looking for a pretty little party dress, this is the ticket.
All ready for her birthday party next week! (Except that I also have to make her an "Anna" dress, per her request)
Kara made view A for her daughter. Poor thing wanted to pick out her own clothes for church, but mama had other plans. I think we've all been there, right???
This is a pattern I will be coming back to again and again. I'd love to see it in tweens or women's someday too!