The Eloise Dress and Top by Foo Foo Threads
/Hi there! It’s Kari from That’s-Sew-Kari, back with a review of the newest FooFoo Threads patterns. The Eloise Girls Vintage Handkerchief Sleeve Dress and Top is vintage inspired with gorgeous handkerchief style sleeves. There are several options included in this pattern which makes it easy to tailor to your liking. Some of the included options are: two lengths- dress (vintage length) or top (hip length), optional angled waistband and back ties, two sleeves - handkerchief and “split” sleeves for a more dramatic effect, and last but not least, optional trims. The size range covers 6/12 month - GIrls 10. This pattern also pairs SO fantastically with the Easy Leggings with Cuffs -- check out Nacole’s version below to see that pairing.
When I saw the sample pictures of this project, I thought it was so super cute! I have never taken the plunge on the handkerchief sleeves and thought now was the perfect time to step outside of my comfort zone. I looked through my stash and unfortunately, my knit and woven coordinating stash is seriously lacking so I decided on making the dress version to pair with my daughter’s fall boots. I then checked my hoarded wovens and nothing was jumping out at me. Naturally, I ran to Hobby Lobby… LOL I was really looking for a nice fall print and stumbled across this gorgeous brushed rayon in a navy and green plaid. I quickly paid and then took it home to work up the courage to cut into it. I cut the skirt and then nearly talked myself out of using it. Luckily, I decided to keep going. [Cutting brushed rayon - especially with a plaid - is a SLOW process, but actually sews up quite nicely.]
The pattern contains many options for trims, coordinating waistband, back ties and more, but sometimes I prefer to sew up a “simple” version and let the fabric speak for itself. If you know me, I am quite picky about making sure my plaids (or stripes or print...haha) match across the seams and are showcased as best I can. It’s never the quickest process, but the end result is always worth it.
FooFoo Threads writes a VERY thorough tutorial. If you are a newer seamstress, you will really appreciate the thoroughness. If you are a seasoned seamstress, you may find it a little wordy, BUT it’s best to have more information than less, in my opinion. Plus, you may actually learn something new! Each step is laid out with clear pictures. There is also a table of contents to make it easy to navigate the tutorial. There is a measurement chart with chest measurements and finished chest as well as lengths are included. My only wish is that the child’s height was on the chart as well. I have very thin girls (2/3 chest with a 5/6 height) so I have to blend sizes every time to get the intended fit. Luckily I was able to use the finished length and check it on my daughter, but sometimes I sew when she is asleep. I sewed a 3 width with a 5 length for this version for my 6 year old. The length is perfect and the bodice fits comfortably as well. (P.S. I usually sew a 3/5 blend in most designers for her so the sizing is on par with my other patterns.)
This pattern sews up really easily and there are even tricks to reducing the bulk at the hemlines. The placket is SUPER easy and one of my favorite types of plackets to sew because it is seriously foolproof. The back bodice uses button loops in lieu of button holes which is beginner friendly. I really loved that the beginning steps have you iron all your hems. I do this with every pattern so I felt a bit validated :) I prefer ironing all my hems when my fabric is flat -- so much easier!
I have the tunic version with cuff leggings planned for my 8 year old in a more “fashionista” vibe, but I had forgotten to place my knit order so I didn’t get it sewn in time for this review. SOON!!! She will rock it, for sure.
Nacole's version:
Laura's version:
Today Kari reviews the Eloise Dress by Foo Foo Threads while Laura sews up another version as well. This dress or shirt is super adorable and fun to wear.