Hi there! I’m Kari from That’s-Sew-Kari here with a review of the Allie Oop Top & Dress -- the latest release for brownie-goose. This pattern is a sweet summer swing design (say that 5 times fast) and comes in both top and dress length. The sizes range from 6/12m thru girls 12. A few features are the curved yoke and hem, optional keyhole opening and the shoulder flaps that button in the back.

This pattern is easy to put together -- just a few pattern pieces -- with a professional finish. The inside bodice seams are hidden, making the only non-enclosed seams down each side of the skirt. If you’re like me, though, and sew late at night mere feet from a sleeping husband, you may just find yourself using French seams for the sides so you don’t have to run the noisy serger.

Although the pattern pieces print in color, the bodices are not nested by size so you could probably save some color and print in B&W. The front and back bodice is nested, however, which means you can either trace, print a second copy, or cut the unneeded portion (either front or back line) and simply tape the cut portion back on and cut the remaining yoke. The skirt piece sizes are all nested, but easy to follow which cutting line you need to use should you choose to print in B&W. The instructional style is conversational and easy to follow along with the included pictures. In the back of the tutorial, you’ll find two mini tutorials on how to reduce length or width.

I sewed up the size 3 width with a 5 length for my 6 year old. Don’t worry, sizing in the pattern is not off! My daughter is petite (but makes up for it in sass, don’t you think?!) and often requires a smaller size in all patterns. It’s a perfect fit, with just enough room that she can layer a tee in the colder months for year-round wear. As I was looking through my fabrics to get inspired, I came across “It’s A Girl Thing LA Boutique Girl” by Michael Miller and knew it would be perfect for my little fashionista (sadly no longer available). I paired it with a turquoise broadcloth that was in my remnant bin. I used a black and white striped button for my keyhole opening and 4 small black buttons on the shoulder flaps.

I really love the included details in the pattern. I took Amy’s advice in the pattern and did a double row of topstitching on the curved hem which made for a nice touch. And I love that the section on bias binding for the arms showed the proper method for attaching bias. It honestly irks me when the cheater’s method is used in a pattern (like it’s cheating the new sewers from learning proper techniques). The keyhole is unique, but definitely isn’t something to be rushed. Take your time to get the best results (PS… broadcloth made it a tad fiddly, simply because there’s not a lot of weight to the material).

I will definitely be making more Allie Oops! This particular outfit is earmarked as her first day of 1st grade (minus the sunglasses...lol)!! Based on the pictures, I’d say my daughter clearly loves it!!!