I’ve been keen to make a shirt dress since seeing a gorgeous navy shirt dress on Pinterest a couple of years ago. I bought the pattern New Look 6180 with the intention of sewing it up in a liberty print. I ended up using the liberty print for the Odette dress so the shirt dress was put on hold.
I was inspired again by some dresses I spotted on ASOS. I really wanted a deep green polka dot but couldn’t find any fabric like that so I settled for the Navy hearts which I’m really happy about now as it looks cute, kinda like a polka dot. The fabric is from Darn Cheap fabrics in Glenhuntly, Melbourne. I think there’s some polyester in it as it isn’t the nicest of fabrics to sew. It didn’t really press well and the drape is average. A pure cotton or even a bit of rayon would be much nicer.
The pattern was really easy to sew up. I chose the sleeveless version as I was worried about it looking a bit frumpy with sleeves. No zipper, yah! Just an easy elastic waist, collar and button holes required. I must admit, I hate sewing collars, fiddly little things sometimes. But, if you follow the instructions carefully they will turn out ok.
To sum up, the pattern is easy, the fabric is ok, I like the design of the fabric but not the composition. The dress looks really pretty and it’s comfy to wear. I will be sewing up another one for sure but I might head off to my favourite little fabric shop Tessuti in Flinders Lane, Melbourne to find some gorgeous fabric.
Charlotte
You’ve just inspired me to order this pattern, looks great! I love the heart print! Can I be cheeky and ask what type of fabric you would suggest and how much, that way I can get some in order ready!
Nine Stitches
Hi Charlotte,
Yes you can be cheeky!
If you add a sleeve you will need 2.5 mtrs of 150cm wide fabric. 3 mtrs of 115cm wide.
I think a nice cotton blend (Liberty would be perfect), silk/rayon, or a chambray would be perfect. Good luck! x