Eh.

There were no good pattern sales the other day, and I wanted something new, so I had a foray through the New Look book. I picked out number 6803, thinking I'd give another dress a try. Something easier and quicker than the last one! The one that caught my eye was view B, with the pleated neckline and cap sleeves. I also liked the look of the belt.

Of course, once I got home and read the reviews on Pattern Review, I started to have second thoughts, as people weren't exactly turning cartwheels over the fit. Oh well, what do you expect from a dress you pull on over your head? I decided to be inspired by Ec's review and give it a try.

Still proceeding cautiously, I pulled out some fabric I'd had second thoughts about to make a muslin. Originally, this fabric was meant for a Duro-style dress, which was all the rage on the Dress A Day blog a few years back. Problem was, I didn't know how to sew then, so I never made it. Then, by the time I could sew, I came to my senses and realized that would be a horrible mess! I used some of the fabric for a skirt, but the rest has been sitting here leering at me for years.

So, the dress. It's okay. Unlike most of the Pattern Reviewers, it isn't the fit that bothers me. Yeah, it's shapeless without the belt, but that's to be expected. My problem is with the sleeves. I think cap sleeves are the least flattering thing ever, and I knew that, but I went ahead with them anyway. Blech.

I asked my husband to take some pictures without the belt as well, and it was so funny--he kept saying, "You're not going to like these." He's right. I'll be a sport and show them to you anyway!




















I did like the idea of pockets, but I can't use them once I put on the belt. If I ever make this again, I'll either leave the pockets out or add a little length to the top. I also wonder about sewing the pleats at the neckline down. Would that look completely weird or might it help with the poufing? Hmm.