Here’s my entry for the Indie Pattern Month Contest for Dresses. I hope everyone is having fun sewing up all their entries for the contests this month. I know I am!

• Pattern? Why did you choose it? I used Lekala Sewing Pattern #5124, a sleeveless blouse pattern for the neckline and because I wanted my personal size front darts and back darts. Then, I excluded the button up front and added a seam in the back for a zipper. The skirt is just 2 rectangles gathered at the waist. I also added side pockets.

• What fabric did you use? Why did you choose it? I used a light-weight cotton blend from my stash. It’s a pretty green/blue/orage floral that I thought would lend itself nicely to the 50’s look I was going for.

• Would you recommend the pattern? Would you change anything next time? In theory, the bodice worked out well, but next time I think I will just choose a bodice that doesn’t have a button down front. It will probably save me some time.

• Any interesting details? I lined the bodice which makes for a flat finish along the neck and armholes. I turned it right side out by pulling the backs through the shoulders. Then I under-stitched as much as I could. I went all out on the belt. I used a belt buckle from an existing belt, and several layers of very thick interfacing to form the belt. I used orange thread to sew decorative stitching along the edges. I even made orange eylet buttonholes.

• What do you think of your finished garment? I love it! It has a a great swish and twirl!

• First worn? We walked around the block and found a field full of blooming dandelions. My husband is really getting to be quite a good fashion photographer!

Happy Sewing!