One of the classes I am teaching soon (here) is The Staple Dress and so, of course, I had to make myself another one to display at the shop. This time I used an Anna Maria Horner print and lined it up so the print runs beautifully right down the front of the dress. 
The important details: I sized this XS and I am by no means an XS girl, I just ain’t. The dress is just so blousy and oversized that an XS fits me best so keep that in mind if you make this dress. The fabric is stunning and soft and so beautiful, it’s a linen-cotton blend and it needed 8 lines of elastic shirring at the waist to properly gather. I think the pattern recommends 3 to 4. I finally made it with a hi-lo hem and I love it! I’m not one to go for big drama with my clothing but this hem is really nice and adds just a bit more interest and dimension to the dress.
I still have mixed feelings about this pattern, overall. I like this version the best of all of the times I’ve made the dress but it still feels like I’m working pretty hard to ensure I don’t end up with a sack. This version is wearable and the dress comes together easily, which is very nice, but I’m still not nuts about it. On the other hand, with this nice print and it’s easy going style, I think I will wear it often enough.
Can you tell I’m not crazy about pictures of myself? It’s just that some days I don’t really wanna shower or smile is all. Ever been there?
Oh! I would never have thought a fabric as heavy as this would work on the staple dress, but it looks really great! I’m worried about the possible “sack” result on it too – I have the pattern but haven’t made it yet – and it seems to be all in the fabric selection. Yours looks so good, though – love that it’s more a-line because of the more structured fabric! That print is always a winner, too.
I know, I was surprised that such a heavy fabric worked myself. But, I agree that I do like the structure it give even if it did take 8 lines of shirring. You should totally try this pattern, I’m eager to hear what you think.
That fabric with the yellow shoes! Just lovely. You did a great job with this one.
Thanks!
Doing my homework and saying hello. I love this dress and the shoes too.
Thank you!!
Oh my word – this is gorgeous!
Oh, you are so sweet. Thanks!