Made By A Fabricista: A fabulous make outside my sewing comfort zone!

Hi sewing friends!

Have you ever decided to try a pattern or color outside your comfort zone just to try something new? I often try to try to stick to what styles I know, make patterns on repeat because I know I will love it. Sometimes my makes look very similar to the colors I choose as well. This time, I am going outside my sewing comfort zone! I chose the Friday Pattern Company Davenport dress in an orange patterned Fabric Mart rayon.

I have seen so many beautiful Davenport dresses on Instagram. I have made many Friday Pattern Company patterns that usually fit me really well without many pattern adjustments. I thought the ruffle sleeve on the shoulder, high neckline, long sleeves and tie waist would not be my style.

I am so happy to say that I was wrong! I chose a non-floral orange print rayon with a white background which is a gorgeous fabric but not my usual choice of pattern or color. I LOVE rayon, and this one is so soft and very opaque. Rayon is one of my favorite fabrics to wear. I tend to choose dark colors with floral patterns, so this beautiful orange is a very nice addition to my wardrobe!

The dress is midi length dress on ME. It is drafted for a person 5’6’, and I am 5’10” so I was surprised it was so long on me. The photo on the pattern looks like it is knee length. I suggest measuring to make sure the length is what you prefer. The neckline is comfortable and has elastic in a channel that can be made to your preference. I chose to make the elastic a little longer, so it didn’t feel tight on my neck and it was a perfect fit. I made short sleeves and just made the elastic a length that fit me.

I made the shoulder ruffle double sided so when it flips over, you don’t see the wrong side of the fabric. I cut 2 pairs and sewed them together before seeing them to the dress. There were a few more layers to see through, but just go slow. The way the front yolk is constructed was interesting and fun! I enjoy learning new sewing techniques when I make a new pattern.

The tie waist is constructed using an outer channel instead of one on the inside. No buttonholes required, I was quite impressed with this method. I think it looks nice also. The pockets are super deep and big! You could omit the pockets and cut 2 backs.

I added a label on the inside of the yolk before constructing it using the burrito method so no stitches are seen on the outside. I love this dress and can’t wait to make another one with long sleeves for the fall. The Davenport lives up to all the hype, it is beautifully constructed, fun to make and really is like wearing secret pajamas.

I really enjoyed sewing this pattern and the fabric was wonderful to sew and even more amazing to wear! I used a needle for light weight fabric to I hope you will try something outside your sewing comfort zone. You might be surprised and love it like me!

Happy Sewing,

Patricia | @Hoppaheedahoe

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