How long is your “ Sew List”? Mine is never ending! The Hazel dress from Veronica Tucker has been on my list for a while now and I finally decided to make it this month. It is a joyful sew and a great example of why I love making my own clothes. It is advertised that it is “twirlability tested”, I love that! Indeed, I want to twirl around while wearing it. I’ve wanted to sew this pattern for quite a while after seeing so many lovely versions shared on Instagram, and it definitely lived up to the inspiration. I bought it and a second pattern when there was a sale on her site. However, you don’t have to wait for a sale, I see that if you purchase 2, 3 or 4 patterns at one time you can get a discount code so look for that on her site if you’re interested. I had a question about the pattern and contacted them. They were quick to respond!
The pattern is drafted for someone around 5’4”, and at 5’10” I knew right away I’d need to add length. Adjusting the proportions to suit my height was straightforward and absolutely worth it—the finished dress feels like it was made for me, because it was. I just added 2 inches on each tier. I also added pockets, because a dress without pockets is no fun. You can add any pocket you prefer to the side seams!
I used a cotton lawn from Fabric Mart featuring colorful pineapples, which gives the dress a playful, summery vibe. I think a cotton is a perfect choice for this pattern—it’s easy to work with, holds the gathers beautifully, and has great structure. That said, I’d love to try this dress in a rayon next for a softer drape and an entirely different feel.
I used French seams throughout, which gave the inside a clean, professional finish and worked well with the fabric. I opted to cut the fabric on the straight grain rather than the cross grain. To make that work with the yardage I had, I simply measured out equal lengths for each tier. The tiers are not cut as single pieces, but the pineapple print is busy enough that you truly can’t tell where the seams are—and even if you could, it wouldn’t bother me. I also wanted to add pockets, so one long tier wouldn’t allow for that. So, I had to do some math and placement. I added the pockets to the first tier where there were already 2 side seams. They are a little high, but it’s fine. I have pockets!
I also added a cute label as a personal choice, just one more detail that makes the garment feel special and personal.
Before starting, I always read through the pattern instructions and decide whether I want to use the recommended techniques or try a different method—or even change the order of construction entirely. For this dress, I chose to start with the tiers first. That meant lots of straight seams and mindless gathering, which was perfect after busy days at work when I didn’t want to think too much. I genuinely love gathering (thank goodness, because this dress has a lot of it), and since I love wearing gathered skirts, the process was pure enjoyment for me. And in a quiet confession: I never remove my gathering stitches. Since they’re enclosed inside the French seams, no one will ever see them—and I’m perfectly fine with that. Don’t tell the sewing police.
Overall, the Hazel dress is a satisfying pattern that really encourages customization. Adapting it to suit my height, the amount of fabric I had, and my preferred construction methods is exactly why I sew. Sewing lets me make garments that fit my body, my lifestyle, and my preferences—and this dress is a perfect example of that freedom.
Follow me and lets be sewing friends! @Hoppaheedahoe
What’s on your sew list??
Happy Sewing!
Patricia | @Hoppaheedahoe
You look adorable. Yes to twirly dresses and skirts. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDelete