Butterick 5209 Pattern Review

Pattern Review:Butterick 5209

Pattern Description: Halter dress, below mid-knee length, side zipper, fitted self-lined bodice and flared, gathered skirt.

Pattern Sizing: 6-20. I started with a size 8 then adjusted.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? This is a reprint of a 1947 pattern. I liked the clean lines and gathers.

Fabric Used: Cotton eyelet for the self, cotton lining.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: I started with a size 8 and adjusted to fit my measurements. I think in the future I need to add more width to the bodice so there is more bodice to gather. I also used a hook and eye closure for the halter top, since on my muslin sewing the halter top together meant it would barely fit over my head. I modified the skirt and did not put waist gathers on the waist, but added a self-drafted circle skirt. I also merrowed the side seams, and stitched over them for extra reinforcement.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I would, with adjustments.

Conclusion I really like the retro feel of this dress. I did not like working with eyelet though. The embroidery is thick and sometimes the needle would get stuck. I would probably make this again with wider adjustments for the bodice for more gathering, and in a solid non-eyelet colour.

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