This review was originally featured in Threads #182 (December 2015/January 2016).

Maker’s Atelier: Drawstring-Neck Dress and Top

The just-below-the-knee dress is smart and practical. The neckline is finished with a narrow bias facing, which forms an elastic casing. The gathered sleeves have turned-and-stitched hems that also form casings. Seam allowances are 1 cm (about 3⁄8 inch) and are indicated on the tissue as notches. For a smooth sleeve casing, our tester recommends cutting a slightly wider underarm seam allowance in the casing area. The top version is cut at hip level. The pattern is ideal for drapey woven or knit fabrics, such as silk jersey, viscose jersey, silk charmeuse, rayon, and crepe.

(Sized 4–14 for busts 32–42 in. and hips 35–45 in.)

Style Tip: Split the dress pattern at the cutting line for the top version, then cut and sew the dress in two fabrics.

-Tested by Karen Konicki, New York, New York

Have you made this pattern? If so, be sure to share pictures in our Readers Closet gallery.

Launch Gallery