Sometimes on petite ladies, the neckline sometimes comes out too low becuase of the shorter distance from her neck to her bust, so I would love to know if there's a way to either alter a pattern to avoid that problem, or if there's a right way to take it up at the shoulder seam?

This looks like awesome inspiration!

I have used about 5 different downloadable patterns. They are mostly from Burdastyle. There are some advantages- once you buy it, you can print out as many as you want. If you are making the same dress for different people (like a bridesmaid gown, for example) you can cut out the pattern in each size you need. (With a store bought pattern, once its cut, you can't make a bigger size.) Another advantage is that you can have the pattern as soon as you want it. You don't have to drive to the store, or order one and wait for it to arrive. Disadvantages- sometimes it can be really hard to figure out which line equals which size! On one dress, I cut out the largest size but that turned out to be quite small (34 inch bust, 26 inch waist, 35 inch hips.) Also, it takes a lot of time to tape together 50 sheets of computer paper to make a whole pattern! It didn't bother me that the patterns aren't transparent like store bought patterns because I don't use many printed fabrics, but I do see how that could bother people to use a pattern on computer paper because you can't see through it to make sure you're cutting it in a way that your stripes, polka dots, or other patterned fabric will line up correctly.

I would love a retro print to make a nice timeless dress!

I am ready to start taking steps toward a career change! I have been sewing my whole life (I'm 31 and I started sewing when I was 9!) but I work a boring office job. I want to get my skills as perfect as possible and start my own sewing business! These DVDs would really help me perfect my skills and help me change my life. :)