This review was originally featured in Threads #186 (August/September 2016).

Ralph Pink: Ariani Dress

This bias-cut, sleeveless dress has a band collar, self-lined flounces edging the neckline and the front armscyes, and a center-back zipper. Check the layout diagram carefully, as our seamstress found errors. The seam allowance information is not in the instructions; it is below the cutting key on the pattern. Our tester realized that a side-seam notch, a helpful match point on a bias seam, is missing on the lower back pattern piece. The armhole and neckline flounces are inserted between the shoulder seams. However, the neckline flounce extends beyond the shoulder, making it impossible to add the armhole facing. It is best to sew the flounce shoulder seams separately, then tack the flounce to the shoulder seams when the dress is completed. Linen is suggested for the dress and chiffon for the flounces.

(Sized 0-12 [4-16 UK] for finished busts 32-42 in. and hips 34.5-44.5 in.) 

Sewing Tip: If you want the grain to form a chevron at center back, flip over one back pattern piece.

-Tested by Janith Bergeron, Barrington, New Hampshire

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