A chic and summery garment, this dress with lace-up front detail is a warm weather staple. This design has an inset waistband, wide shoulder straps that continue into the bodice front and back, an A-line skirt, side seam pockets, and a center-back invisible zipper closure. The entire dress is lined, but the bodice front is lined with self-fabric for additional support at the lacing detail’s large grommets. The pattern includes different bodice front panels for A, B, C, D, and DD cup sizes. The instructions are complete and include tips for blending sizes and other adjustments to ensure a good fit. Our seamstress recommends not understitching the inner pocket lining, as the stitching may show during wear. She also recommends using a flat method to create the laces if your fabric is difficult to turn. Choose lightweight to midweight woven fabrics with some body such as linen suiting, cotton broadcloth, or chambray.

(Sized 00–20 for busts 30.12–49 in. and hips 33.25–48 in.)

Itch-to-Stitch.com

—Tested by Norma Bucko, Newtown, Connecticut

Style tip: If your fabric has a bold print, a  contrasting tie stands out and draws attention to the laced detail.

This review was originally published in Threads #209, June/July 2020. Have you made this pattern? If so, be sure to share pictures in our Readers Closet gallery.

Illustrations by Steven Fleck.