Oh, My Darling.

Recently, I was asked to review the Clementine Dress and Top pattern from Forget-Me-Not Patterns, a brand new NZ-based indie company. I have been working really hard to keep my project list manageable (ha ha) but when I saw the design and read a bit more about them, I had to say yes!

The Pattern:

The Clementine Dress is designed for knits and uses princess seaming in front and back for shaping. The bodice fits at the bust, skims the waist,and flares at the high hip. There are 3 sleeve length options, a cowl neckline, scoop neckline, large pockets, and a basic top version included in the pattern. I made 2 versions (spoiler: its that good) of the dress, both scoop neck. One with 3/4 sleeves and one with short sleeves.

Sizing:

The pattern is available in bust sizes 28.5″ to 48.5″ and is drafted for a B cup, and height of 5’6″. I made a straight size based on the finished measurements (I want negative ease in the bust when working with stretch fabrics) I lengthened the bodice piece by 0.5″. I lengthened the skirt by 3″ in the blue version, and left the length original in the floral version. (I’m 5’9″, in case you forgot 😉 )

Fabric:

Stretch knits. I used a heavy ponte knit for the blue and a fluttery ITY for the floral, and both turned out amazingly well. This pattern transitions smoothly from season to season.

Process:

This dress is easy- a neat sew for an evening or weekend! Its a great beginner project and a satisfying one for any level of sewist. The instructions are calm and organized, and it was a joy to sew. I constructed the blue version with a standard sewing machine stretch stitch, and for the floral I used the serger. I prefer my serger for the process, but the results are both beautiful. Instead of the suggest hemming, I finished the hem with woven bias binding in both to give the skirt some structure and keep the curves really smooth. I also left out the pockets (gasp!) because I wasnt sure how I’d like them in either fabric. Next time.

Notes:

To be honest, I was blown away by how good this pattern was. The drafting is thoughtful and precise. The instructions are succinct and clear. My only possible critique was to include FBA instructions- and before I even said anything they were working on that (its here in their blog)! While you’re there, take a look at some sweet hacks for this pattern. Forget-Me-Not patterns is one to watch! I have a few more versions in mind (stretch lace over a slip dress, whimsical prints for upcoming holidays..)

The only thing that could make this pattern even better was meeting Victoria and her Clementine dress, in person! Head over to her blog to read about that gorgeous poppy print version.