Pattern Review: Passiflore

*This pattern was sent to me by Deer And Doe in exchange for review. All opinions are my own. *

Warning: This post contains hand-sewing that may offend some audiences. Just kidding! No matter which camp you are on with the ol’ needle and thread, read on…

Description: The Passiflore dress and top is unlined with button closure, a-line silhouette, notched collar, set in sleeves (2 lengths available), and a D-ring belt. There are 2 dress lengths included in the pattern, as well as a blouse option.

I made: Version B with short sleeves.

Size range: 34-52 (33.5″-48″ hip measurement)

I made : Size 36, no adjustments except lengthening the skirt by 3″. I am 34/25/40 and 5’9″ tall. Deer & Doe draft for a C cup.

Recommended fabrics: Lightweight fabrics, rayon, tencel, cupro, silk, crepe, cotton lawn.

I used: Thrifted cotton lawn, dyed with RIT dye (equal parts “Tangerine” and “Petal Pink”)

Things I like:

Like I’ve come to expect from this company, the drafting is a dream. The interfacing is traced from the pattern pieces. The partially interfaced collar pieces roll naturally and lay neatly. The collar construction is simplified and really clear, so if collars aren’t your forte (cough, me) you will really appreciate this one. The yoke is sewn with the burrito method, and just a note here- I made another version of this pattern in a mid-weight cotton/linen slub (I will share that one soon) and it was too bulky to burrito, I had to use the flat stitch-in-the-ditch method. So I recommend a fabric without too much body. Again, with the drafting, I will try not to gush, but honestly… those sleeves went in like butter. (Set-in sleeves aren’t my forte either.) On my other version, I had sleeve tower-placket victory and highly recommend trying them!

I love the vintage feel of the dress, I love the balanced silhouette, and I love the belt as a change from the usual style. I think this garment treads the perfect line between dress and coat.

Things I didn’t like:

Okay. This is easily fixed, but…no pockets! Why! Haha. I’m adding some next time. Probably in-seam. Possibly patch. Anyways.

Next, there is a lot of hand-sewing in the instructions for version B. I really like the hand-sewing at the collar, I think it is well worth it. I did not hand-stitch the entire facing. I stitched it in the ditch. If you are looking to slow down and maybe for a project to take out of the sewing space, this will be a lovely method for you. Whichever you decide, enjoy it!

That’s it! Thanks for stopping by.

(Stay tuned for my other version…this pattern has some versatility.)