Simplicity 1364 - Bloggers Challenge

A while back I mentioned I entered the Simplicity Bloggers Challenge.  My challenge is the Best Vintage Make category using Simplicity 1364 which is a relaunch of a classic vintage pattern.

I started by making a mock up of the top (view D) in calico. 

On first fitting it was a little tight around the top but I let out some of the seams under the arms which made it fit much better. However I'm not happy with the facing around the neck as it seems a bit bulky so decided to replace it with some satin bias binding.

Ultimately this is the fabric I'll be using, Prim Cotton Lawn - Hanakatoba, which I hope is fairly vintage looking.

And this is the final product!

I found this pattern very easy to follow as it just consisted of three main pattern pieces. The fabric was also a dream to work with. I did have to make a minor adjustment by increasing the seam allowance down the back as there seemed to be too much excess material. I also added an invisible zip instead of the regular one.

I would make this top again, I just need to find the right material! 

New Look 6223

This was the first item of clothing I made in my dressmaking adventures. It's a pretty dress that can be made to look formal or casual dependant on the material used.

New Look 6223 

I made view D in navy linen. It's a lovely fabric and drapes well but doesn't half crease! The fabric also stretched slightly on the skirt so when it came to joining it to the bodice none of the seams matched up! A few choice words later I ended up increasing some of the pleats to use up the excess material. It still doesn't look great but I'm still chuffed with it.

I will get a photo of me sometime!

I found the pattern as a beginner fairly easy to follow. I was lucky as I did this dress during a six week dressmaking course so had an instructor on hand in case I got stuck.

Overall the dress fits really well. I cut a 14 but had to add a little bit to the waist on both bodice and skirt as my waist has got slightly bigger over the years!