M7115- Tiered Dress

I didn’t know if I would like this tiered dress, I don’t usually go for ruffles and tiers, I don’t know why, I just don’t. I plucked this pattern out of my donate pile. I don’t know why I have bags of patterns to donate if I’m going to sew them 😬. The pattern is currently out of print but there are a few on Etsy and Ebay. I looked for dresses with a nice v neck or wrap bodice and an easy breezy feel so this met my criteria. Instead of purchasing a newer pattern or an indie pattern, I gave this a try.

I rate this a C on my size inclusive scale, It goes up to XXL (24-26) and with the gathers it’s really easy to grade up. I made the largest size of view C with view A’s sleeve. For the adjustments, I shortened the bodice by four inches, I usually have to lengthen bodices so this put the bodice right at my natural waist. For the skirt & ruffle, I shortened the skirt pattern piece to get them to 26″. As per my usual with this type of bodice, I lower the side seam circle one inch to make the arm opening larger. I used a rayon dead stock designer fabric from LA Finch Fabrics I purchased a few months ago and it is so comfortable. The fabric has a nice weight, a little heavier than challis and not really shifty which was great.

When I make this again, I will shorten the back bodice by and additional 1-1.5″ grading to nothing at the side seam. I will take in the skirt by eight inches at the hem and probably leave off the bottom ruffle. So, dealing with gathers are a pain, I would leave it off because I’m lazy. I will probably take in each side seam of the bodice by about an inch. I will also add a side seam invisible zipper and pockets. Last but not least, I may also shorten the sleeve, not sure.

I can’t say I would recommend this pattern as it’s out of print but I would say try a similar type dress and see how you like it. I don’t think I would like this dress in a cotton or stiff fabric, it would be too much of a tent. I have another Webster top on my table and maybe pants are in my future.