Pattern Review: M7566 + the cape dress

I got the bright idea to try a pattern before the gurus at Pattern Review get a hold to it.  What was I thinking?  It has been cold her in the Carolina’s, well everywhere actually, it was winter then spring, now it’s winter again!  I want to wear a sundress!!! OK, tantrum over, but really, why is it so cold?  I’m trying to stay consistent with my sewing and actually make stuff that I will wear.  So I’m wearing this dress around the house with my white sandals, because its 50 degrees outside.  I think this dress will get lots of wear, I’m not in love with the dress, but I think I can make adjustments next time to make it better or at least give the other view a try.

Pattern Description:

 
Fitted-through-bodice dress has bodice and length variations.

Pattern Sizing:

 

14-22.  I cut size 22

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

 

Yes, although my print makes it hard to see how the cape is constructed.

Were the instructions easy to follow?

 

Yes, I would say so, not the best, but easy.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

 
I like the cape and flutter neckline options.  I don’t
like that for the use of knit in view B & D you are lining both
bodice and skirt.  The lining on the skirt pulled the bodice down, with a
light weight knit it would be ok, but the V on view b was already
plunging, it pulled it down a little too much.  Also, I don’t know if I
like how the cape is attached in the front.  I feel it could be cut on
the fold at Center Front for this view for the bodice front and the
cape, I felt like it was a lot of bulk a the V with both seams.  I also
don’t like the gathering stitches on the back neckline, I couldn’t get
it to lay flat even with steam and top stitching.

Fabric Used:

Poly/Lycra knit

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

 
*I didn’t grade up per my usual to size 24 as I was making it with a knit.
*I did my standard forward shoulder adjustment
*I did not add a zipper because I used a knit with some stretch since it went over my head.
*I left a three inch opening at the upper back for venting since I didn’t use a zipper.
*I didn’t hem because of the knit and I  attached the armhole to lining.  If I line again, I will attach neckline and armhole before attaching skirt so I don’t have to hand stitch.

Would you sew it again? 
I
think I will try view A, I like the flutter neckline, but I don’t think
I will use this cape without adjustments to avoid the gathering
stitches at the back neckline.  Neckline is deeper than I thought, I may consider adding elastic to the
skirt before attaching or change the skirt as to avoid gathers, I’m not
sure.

Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, with modifications.