This was written by An from StraightGrain for the Miss Matatabi Makers series.

∆ ∆ ∆

It’s been years since I’ve sewn for myself; not because I don’t like to, but simply because I never got round to it. For years I’ve been dreaming of finding the perfect pattern for me, and then make it in a few dozens of pretty fabrics. When I spotted a beautiful linen in Frances’ store, I thought I’d take the opportunity to finally start my search.

I ordered Burda 7137 and made it in the smallest size. Unfortunately, it turned out to be too big, especially at the shoulders and in the waist. Odd, because I’m not super skinny. And super skinny is definitely not what this dress makes me look. Mr. StraightGrain called it ‘anything but flattering’ (twice), and he’s completely right. They often say that the camera adds 10 pounds, but this dress adds at least 20 for me. Fifteen of which to my butt.

Nevertheless, I really see this pattern as a useful step towards finding the perfect dress pattern for me. I just need to make a few alterations: narrowing the shoulders and waist; going for the short sleeves instead of the 3/4; altering the bust darts (which currently seem to add an extra pair of nipples), and redrawing the skirt into a more flattering A-line shape. Because: there are many things to like about this pattern! I love the shape of the neckline; the 3 other pairs of darts are perfect; it has a blind zipper in the back; and this very simple yet tailored shape is exactly what I was looking for.

But let’s talk about the fabric. When I think about linen, I think: thick, coarse, and full of wrinkles. But this Linen Stones fabric is soooo different. It’s is light weight, with a very fine weave, a great drape, and it doesn’t seem to wrinkle easily. It’s just the perfect material for a garment. It also comes in three other colorways.

∆ ∆ ∆

Thank you so much An! Connect with An on her blog, instagram, facebook, and pinterest.