Pattern Testing: Violet Dress - Bluegingerdoll Patterns


"Is that a nightie?"

A rather soul-destroying question for any stitcher who's just finished a dress, don't you think? Yet that's exactly what my beloved boyfriend asked me when I unveiled my Bluegingerdoll Patterns' Violet Dress. He says it was due to the original length of the skirt on me (well below knee level), my fabric combination and the fact that my purple jersey has a raised pattern on it. Oh well, since shortening the skirt (a little too much to be honest) I like it just fine and the pattern is so cute that I'll be whipping more Violets up without doubt!


I was a Violet pattern tester and the best part of the process this time was that a feature was added to the pattern as a direct result of a change I incorporated in my make. It's always good to know you're adding value to the pattern testing process and it's super cool to know that indie designers actually listen and readily adapt to relevant suggestions.



The pattern features some seriously cute front and back yoke detailing, as well as bust gathering. I was dubious about how the latter would look on a fuller bust, but I quite like the result. There's also a choice between a pencil or flared skirt and cap or three-quarter length sleeves, meaning Violet's a pretty versatile gal! 

I don't have an awful lot to say about the construction, because even though the pattern and instructions have been improved since the pattern testing period, Violet was a really quick and easy make. I thoroughly recommend it to anyone who wants to have fun with sewing jersey and who likes comfort without sacrificing style. 



The only change I'll make next time is to take in the sleeves just a smidgeon. They're not too bad, but can be a little more fitted now that I look back at these photos. 


What do you think to the Violet Dress? Will you be buying it, or adding it to your Christmas wishlist perhaps?

Meanwhile, I'm still in America...Connecticut to be precise! This trip just keeps on giving, but we're flying back this Saturday evening and will probably land back in reality with a thud!

34 comments:

  1. Very cute. I love the texture of that jersey fabric.

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    1. Thanks Cari...I might buy the black one too!

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  2. Pretty in purple :) Do you have a serger? Or did you finish off using normal sewing machine.

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    1. Thanks! I do have a serger, but I just used my regular sewing machine without finishing the raw edges as jersey doesn't fray!

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  3. Boys never do know the right thing to say do they! It's a gorgeous dress. I love the textured jersey. I've never seen that before!

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  4. I like it and I love the fabric you've used. I don't think it looks like a nightie, it wouldn't even at the length you originally made it. I need to add some knit dresses to my winter wardrobe, I probably will get this pattern.

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  5. Definitely not a nightie! Lovely on you, that fabric is so unusual.

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  6. Lovely - and not in the least like a nightie!

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  7. It definitely doesn't look like a nightie to me - I really like it! I love all the little details on the Violet dress, it's definitely on my sewing list.

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    1. Thanks Ruth and yes, Violet has some great detailing to it!

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  8. Pretty. I am in the throws of making jeans....Aghhh Jo x

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  9. Where did you get the purple fabric? It's amazing. Love the dress

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    1. It was from ebay...I think this shop http://www.ebay.co.uk/usr/bestf4brics

      Not sure if they have it anymore as it was ages ago, but they do have some great jersey!

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  10. This is one of my favourites of all your creations. Super cute
    SSB https://facebook.com/sassysewingbees

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  11. Your boyfriend is a classic. I hope you're keeping a list of all of his feedback. It would be a really funny collection!!

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  12. Gorgeous! I bought Violet as soon as it was released and am just waiting for a worthy fabric. :) You look amazing. :)

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    1. Thanks Andie! Have fun with your Violet!

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  13. Definitely not a nightie. It's gorgeous. I love the detail on the jersey and the contrast panels work really well. You should wear this with opaques and boots and you'll be a stunner in it. I made one last weekend too and I love it. It fits really well in the bodice. It's a cracker of a pattern.

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    1. Thanks Maeve...can you be my stylist please?

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  14. The detailing is quite pretty.

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  15. This is really cute on you! You look gorgeous in it!

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  16. Never listen to men's fashion advice! It looks fab, love the colour on you and the contrast fabric really makes it special, yet comfy too :-)

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  17. Fabulous! Not nighty-ish at all :) x

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