I first laid eyes on a Zadie Dress prototype months before it was launched - it was a solid red version worn by Tilly herself and I was smitten! I loved how intricate and structured it looked despite being made in a stretchy fabric...finally a stable knit dress pattern to get my teeth into!
When I finally got my grubby hands on a copy, I was unsure of how an empire line would look on my big bust, so I decided to make a wearable muslin that wouldn't break the bank. So off to Leicester Market I trotted, leaving with a novelty stamp-print spandex/lycra and teal ponte. I'm happy to say that this turned out to be a very wearable muslin indeed!
When I finally got my grubby hands on a copy, I was unsure of how an empire line would look on my big bust, so I decided to make a wearable muslin that wouldn't break the bank. So off to Leicester Market I trotted, leaving with a novelty stamp-print spandex/lycra and teal ponte. I'm happy to say that this turned out to be a very wearable muslin indeed!
To better accommodate my shape, I added 5cm to the bodice and side panel pieces, which was a right faff, but worth it for a waist that sits at my natural waistline. As a consequence I had to hack about 8cm off the skirt length, but I'll know to shorten the pattern pieces for next time. Other than than I cut a straight size 4 and my only qualm is that the armhole feels a little tight. I'll definitely size up for that in future, especially if I make a Zadie with sleeves.
From the diagonal seams and in-seam pockets to the fitted bodice and pleated skirt, Zadie's one sophisticated lady. But she's high maintenance too. There are a fair few pattern pieces and lining up those diagonal points takes a lot of patience...and unpicking in my case. It's not exactly hard, there's just so many of them which is particularly challenging when you're a slap-dash stitcher who also happens to be a perfectionist!
Having said all this, Tilly's step-by-step instructions are spot on as usual and there's even a comprehensive sew-along on her blog.
From the diagonal seams and in-seam pockets to the fitted bodice and pleated skirt, Zadie's one sophisticated lady. But she's high maintenance too. There are a fair few pattern pieces and lining up those diagonal points takes a lot of patience...and unpicking in my case. It's not exactly hard, there's just so many of them which is particularly challenging when you're a slap-dash stitcher who also happens to be a perfectionist!
Having said all this, Tilly's step-by-step instructions are spot on as usual and there's even a comprehensive sew-along on her blog.
With endless colour-blocking and print-placement fun to be had, it's no wonder that Zadie has taken the sewing community by storm. I already see a solid red one (copycat) and a telephone-print one in my future, with plenty more contenders in my stash.
What do you think to Zadie?
I absolutely love your fabric choices - divine! Oh, and your shoes. And that little table behind you... Okay, obviously I love your taste!! Thanks for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteLooks pretty cool from over here! Jo x
ReplyDeleteDitto on the fabric choices and the shoes. That stamp printed one is gorgeous. Xx
ReplyDeleteLove the pattern, and your fabric choices are perfect for it. Plus it's always so satisfying when a wearable muslin turns out to be just that!
ReplyDeleteLove the teal with the stamps - this would be my favourite one so far ;o)
ReplyDeleteLike it , stamps are really good with the teal, this is a great dress -what a result for a toile! look forward to seeing the solid red one.
ReplyDeleteYour neckband topstitching is wonderful! I also love the skirt gathers/pleats/tucks. Are the pockets big enough for your phone?
ReplyDeleteI know it sounds a bit silly but hey... love the pockets! ;) Very interesting pattern
ReplyDeleteI wear dresses or skirts whenever humanly possible. It's both a comfort factor and I just like how it looks!And a velvet prom dress is the best choose in the daily life.
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