Off to the Emerald City - S2724 The Final Chapter

I couldn't help but think about the Wizard of Oz and the Emerald City as I posted the final chapter on the making of Simplicity 2724.

When I originally purchased this pattern, it was for me. I was planning to make the view with the white pleated bodice and black skirt. In February DD and I were shopping at Hancock's looking at the silk Dupioni and talking about how much we love jewel colors. The emerald green spoke to us this time. I wanted to make something special for my DD, because she is always patient when I'm sewing for others. As her "I want that sewn for me" list grows, I feel somewhat obligated to quench her desire for a version of this dress. She will wear this dress on Easter. The prom and graduation session is underway, and I'm glad I was able to work this in.

This is a great pattern to sew. There are so many options for dresses, skirts and blouses. This is on my favorites list for 2009. You should try it.

Pattern Description: Misses' Dress with skirt, bodice and sleeve variations.

Pattern Sizing: 4-20; I used a size 10 and made modifications. I'll talk about that later.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? It looked like the basic dress combination of the bodice and skirt (pink version). She wanted the 3/4 sleeves. My version is slightly longer, but it's looks like it.

Were the instructions easy to follow? The instructions were easy to follow. One suggestion: follow the instructions on the ruffle as stated. It makes the process easy. Take your time with making it. It will pay off in the long run. This version of the dress showcases it. I made a few changes in how I completed my version of the dress. All will be listed in the design/alteration section.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love this dress. It was a joy to make. I only have one dislike and that's the side zipper. The dress is semi-fitted in the bodice and you may have difficulty getting in and out of it. The pattern calls for a 14" zipper; I inserted a 22" one cutting it off at 18" to ease the burden of contorting the body to get in it.

Fabric Used: The queen of fabrics, silk (dupioni). I love sewing this fabric. It's easy to handle and sews beautifully.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made: There were are few alterations and design changes:

As you know, the Simplicity Project Runway patterns gives you the option to create your own design.

- DD and I started with the design of the pink dress on the envelope. She doesn't like sleeveless tops or dresses; so she decided that the 3/4 length sleeves would work for her.

- I pattern fit the bodice at size 10. I made a small full bust and broad shoulder alterations. Here are the pattern pieces laying flat atop the fabric.



- There is no lining for this dress. So I decided to underline it. The results give this dress a polished finish and a little more body to the fabric.



- For the stand collar, I under stitched the top edge and slip stitched it to the neckline of the dress.



- Inserted a longer zipper for easy access.

Back View

There are more pictures in my Flickr Album.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes DD has plans for more dresses from this pattern. I plan to try to make the ruffled bodice into a nice little peplum top.

Conclusion: This is a great pattern to try. It's not difficult to sew, but requires some patience with creating the ruffled bodice.