Spring Fling with Supreme Neoprene

I'm so pleased with this project. What better way to start my spring wardrobe than with a supreme neoprene. I began my hunt for it after I saw a neoprene dress made by Ms. Erica B. Three weeks ago, I found it, the perfect, smooth neoprene.

At first glance I knew I had to have this audacious, attention getting print. I didn't need a swatch to know this fabric was a winner; good quality and sews like a dream. Too bad it's all sold out. Not to worry, Mood has a good selection of neoprene in stock.

Neoprene is on trend now. And Ms. Cookie Lyon (Taraji P. Henson) has a weekly showing of body hugging dresses that are a great source of inspiration. Her "standout" dresses inspired me to pair this fabulous fabric with Simplicity 1314 modified. Of course, I made several modifications to get the fit right for me.

It is a princess seamed dress with some center front and back details. The actual pattern is more a-line than straight. I made view C with the flange used for view D. Also included in the envelope are pants (view A) and sleeved dress (view B). It comes in sizes 6 to 22. I used size 16 with lots of modifications.

My dress is slightly different because of the changes I made. I was going for a slim dress instead of an a-line one. Other than that the dress looks like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope. The instructions were simple and easy to follow.

This was a good choice for the style of dress I had in mind. Princess seams work well with my body shape. And it is easy to make the pattern adjustments. I also like the curve of the dress panels. They add interest to the dress and can be used to create the illusion of a curvier body with a small waist. For my dress though, it's hard to see those details. Finally, I like the way this dress goes together. No sticky points.

I only had one dislike regarding the construction, and it was due to the thickness of the fabric. Where the flange and the armhole facing are finished, It was hard to get a polished finish. So instead of following step 25 I tacked down the facing by hand. The stitching does not show through to the right side of the fabric. I preferred this finishing to the recommended technique.

My usual fit adjustments:
 - FBA - Swayback
 - Prominent Shoulder Blades
 - Inch or two to length of skirt

After making these adjustments. The dress was too large everywhere, even in the bust area. I started with size 16, but the finished dress was between sizes 14 at the neckline and shoulders; 14/16 at bust; 14 waist and hips(with bust adjustment); and 12/10 below the hips. After all of these changes, I will probably use the pattern at least one more time.

I think this pattern is definitely worth a try. I like the design lines and it's not difficult to make. It's a good pattern for a princess seamed sloper dress.

This is my first dress for Spring 2015. I'm so glad that spring is on it's way. Neoprene is a great fabric to wear during this transitional period. The pattern; easy and sew up quickly.

That's all for now.  Happy Sewing!
C