As a self-taught sewist it is embarrassing to admit that at the time of sewing this pattern I was yet to attempt a button hole and successfully complete a zip…my one and only attempt resulted in butchered fabric and two broken needles….but that’s a story for another day. Needless to say, since receiving a hand-me-down overlocker a few years ago (thanks to my late Nanna) and developing a love affair with knit fabric I am the first to admit that I have avoided woven fabric like the plague. I mean really, why would I want to bother with buttons or zips when I can just use a pattern and fabric with enough stretch that buttons and zips are not required…..right!?
Needless to say early last year when I was given the opportunity to test Pattern Emporium’s Field Of Dreams Strappy Dress & Top in (gasp) woven I was more than a little hesitant. However after looking at my cupboard of woven fabric which was bursting at the seams I decided it was time to pull up the big girl panties and take on the challenge…..and I don’t regret it for a minute.
These days I am topping the scales at the heaviest I have ever been (thanks #mumlife and #covidlockdowns) and often find it hard to find on trend patterns that cater to my size. I was very happy to see that the new Field of Dreams Strappy Dress & Top catered to all shapes and sizes (size 4-30).
The pattern is one of the most versatile I have come across in recent times and is suited to a casual walk in the park or dress it up and look fabulous for your next girls night out. With so many different tier lengths and options to choose from it’s like the choose your own adventure novel I used to read as a kid. Following the tutorial alone will result in 50 different options, when you add in the ‘get creative’ section the options truly are endless!
Features
Designed for woven fabrics the sizing of this pattern is generous catering for sizes 4-30. Some of the may features and ptions include:
- Fully lined bodice with a range of necklines including button front
- Straps – narrow, wide, adjustable, ruffle
- Top, Vest, Dess (over 10 options from mini – maxi and everything in between)
The Process
Like all Pattern Emporium Patterns I have attempted so far the tutorial is easy to follow with clear step by step instructions, pictures and handy hints to help you on your way. I loved that this pattern pushed me out of my comfort zone without exceeding my capabilities. Gatherings
Hint- make sure you pay attention to the instructions, I may have glossed over some of the steps and attached the straps the wrong way….not once but twice! When I re-read the tutorial I discovered the mistake was definitely mine as the instructions were quite clear. I then commenced a second make the next day and in my rush did the same thing again! Oops!
Sew #1 – V Neck Top
For my first attempt at this pattern I had 1m of this gorgeous blue alcohol ink print woven fabric in the cupboard that was calling to be made into a top. Bodice is the V-neck option featuring wide staps. I added a single tier which I had aimed to cut at the long (regular) length but due to a slip of the rotary blade ended up being slightly shorter. I then finished with fusible hemming tape.
Sew #2 – Tiered Dress (long)
Not sure what I love more, this version of the pattern or the fact that the fabric started out as a Doona Cover purchased on sale at Spotlight. I found that the polyester dooner cover was a little too see through for my liking so I lined the bodice and all tiers with some top pop (also from spotlight).
Overview
This beautiful pattern is a little like a choose your own adventure novel! With so many options and combinations included in the tutorial (50+) you could literally sew a different dress each day for weeks! From crop to maxi dress and everything in between this pattern is a must!
Happy Sewing,
Tara xx
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