Every sewer needs that go-to pattern that always comes through. The pattern you pull out when you know you’ve got a few hours to sew and want something quick and comfortable and simple. For me, this is the Staple Dress by April Rhodes.
A year or two ago I saw this pattern EVERYWHERE on the blogosphere. Everywhere that is, but not on anyone that looked like me! I was hesitant to purchase it given I hadn’t seen anyone even remotely curvy attempting it, but I wanted to see what all of the hoopla was about and I gave it a shot. I am so glad I did!
I’ve sewn up a handful of these over the past year and, although the style is basic and simple, each of them looks different depending on the fabric weight and style. I have made a drop hem version in a jersey fabric (here), a shortened straight hem version in voile (here) and in crepe de chine (here), a hacked top version (here) and now for this review another drop hem version. I love them all and wanted to share this pattern with those of you looking for an easy and simple dress/top that really lets the fabric and the curves of your body speak for themselves. I love throwing one on with a pair of slim pants or leggings and a great pair of boots and maybe a cardigan and running out the door. Now that the snow has finally melted around these parts, I may even show my legs off in one, as well!
- Pattern name
- Staple Dress by April Rhodes
- Size range (with measurements)
- XS (33-26-36)-XXL (46-39-49)
- What size did you make?
- XXL
- What are your measurements, height, and body type?
- 5’8”, 50-45-52, bra size 40DD I am not sure how great I was at taking my measurements, but according to these numbers I am a bit above their stated size but the dresses fit great
- What adjustments did you make and how long did they take?
- None
- What was the construction process like? Did the instructions make sense to you?
- Super simple construction. Instructions were easy and straight forward. Pockets and bias trim are time consuming but easy to do. If you omit the pockets you could do French seams not only on the shoulders, but sides as well. (Editor’s Note: Here’s a great tutorial on adding pockets to French seams, if you’d like to keep both!) Shirring may be a challenge for some, but I have also made a few versions without it, instead using ¼ inch elastic inside, when my machine was acting rebellious. This is the first pattern I’ve used with interior pockets and it was a challenge to me the first few times, but I absolutely love that it pushed me past my fear of adding pockets- now I want to add pockets to everything!
- How do you like the pattern’s fit? Do you think the design works well for your particular body shape?
- I love the fit! It is a very simple silhouette, which I like. The shirring allows you to gather the fabric where it is most flattering for your body. Personally I like it with the shirring and also without; particularly if the pattern is shortened to a blouse or tunic length. I have a large chest, and carry weight in my waist and I think this style is flattering.
- Will you make the pattern again? If so, what fit or design changes will you make?
- I have already made several versions of this; with the drop hem, with a straight hem and also hacked to be a top. I will make another for sure!
- Do you have any advice on this pattern for other curvy sewers? Are there any resources (blog posts, fitting books, tutorials) that helped you sew this piece up?
- My advice would be to use a lightweight fabric to get the best drape. I made the mistake of using a light denim for my muslin the first time and– Yikes! –not so flattering! If you go by the directions and do the shirring, it helps to try on the dress and mark the best spot for you to gather. Everyone’s body is different, after all, and curvy sewers may especially want to choose a different spot for the gathers. Personally, I like an empire-look with this dress, placing the shirring below my bust line.
Size Range (1-5) 3, Sizing goes up to XXL, which is great and fits me very well. I would think this would be super easy to grade up, as well, since there are only 2 pattern pieces.
Instructions (1-5) 5, easy to understand for even a beginner.
Construction Process (1-5) 4. I would love to use French seams not only in the shoulders, but throughout. Also, the bias tape around the neckhole and arms; and the shirring may be intimidating for a beginner but does give a nice finish.
Fab dress. Love the fabric and style. Great work.
I really love the look of this dress! I am new to dressmaking but have ordered this pattern today as you look so fab I want to give it a go! Thanks so much for the post.
Real cute! I think I have this pattern. Now I have another in my to do pile. 😉
Looks lovely! Never thought about this one. Thanks for the inspiration.
Thanks so much for the inspiration – it looks fantastic on you! I’m going to go give it another try!
I did need to do a large bicep adjustment – for this dress, it meant increasing the sleeve opening and the facing.
Thanks so much for the photos and detailed info on your variations of this pattern. You’ve inspired me to go get this pattern. I’m new to making anything but simple, elastic waist skirts and am trying to avoid buying too many single use patterns. It’s really helpful to see how great all yours turned out in the different fabrics and hear how much use you get out of them.
I love the dress and how great it looks on you. I wonderful I could make one as nice as yours!
I love your version of this dress, it looks great on you.
The thing that stops me cold on this pattern is I don’t see a tech drawing of it anywhere, and I need to see those lines before I buy a pattern, particularly for $15 for a PDF.
thanks everyone! I am in love with the simplicity of this pattern and how easy it goes together. I highly recommend it. I just wish the weather was better when I shot the pics so I could’ve gotten better views outside and not in my Library office!
Really cute dress! I love the style and the pockets.
gotta love a pocket, they are my favorite part of the dress
Love this review! Thanks!! I have this pattern and have never made it or really even considered making it. I have changed my mind based on your review.
you need to try it! I have even shortened it to a top as well (and omitted the shirring), it is very versatile.
It’s so good isn’t it?! I’ve made a couple and I am planning my third one, this time with a drop hem. I like how different it looks according to how many rows of shirring you can do, and also that you can move the shirring to flatter your figure. It’s great for showing off interesting fabric too. I love all your versions!
thanks! I never thought I’d be into a dropped hem, or mullet dress as some call it but I really enjoy it in this pattern when using a light and flowy fabric like this.
Ha brilliant, a mullet dress!
What a lovely dress and it looks amazing on you Jewel! I was looking for a nice and versatile pattern and I think I’ve found it thanks to you, thank you so much!
thanks! I hope you get your hands on a pattern and give it a try
I love this dress on you, Jewel! I have actually made up this pattern once and didn’t quite like where the intended gathers fell on me. However, I absolutely love the Empire look you’ve gotten with this. It’s so chic and beautiful on you! I may have to revisit this dress, now. 😀
thanks Mary! The empire look I gave it makes it so comfortable as well.