Pattern Review: Hippolyta Dress By Sew Me Something

Hey CSC, Martha from @GariChild here to review the Hippolyta Dress by Sew Me Something.  I have a looooong sewing queue of projects but when Kristina from Plum Kitchen posted her version on the Curvy Sew Collective  Facebook Group, I literally stopped what I was doing, purchased the pattern and cleared my sewing table because I had to have this dress in my wardrobe.  I can’t be the only one guilty of such behavior #instantgratification So imagine my surprise to find out that this dress pattern was designed by a company unfamiliar to me.  How have I missed this one?!?!  Looks like they started out with UK size ranging from 8 to 22 and there are a couple pieces that have been expanded to include up to UK size 26 like the Hippolyta Dress.

The Hippolyta Dress has batwing sleeves designed for comfort and ease, but the strategically placed seams provide a fun detail and hidden pockets! The pockets pretty much sold me on the design. The collar and turned back cuffs on three quarter length sleeves was more of a bonus in the package that speaks to my spirit.

Size Range: Sizes UK 8 to 26

Bust: The pattern ranges from 82 cm/32 inches to 125 cm/49 inches with a generous over-sized fit with finished garment measurements ranging from 167 cm/65 inches to 210 cm/82 inches.

My measurements:

Measurements: 49/46/58
Body Shape: Pear-ish
Height: 5’7
Bra size: 44DDD

What size did you make? I made a size 26 with no alterations and can probably go down a size or 2 in the bust and grade back to this size 26 because I love the ease around my hips.

Fabric: Seersucker fabric purchased from Fabric Mart.  Choose to do this fun color combo to better showcase the fun details of the design.

 What was the construction process like? Did the instructions make sense to you?

I was actually surprised at how the dress comes together relatively easy.  The instructions are so clear and easy to follow.  I can admit that the collar made me nervous because I feel that I have not mastered a good collar yet but I followed some tips from my Instagram sew sisters and basted the collar before using my sewing machine and this is pretty much the best collar I have ever installed on a garment. #sewproud

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How did you like the pattern’s fit? Do you think that the design works well for your body shape?

I absolutely looooooooooooove this dress and it fits amazing!  Its oversized but doesn’t feel overwhelming on my plus some body.  The design lines make this a good pattern to play with different color combos or keep it simple with one color choice.  

Will you make this pattern again? If so, what fit or design changes will you make?

I will definitely make this again! Both the construction and style make it an easy sew.  Like I stated above, I might go down a size at the bust to see how that affects the fit but in all reality, I am not in a rush to change anything as it does look amazing at the bust.  The little kicks to the design details like the back loop are just too cute.

Do you have any advice on this pattern for other curvy sewers? Are there any resources or materials that helped you sew this piece up?

Pattern Rating (1-5):

Size range: 4
Instructions: 5
Construction process: 5
Final fit: 5
Overall rating:  4.9

I consider this pattern a great curvy sew for my intermediate/ambitious beginners.  Overall, I personally love the way the dress looks on me and plan to make another one in a fun print.

Until Next time, GariChild