Pattern name: Sewaholic Cambie 1202
Sizing: 0-16
What size did you make? I graded this pattern up to about a size 22.
What are your measurements and body shape? My measurements are: 48-41-52 and as I have a pear-ish shape and Sewaholic patterns are made for pear-shaped gals, it was pretty much a straight up grading. I used the same method as this tutorial.
What adjustments did you make, and how long did they take? I adjusted the cap sleeves as I like the bodice on this dress to be up a little higher. That alteration took a little more time (perhaps an hour) as the Cambie is fully lined, but the sleeves are the last thing you attach and they are gathered at the ends, so it’s very workable for a good fit.
What did you like? I love the fitted bodice and the gathered skirt. The skirt does not have as many gathers in the front as as in the back, so it doesn’t give you a pregnant look like some other gathered skirts can. I also like how it’s fully lined with an invisible zipper, so you could possibly make this a reversible dress.
What will you change next time? I may give myself a wee bit more room in the fitted bodice for a little looser fit. When it gets hot here, this dress is a bit uncomfortable.
What advice do you have for curvy sewists? This pattern takes some work if you are above the size range, but it is totally worth it! If you are a pear shape — even better!! If you have a full bust, it looks like there will be a bit more work with the alterations, but with the cap sleeves, you can get a good fit. I think this is a dress that looks awesome on every body type. It’s such a flattering shape whether you choose the slim or full skirt.
Curvy rating (1 – 5) — 4 (I only give it a 4 rating as this pattern does not come in much of a plus size range.)
Sewaholic Cambie in Hawaiian print cotton broadcloth
This looks great! You look beautiful and the dress is perfect! I’m not sure if i qualify as curvy but I am pregnant and am having a very hard time trying to find dresses with the waist line high enough for my belly. This is my 6th child so I seem to be pregnant more than not lately.. and when I’m not pregnant I still like the higher waist as it hides my post preg belly better! I love all the dresses Ive seen from you so far but they still look a little too low waisted for my comfort.
Thanks for sharing this, as I suspected, we are very similar in size/measurements. I’ve been really wanting to tackle the cambie but I have been scared of the alterations required. This give me a bit more confidence to try it out!
That dress is just gorgeous! I have a Cambie pattern waiting to be graded up – I am also a size 22 – the tutorial you have provided is great! Thanks so much
I have also graded up the Sewaholic Cambie dress, and have now made two versions. I love this dress! I am about to make a third version. I didn’t use the gathered skirt, but the a-line instead. The compliments I get certainly made the extra work, worth it.