Hi! My name is Mimi. I am a 43 year old gal living in the Pacific Northwest. I have been sewing off and on since I was 13. I am self taught and am primarily a garment maker.
Pattern name: Vogue 8876 a Marcy Tilton design.
I love most of her designs. I find them flattering to all figure types. But also feel that she designs for us middle aged gals who love Avant Garde clothing. Think retired art teacher. 😉
Sizing: 8-16 and 16-24
What size did you make?
Once I pulled out the pattern and read the finished bust measurements I went ahead and cut my usual high bust size 14.
What are your measurements and body shape?
My measurements are 42-37-42. My body shape is an apple. Or according to vogue style guide, a rectangle. I have a large ribcage and slightly square shoulders. I normally cut a 14 or 16 to fit my high bust. I will make alterations from there. Usually a FBA, because I have a D cup size.
What adjustments did you make, and how long did they take?
I did not do an FBA. I just added an inch to the side seams only, as I was cutting it out. Once I had the front and back parts sewn up I pin fitted the side seams to check my fit. In the end I did not need all that extra room. I just used a 3/8 seam allowance on the side seams instead of the usual 5/8. But it’s always nice to have that fit insurance on the sides, just in case.
What did you like?
I like the shape of the dress. It can vary depending on your fabric choice – a bottom weight will be more structured, a voile would give it a softer look. You can even use a stable ponte knit with a bit of crosswise stretch. And it has pockets!
What will you change next time?
I have no changes to suggest. This pattern is flattering for all shapes. Pear, apple, slim, curvy.
What advice do you have for curvy sewists?
I am 5ft 4in. This dress is knee length on me. So tall gals, you may want to adjust length. Also, I used snap tape in lieu of a zipper or buttons.
Curvy rating (1 – 5 stars)
5 stars!
Your suggestion that this pattern appeals to retired art teachers is spot on — although I am not offically retired! I have the pattern, just waiting for my fabric to arrive! Will let you know how it comes out.
After looking at this dress on you I think I’ll buy the pattern!
Thanks a lot for this review..This dress is so classy and looking perfect on you..Love it!!
-Merrie K.
PetiteCareerGirl.com
I love your dress.
That’s so cute! Looks lovely on you.
Thanks for the review: LOVE the fabric you chose! I think there is a typo in the subject line, though: it should read Vogue 8876, not 8857 🙂
You look gorgeous in that dress! Thanks for the “apple” review, without it I never even would have looked at this dress but now….hmmm
Awwww! Thanks for the love! I do not have a blog. I should, but I am too lazy. I do post regular pictures on the CCC Flickr page. And review regularly on Pattern Review as VintageTempest. The envelope pictures of this pattern don’t do it justice.
Brava! This dress looks *fabulous* on you! I love it!
I’m so glad to see this review. I’ve had this pattern since it came out and have hesitated actually sewing it up. My measurements are very close to yours. I may have to keep an eye out for your makes! 🙂
Ramona
I don’t know how I missed this cute dress! I love the cut of the dress and how it flares out at the waist. Thank you for the review.
Thank you so much for the review! Do you have a blog? Beautiful make!!!
Thank you for your review! I have this pattern in my stash but have not yet brought it to the top for making. I have found in the past with other Marcy patterns that they can be a bit short waisted for me. Elaine