Kia ora from a not quite “Spring like” Auckland. I’m longing for warmer weather and a chance to transform all the lovely linen and cotton in my stash into pretty tops and dresses. I feel like I’ve lived in boots and tights for months now, my sandals are sitting quietly in my wardrobe, teasing me every time I root around for yet another pair of socks!
So when Sew Me Something offered to send me their latest pattern to review I was intrigued. I’m always trying to think of ways to make my clothes work over all of Auckland’s reasonably temperate seasons, and the combination of sleeves, and easy fit and length made me think this would be another winner. Even if I can’t quite lose the merino and boots just yet.
Emelia is an easy fit dress with a feature pleat detail at the front, a yoke with another pleat at the back, tie sleeves and the option of a collar to make it slightly more formal.
Pattern name: Emelia dress by https://sewmesomething.co.uk/
Size range (with measurements): Sew Me Something have just extended their size range from 8-26 which is 32/26/35 to 49.5/43/52.5 (82/68/90 to 125/111/133). They are currently updating their older patterns to the new size range.
What size did you make? I made the 20 which is 43/37/46. My measurements are actually 44/40/50, and it fits a treat. Yes, there is plenty of ease in this pattern. I may even size down for a warm weather version.
What are your measurements, height, and body type? I’m 5.5 “ (166 cm), and am all about the curves, full bust (16DD), a wee tum & generous hips & thighs (I’m less Apple, more Brie…?). I also have very generous biceps, so often require a Full Bicep Adjustment.
What adjustments did you make and how long did they take? None, I made this one straight out of the packet. Happily the sleeve is lovely & roomy, so no Bicep adjustment required!
What fabric did you use? I used a gorgeous soft mid weight linen from https://thefabricstoreonline.com/collections/linen .
What was the construction process like? Did the instructions make sense to you? The instructions are great, easy to follow and thorough. Jules is a sewing teacher and her instructions and illustrations are very clear. I thought the collar and pleat detail at the front would be tricky, but honestly if you make sure you mark you fabric as per the pattern you will be fine. In the past I’ve been VERY cavalier about accurate pattern markings but it really pays off for this pattern, the collar and pleat matched up perfectly with no drama.
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’s generous without being ridiculously loose, skimming over my curves really nicely. I love the back gather and front pleat detail, simple but just that little bit different. I made the collar version as I wanted something slightly smarter to wear to work, but I can see a collarless version for summer. Those sleeves! The tie detail is really cute, and not at all difficult to achieve. Because of the easy fit of the dress I like the tie detail gathering in the sleeves for a slimmer silhouette, while still being comfortable to wear. With boots & tights this is a perfect work outfit for a chilly Auckland winter., but will also be really cute with sneakers and a little denim jacket for Spring (it’s going to arrive soon, I know it!)
Will you make the pattern again? If so, what fit or design changes will you make? I will definitely make this one again, first up I’m planning a double gauze version to wear over jeans. I’d like to play around with the top stitching on the front pleat too. For summer, if I’m not wearing a layer underneath I’d probably size down, and maybe add an inch or so to the length.
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? Um, follow the pattern! Taking the time to transfer the dots and marks from the pattern onto your fabric will really make life easier. But the instructions are good, I do think a beginner could definitely nail this one.
My pattern rating:
Size Range (1-5) 3.5 Based on our size range guidelines. Do check the final garment measurement, there is a lot of ease in this pattern range
Instructions (1-5) 5 Excellent, concise & easy to follow. The illustrations are nice & clear.
Construction Process (1-5) 5 came together really well, especially trickier details like the collar & pleats.
Final Fit (1-5) 5 Happy with the fit, comfortable without being enormous, and the sleeves are spot on.
Overall Rating (1-5) + 4.5, I can definitely see more of Emelia in my wardrobe.
If you like the look of this pattern you may also like the Helena, which I previously reviewed for the CSC, https://curvysewingcollective.com/pattern-review-helena-dress-by-sew-me-something/
Can you ever have too many linen dresses in your wardrobe??
Kristina x
That is absolutely adorable on you, and I have a piece of linen that is just crying out to be this!! Running to buy it now 🙂
Thanks Kerry, happy sewing! x
Sorry, slightly off topic – while I do love the pattern and the way you’ve put it together I absolutely *LOVE* your boots! May I ask the brand/where you got them?
Hi Julia, of course, my boots are from a UK company called Duo , they make knee high boots with a variable calf width up to 50 cm/33 inces (also wide fitting feet) The quality is excellent , those boots are over four years old & still in great shape. (actually I like the style so much I brought the same ones in brown ) http://www.duoboots.com
(for the record I have no connection with the company other than being a longstanding customer!)
You are awesome! Thanks so much for sharing 🙌🏼
No worries! x
The front pleat top-stitching…do you think the pattern might work if the top-stitching formed a rectangle so the pleat opening was positioned towards the bottom of the bust rather than on or above the bust?
Hi, I don’t see why not , you would need to lengthen the front V to make it deeper , but I don’t see why that wouldn’t work? You’ve got me thinking now…!:)
You look adorable, Kristina. I love the pattern and I’m thinking I need it in my collection…
Thanks Mary, it’s a good one 🙂
I liked but think you could go 1 size smaller plus not so stiff of fab. something more drapey. Might try that pattern. Does it have long sleeves also.
Hi Renee, thanks for your feedback, I do think a rayon would be lovely, something bright for Spring! No long sleeves with the pattern, although I don’t think they would be difficult to lengthen.