The Friday Pattern Co. Wilder Gown has been popping up all over social media since it debuted a few months ago. It is a very flowy silhouette that features dress and blouse lengths, multiple skirt tiers, raglan sleeves, and a fun neck tie detail. There are a lot of possible combinations for this pattern and we’ve seen some amazing versions on Friday Pattern Company’s Instagram. We thought it would be a great pattern to visualize on different bodies.This pattern comes in sizes XS to 4X, up to a 54 inch, 47 inch waist, and 57 inch hip.
Andie
Measurements: 52 inch bust, 48 inch waist, 56 inch hip
Body Shape: My own
Pattern Size Used: 3XL
Alterations: No modifications.
Fabric: A sheer poly crepe with dots.
Fit: The seam for the raglan sleeve cuts across my bust. As you can see in the picture above, the sleeve also starts there, too. This makes it difficult to raise my arms or wear a bag without driving up the waistline of the dress. This kept happening when I wore it and it was annoying. The bust is drafted for a B cup so this could be solved with an FBA and a smaller size. However, the bust, the sleeves, the back all fit great except for the issue of where that seam lies.
Changes for future versions: Instead of doing an FBA, because the fit is what I want elsewhere, I am going to modify it so that the raglan seam sits in a more comfortable place. Ultimately, this will achieve what an FBA would but with an FBA and smaller size I would also need to do a bunch of other modifications as well.
Final thoughts: This dress is here for the drama! I felt like I was going to a festival in the woods and ready to dance in a circle of stones and go back in time (Outlander reference). Especially in the bright yellow, the dress got a lot of looks. I think next time I will be making the less dramatic top version or shortening the skirt so it doesn’t look as formal. But it does look amazing with a felt flower crown!
Sierra
Measurements: 54” bust, 45” waist, 55.5” hips, 5’7” height
Body shape: Hourglass-ish
Pattern size used: I used a 3X based on my waist and hip measurements. I intended on doing a full bust adjustment (FBA) but ran out of time. I was making this for an event and decided to go ahead with the pattern as drafted.
Alterations: I didn’t make any alterations for this version. I made the pattern with the short sleeves and full length dress option.
Fabric: I used a hot pink linen blend from The Sewing Studio. I believe it is a rayon and linen blend. The color is vibrant and has a bit of drape.
Fit: I am really pleased with the fit. The sleeves are a great length and I can move comfortably. I also really like the length of the dress. I probably should have done the FBA to give me some more room in the bust. The first tier starts a little high for me, and I am wondering if that would be fixed with a FBA.
Changes for future versions: I will take the time to do the FBA for my next version. I will also start the first gathered tier a bit lower so that it sits under my bust. I would love to make the blouse version and try some color blocking as well.
Final thoughts: I really enjoyed making this pattern. I wore it to my parents’ 40th wedding anniversary and was able to dance in it all night. My sister even made earrings to complement the dress. I felt confident and free wearing this dress. I already have plans for several versions – a sheer full length dress, burgundy flowing tunic, and colorful long sleeved blouse.
