Earlier this week I saw a phenomenal review by Justine at Sew Country Chick for the Hazel dress by Colette Patterns, and it immediately put a fire under my butt. I have had my eye on Colette Patterns for a while now, and something about seeing Justine’s version just gave me the kick I needed to try one out.
Justine’s review was so all encompassing, that I reached out to her to get some of her personal thoughts on Colette and how they fit her body – as well as other recommendations for different adult pattern companies. Seeing as how I don’t sew much for myself, any pointers I get are always greatly appreciated!
Well, after Justine’s glowing review and her response to my e-mail about Colette, and then looking in my closet and seeing my desperate need for sundresses, I immediately got to work.
After finding Amy Butler’s Gypsy Cobalt fabric from her Lark Collection sitting in my fabric pile, just waiting for the perfect sewing project to come along, I had what I needed to get going.
At first it seemed like a really busy print for an entire dress, but it just seemed to work. The way the wavy lines worked in a vertical manner, gave the dress a very slimming look.
You cant tell in these pictures, but my accent fabric is actually a very small navy and white polka dot (I was out of Kona blue fabric), but I am now thankful for this because I think it gave the dress an extra bit of character that I might not have given it myself.
I will definitely be making this dress again. I did need to make a few alterations to the pattern pieces to get it to fit me flawlessly. But that is common across the board with women’s patterns – as women are generally not one size fits all. But the changes were so super simple, that all I really had to do was nip /tuck some of the back seams. It also calls for a 22″ zipper, not quite sure why. I used a 12-14″ and it was certainly more than long enough.
Thanks again Justine for sharing your version, as it totally inspired me to make this – and I will definitely buy from Colette again. They were so easy to work with, it was just fantastic.
I think my next attempt at this dress will be for a fuller, more twirly skirt. We shall see.
Thanks so much for stopping by, and until next time…
Happy Sewing!
Love it!! I’ve had my eye on this pattern for awhile now too.
I love the way this turned out and what a great fabric choice! Yes, Justine is the girl to ask (I love her blog too!) and how cool that her post inspired you. This is going to be a must do for me some day soon!
Janelle
Emmaline Bags & Sewing Patterns
Wow that’s gorgeous! Pinning that pattern for later!
Que hermoso modelo de vestido!
I have a couple of Colette patterns and I like them a lot. One tip I learned last summer when I took an e-course on sewing adult clothing… when selecting the size to make, look at the finished garment measurements. I typically like to wear my clothing “fitted” so I don’t need 3-6 inches of ease! This has worked every time I have sewn myself a garment. 😀
Don’t you look svelte! Great job.
What a lovely dress! I’ve been eyeing that pattern but it’s the possibility of alterations that has made me hesitate.
That is a truly lovely combination; you did a great job.
Colette is my FAV pattern company for ME! Glad you discovered it! Each one is great! 🙂
Oh Jessica I love it!!!!!! 🙂
Love the shape of the dress and the fabric is gorgeous!
Hi Jess! I love this dress on you! Especially the contrasting side panels! I’m so happy my review was helpful to you and thank you for mentioning me. As moms we spend so much time sewing and doing things for others, we need to remember to treat ourselves to some handmade goodness too!
Beautiful, Jessica!