I’m channelling my inner Disney Princess Belle for this make! And the name of the pattern is definitely suited to this style of dress.
The belle woven dress is a sewing pattern from Style Arc Patterns and is a button through, midi length dress with shirred waist and sleeves. The bodice is gathered with a double yoke making it fitted but comfortable to wear. There are 12 buttons that I've spaced to my liking down the front of the dress, the top button I moved slighty to suit my prefered v-neck shape.
The fabric suggestions for this garment are rayon, crepe, or silk but I just had to make this up in my ‘Field Research’ fabric from the Forest Journal collection. The designs I chose for this fabric are vintage books and open books with flowers on toadstools sprouting from them. These whimsical inspired drawings are great for many different sewing projects as well as dressmaking. 'Forest Journal' is an organic cotton collection which will be in stores next week!
I made the dress in a straight size 12 with no amendments and it fits perfectly. The shirred back allow for ease around the waist area making it snug without feeling restrictive. I added a few extra rows of shirring around the sleeves for more volume and I left the hems of the sleeves open without elastic. I love how this adds more feminine elements to the dress and gives the sleeves slightly more shape. The gathered details on the bust and waist are flattering and give the illusion of a structured garment when in reality, this dress is very comfortable for everyday wear.
This cottagecore style is just what I was imagining when I decide to make a dress from this fabric. It's a make that I'm really proud of and it was a joy to sew.
Thank you for reading and happy sewing!
Kym x
This fabric collection with be launching on Create and Craft on Sunday 30th October.
Alternatively, you can pre order now via my website debbieshoresewing.com type in 'Forest journal' in the search bar. The collection will be in stores and good retailers from the 31st October.
Forest journal fabric - https://www.debbieshoresewing.com/?s=Forest+journal&post_type=product
Love the fabric and the dress. Also the gilet for your little girl. X