My latest new pattern is the Lewis dress and top. This started life in response to the Alice dress that I created for the Project run and play collaboration about this time last year. During the testing process a few of the testers said they would love it in ladies sizes. The response I got from publishing the Alice pattern was the same. So I added it to my list to create. I wanted to offer something slightly different to the kids style, I liked the idea of adding buttons. I played around with the style to get the cut right and ended up with a pattern that has quite a few options.
Lewis dress
Both dress and top versions feature princess seam lines in the front and back bodice. The dress is semi-fitted skimming bust,waist and hips with an A-line knee length skirt. Pockets are built into the side panel in the same way as the Alice dress. The Lewis pattern includes a choice of sleeves and optional frills. Size range 6-22.
I’ve rated the pattern a level 3 which I consider an intermediate sewer. During the testing process the testers verified this. I would say the trickiest parts of the pattern are the buttonholes and set in sleeve. However fitting is often easier with princess seams. The simplest variation would probably be the zip back top with the volume sleeve.
Both the Lewis dress and top styles can be finished with a button through front or a zip back. Buttons are a great way to add extra detail with contrast colours and styles. This version is made in chambray cotton finished with contrast white buttons. I finished the edge of the frill with white thread too. The Lewis dress can easily translate for cooler weather in fabrics like needle cord and flannel, styled with thick tights and boots.
All styles can be made with or without frills. The pattern includes a narrow frill or a deeper frill which can be used for the top or the dress. This version is made in a lightweight denim fabric and finished with silver buttons.
By following the correct cutting line on the pattern you can create a plain front version that fastens with a zip at the back avoiding buttons all together. This version is made in craft weight cotton with the narrower frill.
Lewis top
The Lewis top has the same overall fit. Like the dress it can be made with or without the frills and with button front or zip back. The sleeve options include a slim 3/4 sleeve or a volume 3/4 sleeve. The volume sleeve has an elasticated hem. This top is made in viscose fabric with the wider frill and volume sleeve.
A crisper fabric like this rustic cotton gives the frills more body while fabrics like viscose give a softer appearance.
The Lewis top has a shaped shirt tail hem line.
I hope you enjoy the new pattern. Look out for tutorials on fitting and making coming soon to my youtube channel.
