Looks like this year I am on a Vogue streak. Quite a few of the projects I’ve been making lately, the last 3 or 4 have included a Vogue Sewing Pattern*. As a Minerva Brand Ambassador*, recently, when I was asked to test this lovely Minerva Exclusive Bubble Shoal Sweater Knit Stretch Fabric*, the only pattern in my stash that I felt was the best match was a Vogue Sewing Pattern*.

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Although I had other projects that needed to take priority, this project jumped the queue as I wanted to start using my new to me cover-locker I purchased about a month or so ago. After some Tetris with the pattern pieces, I managed to cut all the pieces out of my 3 m of fabric.

For more information about my thoughts on working with this fabric, please check out my post on Minerva’s website here*.

Sewing Summary:

Pattern: V8825 Very Easy Vogue Patterns*: ‘Pullover tunic or dress has front extending into back collar, fitted, pleated, surplice bodice front, raised empire waist, tie ends, two-piece blouson sleeves with barrel cuffs, and stitched hem. Fitted, straight-leg pants (below waist) have elastic waist.’

Sizing: US/UK 8-10-12-14-16 and 16-18-20-22-24

Fabric: 3 m Minerva Exclusive Bubble Shoal Sweater Knit Stretch Fabric* for view B (dress)

Notions: none for the dress but trousers require elastic

Modifications: After reading a couple of reviews for this pattern, I cut a size 14 and made the following modifications: shortened the sleeve length by 7.5 cm, cut the cuff to size 12, and shortened it by 2 cm. Also, I shortened the skirt by 7.5 cm to try to bring the hem at knee level rather than past it (to fit my petite figure. I am 5ft2 or 1.57 m tall) and completed a 1.5 cm sway back to account for my short back. As many said the tie is too long, I cut it to size 10 and took off 4 cm to be able to cut the fabric in one piece on the gross grain.

Instructions: I only looked at the diagrams to confirm the order of construction and checked the seam and hem allowances.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?: Yes and No. On the model on the pattern envelope, the hem of the dress is below the knee level. As I am not that slim and tall a hem below the knees makes me much shorter, so I opted to raise the hem to get it at knee level. Also,

Watch out for: The ties are very long. Even after I shortened them, they feel too long. Keep in mind that the pattern does not give the finished garment measurements. It also only gives the fabric requirements for a 150 cm wide. So if your fabric is not that wide you will need a lot more fabric for this dress.

Make Again?: Yes, I like the simplicity of the design and also want the tunic version of the pattern. I’ll make that in a less heavy fabric such as viscose jersey.