For a while now, I’ve debated whether or not to attempt to make a twist dress. I love the idea of the twist detail, but I was weary that having all that fabric in my tummy area will only make my abdomen look much bigger than it actually is. (Just in case you were wondering, yes, like many women, I am a little apprehensive about my tummy).

Given that Ellie and Mac Sewing Patterns* and YouTube sewalongs for all their patterns, I thought I’d go for their Heart and Soul Twist Dress & Top pattern*. The main reason I chose this pattern was that I could not see in my mind how the twist was constructed and as a visual learner, seeing someone else do it was the easiest way to learn.

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Sewing Summary:

Pattern: Heart and Soul Twist Dress & Top pattern* a classic pattern that features a front twist with a V-neck or Scoop Neckline, multiple sleeve options: short, 3/4, Long, Long Angel Sleeves, Short Angel Sleeves, two length options as top or dress.

Difficulty: advanced beginner

Sizing: US  XXS – 6XL, the pattern is drafted for the height of 5’5”/165.10 cm. The instructions include steps for adjusting the pattern for height differences if needed.

Fabric: 2m animal print stretch scuba which I bought in the big clearance sale at my local Abakhan store at the end of last year so it was a bargain.

Notions: none

Modifications: I cut a medium and made the dress version with a scooped neckline and long sleeves. I added 2.5 cm (1″) to the side seam on the bodice. I used the instructions for the front bodice. In addition to this, I shortened the sleeves by 4 cm (1 5/8″) and used a 2 cm ( 7/8″) hem allowance instead of the 1.2cm (1/2″). I used a neckband instead of facing to finish the neckline.

Instructions: The pattern is aimed at advanced beginners so the instructions do not give all the steps needed for other adjustments, but there are links to blog posts or Youtube videos that

Fit: it was ok, much better than what I expected and the tummy area does not look as big as I thought it would.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?: Yes.

Watch out for: pay attention to the instructions/video that demonstrates the construction of the front twist. In my opinion, this is the most difficult part of the pattern.

Make Again?: Yes. I’ve got plans to make the top version as well with a V-neck.

If like me you do not like facings on stretch/knitted fabric garments and which to replace the facings on this pattern, I have a short tutorial on how to create a pattern piece for the neckband here.

I am not a fan of the Angel sleeves, so that part of the patterns is lost on me. They look cute, but for me, they are not suitable for layering.