True Bias Southport X 2

With all of this summery weather we have been having I have been feeling that my wardrobe is lacking in summer dresses. I bought the Southport dress pattern when it was on offer after it was released and at the time I thought 'why am I buying a dress pattern, I should be buying work related patterns' but I am so glad I did!! For anyone who doesn't know it is a loose fitting summer dress in both short and maxi versions, it uses bias binding to finish off the neckline and armholes, and has a front button placket on the bodice.

  For my first version I used a duvet cover I found in a charity shop, I only made it a week ago but have already worn it several times! I made a straight size 14, it is supposed to be loose fitting and drapey but even after taking it in an extra 1/2 inch it is still a little too loose. I also wanted the back to be lower than the pattern so I just traced off the front neckline onto the back pattern piece. Unfortunately I think this makes it fall off my sloping shoulders!! I also added two inches to the length. I decided not to add the buttons because I really dislike buttons of any kind and they are not necessary as the dress slips on and off easily without them, I cut the front bodice piece on the fold. Despite the issues it is so comfie and I think looks OK?! Anyway I loved it an knew I wanted to make another in 'good' fabric from my stash ASAP!

I used cord for the drawstring, I think it provides a good contrast.

Beware the dipped back with sloping shoulders!!

 For my 'good' version I had this amazing art gallery fabric I bough on sale from Dragonfly Fabrics ages ago that I thought would be perfect. The cotton is just divine to sew with - I can see how spending a little more on your fabric is worth while! Again I added two inches to the skirt length, I cut a size 12 bodice and graded out to a size 14 on the skirt. I added 1cm to the front neck and cut the back a little higher than on my first version. My overlocker is currently being repaired (and I am deciding which child I am going to have to sell to pay for it!) so I used french seams on the bodice and because I didn't know how to finish skirt seams with pockets I just used bias binding to finish off all the raw edges. How do you finish off your seams if you don't have or didn't want to use an overlocker?

I just LOVE the pockets!!

The fabric is just so light and cool!

Being unwittingly photo bombed by my very cheeky middle child!

And again!

This is my perfect summer dress pattern!!!!

I've seen some really wonderful versions out there, both short and maxi - Has anyone else found their perfect summer dress pattern?

   Thanks for stopping by!

              Su