Spring is finally emerging in Portland so I immediately need to make something summery! This dress is the spring 2017 pattern from Gretchen Hirsch (Butterick 6453) and she’s currently doing a sew-a-long for it.

I bought 4 yards of Cotton + Steel 1″ Checkers gingham in aqua to make it originally. But then I decided I wanted to make it in View B first and I dug out this neat brocade type fabric I got from Joann’s ages ago.

I cut out my standard Big 4 size (18) and got to doing my flat pattern adjustments before cutting it out. It’s a pretty straightforward sew with the addition of the lapped zipper.  I met Gretchen at Modern Domestic last month and she said she prefers doing lapped zippers because they are stronger than an invisible zipper and you don’t need an exact color match.

Flat Pattern adjustments to the front pieces

Modifications:

• 3″ FBA
• Remove 1/2″ from princess seam under bust
• 3/4″ broad back adjustment
• Raised armholes 1″ (for bra coverage)
• Added 1/4″ to strap width (to 5/8″)
• Removed 2″ from bottom before hemming
• 1″ full abdomen adjustment

Future Adjustments:

• Shorten bodice by 1″
• Move rear strap extensions in toward center