Jayne’s Roscoe dress!

Hi everyone and it’s so good to be back on the blog with my latest make.

When choosing my fabric, I wanted something that would be perfect for summer, light, floaty, cool and pretty. So,I chose ‘Pippa’ a stunning viscose fabric with the prettiest floral design.

The coral pink background colour was the first thing that drew me to it, it’s also on my colour palette, Warm Autumn, so I know it will compliment my skin tone. I love the cute ditsy sprigs of black and white, perfect for a summer dress.

To be honest, in the past I was not a great lover of wearing dresses, but I am starting to add more of them to my wardrobe and quite enjoying have a good range to choose from.

So, the pattern I chose was The Roscoe Dress/Blouse by True Bias. I have made the blouse loads of times, it’s one of my favourite blouse patterns. I do love the simple tie neck line and raglan sleeves with gathered cuffs. I have also made the dress before but I didn’t like it at all on me. I found the oversized design just ‘swamped’ me, so I didn’t wear it and, in the end, I donated it to charity.

In hindsight though I think I could have styled it better, perhaps added a belt to synch in the waist which would have changed the silhouette and overall look entirely!

So, with this in mind I wanted to make it again, have more of an open mind and see how it looked styled differently. I thought this fabric would be gorgeous for the maxi length version.

It is a super easy sewing pattern, no fastenings to worry about, and a fairly quick make too. There’s only a few pattern pieces to cut out and because it’s a raglan style sleeve, you don’t have to worry about inserting sleeves. Perfect beginner friendly pattern if you are wanting to try a dress but feel a little overwhelmed.

The fabric is lovely and drapey and stitched like a dream. I just made sure I used lots of pins when sewing to keep the pieces together, then finished the raw edges with my over locker.

I really love how it has turned out and how different it looks with a belt added. It is a super versatile dress which can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. I have simply styled it with pair of chunky white pumps and a very old brown leather belt for a casual look. 

I think it would also make a lovely ‘beach cover-up’, made in something cool and light (without the belt obviously), ideal for slipping over your bikini on holiday too!

The only thing I would change when I make it again is the length, I wish it was a little longer. More maxi length than midi length, so I will just remember to add a few more inches to the ruffle hem pieces next time.

I am so glad I gave this pattern a second chance and made this dress again, and cannot wait for the warmer weather to wear it. I fancy a lovely gingham fabric for my next version and definitely a new leather belt!

Thanks for reading and happy sewing!

Jayne

The Dressmakers Closet