How to be your own Sewist? #7 Orchard’s Dress

Aug 4, 2021

By Birds of Fabriclore

The joy of sewing is in going on to one pattern after another, sky is the limit really! There's so much to learn, create and then flaunt your creations. 😉

For this post, I would like to introduce you to a new pattern designer, Vivian Shao Chen. Vivian is relatively new to independent pattern designer with some beautiful and simple lines in all her work.

The Pattern

I fell in love with this pattern the moment it was released. This is the orchard’s dress. This became such a big hit as soon as it was released, there are so many versions for you to see on Instagram already.

The dress has a lovely neckline. Instead of using dart, the designer has used gathers at the neckline and the back to create shape. This unique feature adds lovely texture to the neckline which I love.

This pattern can be purchased from Vivian’s website.

The Fabric

I chose to make this lovely dress using Hand Block Kantha Cotton. The fabric has a lovely texture and is was very easy to work with. It would be great for any dress or blouse that needs a slight drape.

The fabric did not bleed, however it is recommended to wash Hand blocks separately for first few washes. It irons beautifully & I highly recommend you try this fabric for your projects.

Sewing up the Dress

Looking at the ease in this garment. I decided to size down considerably and chose to cut out a size 2. The pattern is designed for someone 5’5”, so I shortened the skirts by 1 inch each to match my height.

I did not perform any other modification. My only recommendation would be to consider the ease in this pattern before choosing a size. The bodice stops right below the bustline so consider where this length falls on the size you have chosen and make adjustments accordingly. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.

The instructions are pretty straight forward. Everything came together very easily and surprisingly quickly.