NewLook 6909 - Gray pinstripe wool dress

This was a new pattern last fall that I absolutely fell in love with: the rolled standing bias collar, collar bow, front pockets, tucked cap sleeves and fitted sheath shape. I knew a pinstripe was needed to show off all the bias details, and found this lightweight wool at Hancock's for 50% off. Looks exactly like the envelope picture, right? Sometimes I am very influenced by the pattern picture, as I'm sure some of you are as well.

I would try this on for you but it doesn't fit currently. I'm 6 months pregnant. However, it fits my custom dressform perfectly, so it is sure to fit me. Very few alterations were needed. A bit was taken off the upper side seams for my small bust and some was added to the waist. I have a very square shape. The only other fit detail was to shave 3/8" off the center front panel in the hip area. That was kind of a strange princess seam, and you'll note on the envelope picture how their mock up is baggy on the model in that area. I'm guessing most people don't have hips that jut forward at the side front seams, but I could be wrong.

The pattern pieces were cut out individually to insure that they were on grain and mirror images of the other half. This is a pain, but makes for a very expensive looking garment.

Here is the neckline and bow detail that I so adored. The rest of the dress is pretty simple, and I feel it adds a bit of whimsy without being too cutesy.

An invisible zipper was used at the back and the collar closed with two hooks and eyes.

Here are the cute tucked sleeves. The pattern calls for them to be fully lined, as you can see, to hold the tucks in place.

Don't you just love a dress with pockets? Especially these with their bias facings and angled tops. So fun.

I added a full lining to this dress using black Ambiance. I simply cut the dress out in lining fabric - minus the pocket openings - and used the facings for iron-on interfacing. It's super simple to do, and a must with a wool dress, IMO. The only exposed seam at the armholes was covered with black bias tape.

This dress is definitely for fall with it's wool content and dark color. I'm thinking of knitting a red wool wrap to wear with it on chilling mornings before something heavier is needed. That collar doesn't look like it will cooperate with any of my winter coats. Up next is a jacket so I can keep up with my quota of at least one jacket each month. And I'm not fibbing this time as it's already partially cut out.