Simplicity 3759 - Brown & turquoise print knit dress

I found this interesting print at Denverfabrics.com some months ago. (It looks kind of equestrian to me.) I needed a simple design for it, so I used this Simplicity pattern that was in the stash. It turned out drop-waisted and rather unforgiving in the tummy area. I really have to watch my posture and not eat any big meals when I wear it. However, it's comfortable and twirly so I'm happy.

This was super simple to make. Just a few french seams and a tiny amount of bias tape and voila! A breezy summer dress to wear out and about.

The neckline has a few gathers in the front - not that noticeable on this busy print. I'm currently in love with the turquoise and brown color combination and have bought a ton of it lately.

I did deviate from the pattern instructions for the sleeves. I tried it their way and turned up the sleeve edge for a skinny double hem but it looked terrible and my stitches were really wonky. Plus, I don't like to topstitch one area of a garment when there's no other topstitching present. So I doubled the the sleeves and understitched at the inside edge - it's a lining for the sleeves only with the same fabric. I like this finish much better. Here you can see the sleeve insides and the bias tape I used along the arm seams for a smooth finish. I stitched a single layer of the facing to the dress and slip-stitched it down by hand on the inside.

Here's the french seams I used for the side seams and waist seam.

I might make the top from this pattern in the future but won't make the dress again. Too many patterns, too little time, KWIM?

Up next is a little green top from Butterick 5328, which doesn't have too great of reviews over at Pattenreview.com, but I'm hoping mine turns out fabulous.