Pattern Review: Viki Patterns Vanessa Dress

The Crafterpreneur is to blame for this one. She introduced me to Viki Sews Patterns, a pattern company based out of Russia. I am always interested in discovering new patterns and this Vanessa Dress caught my eye. The pattern comes with two fabrication options: one from silk, the second from artificial suede. The instruction have two versions, however they are completely in Russia, along with all the pattern markings. In the beginning, this did take some puzzling out when it came to the flounces around the neck and hem. 

I was very impressed with the fit on this pattern. Normally I have to make several pattern changes to accommodate my shape, including a full bust adjustment and correcting the lift on the sleeve/armhole. However, when I mocked up the straight size 38, I was impressed that no changes where needed. The pattern itself is beautifully drafted and went together very well. 

The pattern includes a 1cm seam allowance. I decided to do all seams french seams. I started with wrong sides together, sewing a 1/2 cm seam allowance and trim down to 1/3cm. Turn to have right sides together and sew 1/2cm. I like french seams from this garment and fabric because it gives an extra sturdiness to the seams, while also cleaning up the inside. I did make one small change to the pattern- the sleeve finish. The pattern called for cuff with a button closure. I wanted to add a little more flirty to the sleeves, so I decided to do and elastic thread ruching. 

 

The fabric came from Blackbird Fabrics. It was deadstock and, sadly, no longer available. The fabric is a rayon crepe, which makes it so delicate. It snags and runs easily. I had a dull straight pin and it pulled one thread just a little too much. Luckily, it was close to the seam allowance, so I was able to hide it. I am going to have to be careful when wearing. No velcro is allowed near me in this one. Oh, how I hate velcro!

For future, I would not change a thing about this sew!

 

Happy Sewing!