Dear Prudence Dress Pattern Tour

Today I’m participating in the pattern tour for my friend Suz of Sewpony Vintage’s latest pattern, the Dear Prudence Dress.  This pattern is for girls’ sized 12M to 10 years.  I’ll give the release discount right here at the beginning so you don’t have to search for it!  Take 15% off with the code PRUDENCE15 from July 6th to 17th.

This pattern has so many great details!  I love, love the way the neckline is a combination of elastic and shirring so that the entire front expands to slip over Arden’s head.  I should have pulled the elastic just a teensy bit more snug so it isn’t slightly looser than the shirring, but that is so not a big deal.

The squared off pockets are a nice shape, and sized just right for stashing some treasures.  The pattern gives instructions for piping at the pocket and collar, but I opted to use some crocheted lace trim.  I need to ask my Mom – I think it’s something my Grandma made herself!  It’s an easy enough substitution – I basted a line on the pieces first and used that as a guide to then baste the trim. It’s pretty narrow, so only one line of the crochet is caught in that seam.  Then place the matching collar or pocket bag piece behind and use the basting lines as a guide for sewing.  Ta-dah!

Suz references my video for sewing a lined bodice with no closures as she utilizes that technique for the sleeveless and extended cap sleeve views.  The back has an enclosed elastic that ends up similar to the Verona Dress, but without the extra layer of underskirt.  Very slick and I have to think that makes for a comfy dress!

The fabric I used is poplin from the Lisette Collection at Jo-Ann Fabrics.  It’s a really lovely weight – perfect for summer.  The collar and pocket lining are Cotton Couture from Michael Miller Fabrics.  I let Arden choose the style from the many options in the pattern.  This is the sleeveless dress, but there is also an extended cap sleeve, and three-quarter length sleeves.

Since I have the crocheted edge on the collar, I opted to leave off the button on the collar.  I also interfaced it to give a little more of a structured feel.  When I make this again, I’ll try the softer collar with a button – how cute would this be with a little bow slipped under the collar?

Arden measured for the size 6 and the fit is great!  Her measurements are chest: 24″ waist: 23″ hip: 24″ height: 46″

Outfit Details:
Dress: Dear Prudence Dress by Sewpony Vintage
Fabric: Lisette poplin from Jo-Ann Fabrics and Cotton Couture from Michael Miller Fabrics
Shoes: Native Shoes