Simplicity 3503

Last summer, I made a couple of muslins of this pattern, but I was too scared to cut into my fabric, so it sat. But fabric is no good folded up in my sewing room (even if it is 40 year old irreplaceable fabric), so I pulled up my big girl pants and cut.

And I love my new dress!! The pattern is the much beloved Simplicity 3503. It was a best pattern over at PR in 2009, and as of this post, has 89 reviews, most of which are glowingly positive.

The fabric is Qiana, which is a nylon knit produced by DuPont that premiered in 1968. It was produced to replicate silk and is particularly known for it's use in 70s "disco" shirts although it was used in a wide variety of garments. It came from my mother's stash, although she will be quick to tell you that she did not buy this. It was given to her by my aunt who is known for her love of loud colors and prints.

Here is a closer shot of the print. The color looks pretty true to life on my monitor. It really is that bright. I love that little purple frog. He has some green friends scattered about as well. Despite this being a synthetic fiber, I actually found it pretty forgiving to sew. It pressed and eased well and wasn't too slippery to cut.

I did have to make quite a few alterations to get the fit I wanted. I raised the neckline about an inch in front and added some width as an FBA. I moved the shoulder gathers more toward the front of the bodice, so that the fullness was over my bust.

In back, I raised the neckline a lot - about 3 inches. As drafted, you'd need a backless bra to wear it. I wanted this to be an easy summer piece, so I didn't want to fuss with special underwear. With the back neckline raised, the tie becomes purely decorative, as it isn't needed to hold the shoulders up, but I do think it's cute, so I put it on.

The skirt and midriff band are perfect as drafted. It has pockets!! Love that. I had considered reducing or eliminating the front gathers, since they were a bit poufy in my first muslin, but the drape of the Qiana and the weight of the long skirt takes care of the pouf, and I find them very flattering. The skirt length was even perfect. I often find I need to lengthen Simplicity patterns, but this was just right. If you are taller than about 5'7" though, you may want some more length in the skirt.

Laugh all you want, Mom. I'm going to wear this ALL. THE. TIME. Now, anyone know where I can get my hands on some more Qiana?