Summertime and the livin is easy

11:59:00 AM,3 Comments

It's almost summer.  School ends next week, the weather has been hot and sunny, and I am getting bigger by the day.  My pregnant self is ready for pool days and no commitments for a few weeks!

Since I am {FINALLY} feeling somewhat normal these days, I have been testing patterns more!  I took a long hiatus from sewing anything not related to work but I'm now ready to take advantage of my final burst of energy until Baby #4 makes his/her debut!



One of my new favorite sews was the Sightseer Sun Dress from my dear friend Suzanne, designer and owner of Winter Wear Designs.



This pattern is a must have for lots of reasons.  First off, the size range is amazing, including sizes 1-16!!  Second, I like to have options and this pattern is chocked full of them!  





For my version, I chose the tunic length in a gathered skirt, with an exposed zipper.  I knew this would be perfect paired with all the shorts I made the little lady last summer!



My little lady is super petite and in between sizes 1 and 2 right now.  Next time I know to take a bigger SA when sewing and I think the fit will be even better!



I ADORE the back!!  I mean come one?!?!?  That deep v-back is {AMAZE}!!  I love the simplicity of the front mixed with the stunning back!  And that zipper!!  I found this in a box of sewing notions from my best friend's Grandpa who was an amazing tailor.  It is an amazing honor to be able to keep his memory alive by using these treasures!



I knew when I searched through my fabric stash that this Riley Blake Vintage Market fabric would be absolutely perfect!  I had been saving this fabric for the perfect pattern, and I knew this was the one! 





I love the extra "vintagey" feel the red and white polka-dot bias tape gives the tunic!!  Such a fun look.  And after sewing, I added a big wooden button to the bodice because who doesn't love a wood button?!?!?! 



This fantastic button is from Bethany Lane.  Their buttons are great quality and sew cute!!  I love to use them on my garments!



I love the details and helpful hints put into this pattern.  Suzanne does a fantastic job of walking you through how to make your own bias tape which is oh so helpful.  And the tutorial is easy to follow and includes both line drawings and color photos.



If you are nervous about sewing a zipper, don't be! the zipper instructions will have you feeling like a zipper pro in no time!



I really love this pattern and will definitely be making more.  My daughter loves her top and we get compliments on it everywhere we go!  You can't beat that!  Grab your copy of the Sightseer Sun Dress today!!  You won't regret it!