If you are in need of a quick fix dress pattern that contains only three pattern pieces, then you can’t go past Vogue 1179, a DKNY (Donna Karan New York) pattern.

I squeezed the pattern pieces from a textured striped knit I bought at Clegs earlier in the year. I didn’t have enough fabric to match the stripes properly at the sides, but I hope that most people won’t notice (well, you will, because I just pointed it out).

I shortened the pattern pieces in two places to allow for my lack of height.  It kept the proportions right so was worth doing.  I also simplified the construction as per suggestions on Pattern Review – I just turned and twin needle stitched the armhole edges, and to attach the cowl I folded it in half wrong sides together, then overlocked it to the neckline.  Even though this dress is super simple it’s beautifully drafted and the front pleats and cowl give it a bit of oomph.  And it’s incredibly comfortable of course!

My favourite garments are always the ones that are loose around the waist and stomach. This will be a great layering piece – I’ve got some petrol blue wool jersey that is begging to be used with the same pattern.

My computer came back this week and we are finally starting to catch up on getting it all back up to date and making sure that it’s networked and everything operating as it should.  My apologies to anyone who is still waiting for a response to an email – I will get to you, I promise!  Things have been rather hectic here.