I think that this is the last of the garments I sewed at November Sewjourn!  It’s the Style Arc Vivienne Designer Frock (love that they call it a frock – it’s a work that I often use, but don’t see written very often).

From their website: This cleverly designed style has no side seams allowing it to fall beautifully around the body. The grain of the fabric falls on the sides allowing the front and back to drape freely. The neckline is shaped to fit close to the side neck and finishes into a slim “V”. The slightly extended shoulder line is very flattering. Wide welted pockets add to the designer look of this dress. This is a versatile dress that can be worn on hot days or pop on a skivvy during the colder months. FABRIC SUGGESTION & DESCRIPTION: Linen, Crepe, Silk, or even a light Ponte.

http://www.stylearc.com.au/stylearc/images/2015/VIVIENNE-FROCK.jpg

The fabric is cotton/linen from Darn Cheap Fabrics. I sewed size 12, without alteration. I really like the way that the seams are centre front and centre back – quite a change to usual. Because it is such a simple style I made certain to include the welt pockets.

They aren’t perfectly sewn, and neither was the centre front V sewn entirely to my satisfaction. Interestingly, after a wear, a wash and an iron, the fabric has relaxed a little more (it had been pre-washed before I made the garment) and the welts and front V sit pretty much perfectly without any tension from the stitching. I should have photographed it after the second wear!

I particularly like the wide facings around the neckline and armhole. They give the dress structure and support – remember there are no side seams – and the topstitching adds detail. I think that this dress will get better and better with wear, and agree with Style Arc that it would make a great winter pinafore in a different fabric.