I made this Oliver + S Badminton dress for Stella ages ago.  AGES ago!  At the very beginning of the year, I think!  I made it according to her specifications – then she refused to wear it.  Until last weekend, that is!

Ah, so fickle! The fabric is a lovely border printed cotton voile, that I think came from Darn Cheap ages ago. It’s such a long time since I made it that I have no idea what size it is, although I suspect I used size 6. Are you wondering what made her finally decide to wear it? Well, it was the opportunity to match her big sister.  Clare’s dress is blogged here.

Clare rolled her eyes when Stella came down the stairs wearing her dress, but was very gracious in not objecting. I don’t think that she’ll put up with matchy matchy for much longer, however! The Badminton dress is a lovely style, with the usual complement of little Oliver + S details that make their patterns that bit more special. The scalloped hemline, the ribbon casing that gathers the centre front, and the little ruffles on the straps really do make this a pretty frock.

The armholes are bound with bias made from the same fabric, and the dress is gathered into the neck bands both at the front and at the back. The relaxed style makes it very comfortable to wear, and cool for hot days.

Now let’s hope that she’ll wear it more often before it gets too short!