Simplicity #3803 pattern review-- #Oonapalooza

I have returned from my trip to Las Vegas...it is SOOOOOOOO hot there.  I am not used to temperatures in the 40's.  Nonetheless, I had a swell time with my hubby (sans mini me).  I saw some amazing shows,ate at wonderful restaurants and caught up on some much needed rest and relaxation.



Now about this dress... One of the many sewing blogs that I read on a regular basis is #Oonaballoona.   I love her use of colours and style.  July is Oonapalooza, that is we are to create something that is Oona inspired in style, colour or design.  I decided to go with this VERY funky butterfly print.  The lovely ladies at my fabric store convinced me this would be a great print to try a full maxi dress.  I am not one for such bold colours because the "fashion" world say that a woman under 5', should not wear such big bold patterns, BUT I have to admit, this summer, I am enjoying the bold prints and the vibrant colours.  I had this Simplicity 3803 in my collection for quite some time and never really ventured to try this pattern out.  I used to always get nervous around fitted bodice because inevitably I would always need to do a FBA.  Thankfully, I have found a technique that works for me and I can do it in my sleep.

Here is my full pattern review for Simplicity 3803:

Pattern Sizing: I cut a View A, size 8 and did a FBA in the bodice.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yep, it sure did.

Were the instructions easy to follow? I didn't use the instructions...

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love this fit and style of the dress.  The pattern had various options for the neckline and the back.  I like that you could add a ruffle to the bottom of the dress, have a halter neckline.  In this view that I sewed, the back bodice is opened until about the mid point of your back.

Fabric Used: I used a printed cotton and  simple orange broadcloth for the lining.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I did a FBA to the bodice of the dress.  I wanted a full maxi dress but still needed to shortened the length by about 5".  I used an exposed zipper to add a bit of flair to the back (hard to see in the photos)

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? YEP!  already in the works.  I really like the fit of this dress and the options to make it in various lengths and styles.

Conclusion: Excellent pattern.  Sews up quick and easy.

excuse the bra

excuse the bra...again