The power of dressmaking with Candice Whitley

This pattern was the first jumpsuit I ever made. They are great to wear out but also perfect for lazing around the house as they are so comfortable. They are a good starter for a beginner to make as they don’t require zips or button holes however do be warned the instructions aren’t as informative as other beginner patterns. I’ve made this garment previously in cotton, poplin and rayon but would also think version A in a crepe and version B in a linen would also be great.

This is my go to dress for an event as it is an easy and quick but elegant make. No zips or button holes are needed so I would recommend an adventurous beginner could definitely tackle this one. I love that depending on your fabric choice it can be great for all events whether it be a casual outing or a wedding. I have made this dress previously in rayon, cotton and poplin. I can also see myself making this dress in a silky type fabric for a special occasion.

I would describe this dress as cinched waist but still have the twirl factor. It is perfect for all occasions from picnic to party. It has an invisible zip and bias binding finishes for the neck and arm holes. The body is made up of 6 pieces which you can have a lot of fun with. You can either use 1 fabric or several fabrics to mix and match and make a very eye catching dress. I combined 1/8 and ½ gingham which I absolutely love. I have also made this dress in a poplin and linen. I think a rainbow dress with each panel being a different colour/pattern would look amazing.

What a fantastic starter into men’s wear. The instructions are easy and it’s a quick make. I think it is great that it also comes in kid sizes as well if you wanted to make matching outfits. I have made the men’s shirt over 15 times using cotton, poplin, drill and broadcloth. I did make one in rayon but I think using a fabric with a bit more structure is ideal.

When I first saw this pattern I thought retro bowling shirts and I’m all for it. This shirt has great finishing techniques I have not seen in other patterns and would suit an intermediate sewist who already has the shirt making basics down. I love how you can mix and match different fabrics to make a completely unique shirt that will really stand out at events. I have made this shirt in drill, cotton and broadcloth.

The sleeves. Do I need to say more? This pattern is just so elegant and simple but also statement pieces. Version A sleeves give off flowy vibes whereas version B sleeves need structure. I think version A would be great in a silky type or rayon and version B would be great in a cotton/poplin.

This pattern makes me want to learn how to sew with stretch material. I have attempted in the past but have never been able to accomplish it however this could change. I adore the pockets on the pants and the sleeve binding and I can’t wait to attempt it. I love the feeling of bamboo knit and so I think this will be my first attempt. I would also like to attempt it in a rib knit or velvet as well. This will definitely be my new year new sewing adventure.  

Mitchell picked out this pattern because he can’t stand wearing pants with no pockets. He also wants matching pants to the shirts I make and what a better pattern than one that includes all his requirements. I plan on using this pattern to make party/festival outfits for Mitchell. We discussed fabric and decided some fun cotton or linen fabric would be best suited as events can get quite hot here in Queensland. 

I love the style of a loose flowing dress while still having a fitted bodice and this pattern checks those boxes. I think it will be a great wardrobe basic as you can mix and match the sleeves and skirt lengths to create more than just the 3 options given. Each variation looks like a completely different dress and depending on your choices you can make a dress to suit each season. I can see this pattern fitting into  my everyday wear perfectly. I think it would look great in a colourful cotton or gingham.