I can’t believe it’s already the end of September! Despite the high temperatures forecasted for the next week, I only have one more day of pretending it’s summer before it’s gets kinda sad. Luckily for me, autumn is my all-time favorite season! While it’s not quite sweater weather, it is the perfect time to start pulling out transitional pieces and cute items to layer.
Recently, I spotted a cute black, sleeveless, tea-length dress on Pinterest that was layered with a white button-down shirt and neckerchief. It was so cute and stylish, and it solved a dilemma I’d been struggling with since I received my fabric. When I first ordered this lush, deep ruby Tencel twill from Minerva, I planned on making a simple pencil skirt. However, I loved this fabric and wanted to think of a way to make it more versatile. While a pencil skirt is cute, I knew that I would rarely wear it. Once I saw the dress on Pinterest, everything became clear! Using the Cashmerette Upton Dress & Skirt plus Mix & Match Expansion Pack, I made this lovely sleeveless dress that’s perfect for layering.
I’ve reviewed this pattern tons of times before, so I won’t repeat myself other than to say that if you don’t already own it, stop wasting time and get it. Currently, you can purchase the pattern in PDF for $25 or printed for $31. Do yourself a favor and purchase the printed pattern. Unless you have access to a free large format plotter or printer, it will cost way more to print all the pattern pieces out yourself.
As I mentioned before, the fabric is the Minerva Exclusive Scattered Spots 40mm Tencel Lyocell Twill in the color Ruby. This fabric comes in 44 different colors and features 40mm/1.5 inch polka dots. This is one of Minerva’s new printed on demand fabrics, so while it may take a little longer to reach you, you can be sure that you’re making a more sustainable and conscientious fabric choice. This fabric laundered great, but to keep the color rich, I will be sure to wash in cold water going forward. To lessen the chance of snags, I used a new, sharp needle when sewing and had no issues. This non-stretch, medium-weight twill is perfect for sewing transitional pieces as it breathes well without being too thin. I’m obsessed and can’t wait until the weather cools down enough to rock this dress in all its versatile glory!
