I’m so excited to help introduce the newest pattern from Helen’s Closet, the Holmes Dress! This versatile dress features a really cool drawstring waist, v-neckline, button-down placket, and, of course, pockets! Y’all know how much I love mix and match patterns, so I’m elated to say that the Holmes Dress is cross-compatible with the Lazo Jumpsuit! Love the jumpsuit, but need sleeves? Use the Holmes bodice. Love the look of the Holmes Dress, but dresses aren’t really your thing? Use the pants or the shorts from the Lazo. Let your creativity run wild with all the modification possibilities!
For my Holmes, I made a few changes to customize the dress’s fit. First, I blended sizes 28 for my bust, 30 for my waist, and 32 for my hips. Then, I raised the neckline by three inches and added a fourth button to ensure the girls remained tastefully contained. Finally, I did a 3-inch narrow shoulder adjustment. I normally don’t make that adjustment, but the sleeves set much better after I did it.
This pattern is great for a confident beginner to an advanced sewist and everyone in between. Here’s a quick tip – when sewing, make sure you have the pockets aligned the correct way. I initially sewed the pockets to the wrong side and had to fix them. It was an easy fix, but it slowed me down. That’s what I get for not paying attention! 😆 I never sewn an external drawstring casing before, but I love it! I was so much easier to sew than regular casings!
For me, every season is linen season, and this dress is no different. I made my Holmes with the Minerva Exclusive Keechii B Style Precious Pebbles Soft Washed 100% Linen fabric in the color Honey. The color is divine, but if warm honey isn’t your thing, this fabric also comes in black. This fabric launders and sews as you would expect – perfectly. The linen is so soft but strong, and the pattern looks like a web sewn with pure sunshine! This medium weight fabric held up well when laundering and is as bright as ever. I had no issues with fraying, but I always suggest properly finishing your seams. The dress feels great in linen, but I’m interested in making another out of a light challis or a soft cotton. How about you? Are you as excited about the Holmes dress as I am!
