I bought this fabric online as a remnant from Tessuti. When it arrived I took an almost physical dislike to it and threw it in the stash cupboard, hoping that I could forget about it.
The problem is that I kept coming across it and finally analysed my issues. I bought it for pants, and it would be horrible made up as pants (for me), however, it might be nice as a dress?
Yep, this fabric makes a great dress. I am now totally smitten. I love the colours and even the weird little flower girls which have made centre stage front and back.

I’m also quite a fan of this pattern Kwik Sew 3245.

It’s pretty shapeless, but I took it in 2cm on each side and dropped the waist a smidge (but not enough). This has helped, and of course, a belt cinching it in helps even more :). I added sleeves, shorter than the ones I added to my Hybrid dress because I didn’t have enough fabric. The pattern matching is pretty good for me; I redrafted the pattern so that I could cut from one layer of fabric, making it easier to match everything perfectly.

I can wear it without the belt, but it’s a bit longer than I would like. I left it long because I wanted the pale border round the bottom.

I think that this is a dress that I will wear often, with different belts and shoes.

A jobbing sewists review of Kwik Sew 3245:

Pattern Description: Misses pullover dresses have scoop necklines and waist seam. Skirt has tucks on front and back. Neckline and armholes are finished with bias-cut bindings. View A has ties on the back.
Pattern Sizing: xs to xl.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
So simple. It took about two hours to make, including a long time fussing with the pattern placement.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like that I can wear it loose if I choose, but it does suit different styles of belts. Pockets are also great!

Fabric Used: A beautiful patterned ponti.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:
I added sleeves, took it in 2cm on each side and slightly dropped the waist.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
This is the second time that I’ve made this dress, and I think it suits a slightly heavier fabric such as the ponti. I would definitely recommend it. I think it’s a style that would suit a lot of shapes.
Conclusion: A good pattern to have in the repertoire. It doesn’t use a lot of fabric and is simple to make, but can look quite stylish.

The details:

Pattern is Kwik Sew 3245 (in case you didn’t get that already!)

Fabric is a patterned ponti from Tessuti

Belt is from Sab Five Five

Shoes from Singapore