Last November, for my daughter’s birthday I sewed for her the Italia Dress from StyleArc Patterns in a wonderful plaid flannel from Mood Fabrics. Flannel is often a fabric reserved for PJs, men’s shirts, and sheets if you live in New England like me. Plaid flannel shirts have shown up the past season or two in the woman’s section, along with shirt dresses. Putting the two together seemed like a soft and cozy way to get through the winter!
StyleArc Patterns must be ordered from Australia if you would like a paper version, but most are for sale as a pdf download on Etsy, if you don’t want to wait. While you have the disadvantage of printing off at least 40 pages and then piecing them together, you do receive at least 3 sizes if you order the pdf version. Paper patterns only include one size. I used the pdf version; started with the size 10 Italia dress, graded out to a 12 in the bust, and then a 14 in the hips. To add some interest, I cut the front placket, and back yoke on the bias. I eliminated the front patch pockets – that seemed too busy with the plaid.
Directions for StyleArc patterns are minimal. For the Italia Dress, plan on having a good book available on the construction of a man’s shirt, or search You Tube for some great tutorials. Overall, I was very pleased with the results. My daughter can pair the dress with leggings and boots, and have a comfortable and cozy dress for work!
