Jalie Michelle


Another of the patterns I tested was Michelle. This was my favourite thing to wear on our trip to Mexico this winter. A dress with pockets! What more do we want in a dress?!?. This one also has the most flattering bodice and I love a gathered skirt.

As I was trying to "shop" my stash and not buy fabric unless necessary, I used this embroidered cotton I'd picked up in New York City circa 2008! I had just enough to make this dress if I flipped the direction of the embroidery so the top goes vertically and skirt horizontally. The only problem was that this fabric does not meet the criteria of flowy. I thought I'd try it anyways and get more suitable fabric for the next version.


So, um, yes... there is a reason fabric recommendations should be followed...





But I loved the bodice,  colour and pockets and just needed a tad more waist shaping so I added some 1/4 inch elastic along the skirt seam.



I just measured a length of elastic around my waist with about 1-2 inches of ease. I left the elastic exposed and I didn't want to risk chafing. Next version I may enclose it, but honestly it works as is and I now love the dress, 





I wanted to make a second version using the recommended lightweight fabric and love this version too. I may add a bit of elastic to this one too as I do like a little more waist-shaping. I can't wait for summer to come so I can pull it out. 



I absolutely love the shape the of the neckline, especially in the back. The front and back are identical but is so flattering from the back. 




It is the ultimate in easy to wear sun dress. I feel put together, but it's so comfortable and let's not forget it has pockets!!





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