Easy Breezy: Helen’s Closet Orchard Dress
Helen’s Closet
Easy, breezy dress for this hot summer we’re having.
Overview:
Skill Level: ★★
Sewing Time:
Pattern Rating: ★★★★★
This is a dress that I made one day and wore the next which I love. The day I wore it was HOT, even for the south and I was so happy I had this dress to wear as anything more woud’ve been oppressively hot.
Pattern:
The Orchard top/dress is a FREE pattern from Helen’s Closet. Who doesn’t love FREE?! There are 4 length options; crop top, hip length top, above the knee dress and midi dress. Each view features a dartless a-line silhouette, spaghetti straps as well as inseam pockets for the dress views. It is also size inclusive spanning sizes for a 31”-60” bust.
I chose to sew view C mainly due to the yardage of fabric I wanted to use. This pattern has one main piece for the front and back that is cut on the fold. In order to save a bit more fabric I decided not to cut the back piece on the fold. Instead I added a 1/2” to the center back and cut two pieces for the back. This allowed be to save about a yard of fabric which I plan to use for a cami at some point.
This is my first make from Helen’s Closet and I am impressed. The instructions were clear and detailed. I especially appreciated the pattern instructions on how to alter the straps for tie straps or add hardware for adjustable straps.
Fabric:
Remember when I told you about Lucky Sweater, the app where you can trade your me made makes, fabrics, notions, patterns, etc… Well I got this lovely dotted rayon fabric from a generous woman on the app who gifted it to me. I don’t know where she got it from orginally, but it is lightweight and drapey and great for this dress.
Modifications:
I added SA and cut the back in two pieces instead of on the fold to save fabric.
Due to the light weight of this fabric I omitted the pockets.
I also used French seams for the side and center back seams.
Lessons Learned:
N/A
Summary:
Pattern: Helen’s Closet Orchard Top Dress
Pattern Description: spaghetti straps top or dress that features a dartless a-line silhouette. Inseam pockets are included for the dress views.
Sizing: 0-34
Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes
Were the instructions easy to follow: The instructions were very clear and offered alternative methods
Would I recommend it to others? Yes