One of the things I love about the pattern development process is coming up with variations. I love variations! The only problem is that sometimes I want to include more patterns than I can realistically put in a pattern. Sigh. I want all the variations. Sudley was kind of the worst for that. I’ve been working on this pattern for a number of years, and I just kept adding more ideas. It got to the point during development when I realised it was getting a little silly! So instead of making the pattern confusing, I decided to add some bonus variations, that people could explore themselves if they wanted. That means extra cut lines, and diagrams to illustrate what it would look like. This drop waist sleeveless Sudley dress is one of them!
Perth is stinking hot in summer. I think it’s hard to understand the Aussie heat unless you’ve lived here – the best description I’ve been able to come up with is that it feels like your skin is burning off your body. As a result, I love loose flowy dresses. I’d been craving something light, and this dress really filled that desire.
I cut the blouse length bodice and added the drop waist skirt bonus variation. Left off sleeves to keep it cool, and fully lined it because the fabric is a little sheer. I used a bamboo lining because I’m all about natural fibres against my skin, and though I can’t remember what this fabric’s content is, I’m a bit concerned it might be poly. I bought it as a remnant from the popular Perth store Potter Textiles, which sadly only sells locally and wholesale. One thing to note is length-wise – this looks quite long on me compared to other people, and keep in mind that I’m not very tall :) at 5’4″ most things are a little longer on me, so if you’re shorter too this might be a good indication for you of what you can expect length-wise.
I’m super happy with how this dress turned out! It’s been awesome for those days when I just need to throw on something quick and take the kids to school!
[Make this look]
Blouse: Megan Nielsen Sudley // Get the pattern
Shoes: Saltwater sandals in natural leather
LOOKING FOR MORE SUDLEY POSTS?
Here’s the full list of Sudley posts and tutorials:
- Pattern Tester Round-up
- Ties and Shoulder Seams
- Collar
- Bias Facing (Views A, B, D)
- Sleeves and Side Seams
- Bodice Lining (View C)
- Skirt (View C)
- Hem
Here are a couple of posts you also might find useful:
- 5 Tips to Sewing a Perfect Rounded Collar
- How to Finish the Sudley Keyhole & Neckline with a Bias Facing
A few great variations you might like to try:
- A Drop Waist Sleeveless Sudley (this post!)
- A Cinched Waist Sudley
Don’t forget to tag your creations with #MNsudley and @megannielsenpatterns when sharing on social media, and check out what everyone else is up to!
DON’T HAVE THE PATTERN YET?
