Wild about the Wilder Gown (too cheesy?)

I kept seeing beautiful versions of the Friday Pattern Company Wilder Gown on Instagram, but just wasn't sure it was for me, I thought the necktie might feel a bit fussy and above all else, it looked waaaaay too complicated.

What eventually persuaded me to try it was the pattern cover - it is a work of art and so beautiful I felt that I couldn't not try the pattern.

I picked up this palm leaf viscose challis fabric from the fabulous The Rag Shop in Warrington, and it being a) not too expensive and b) deadstock I was less stressed about sewing with it. I jumped straight in without a toile. I'd never made anything with raglan sleeves before and so couldn't visualise how it would come together, but I found the process really straightforward by taking it one step at a time. Ditto the necktie which is actually now one of my favourite features of the dress.

Sizing

I'm normally a UK size 12-14 and I made a size M. The finished garment measurements are generous especially over the waist and hips, you just need to watch for the bust/high bust measurements or it could end up too tight across the shoulders & chest.

Mishaps

No mishaps as such for this dress, but had I realised how much I would love it I would have bought more fabric and attempted to pattern match at the centre front seam. But that is a minor thing and I don't think it is glaringly obvious that I didn't unless you are Esme from The Great British Sewing Bee. Also I can't believe I forgot to add pockets *face plant*.

Final verdict

I LOVE this dress! It is so easy to wear and I have had more than one person stop me in the street and ask where I got it....that has never happened to me before!! "Oh I made it myself..." (casually flicking my hair) is my new response. If you are a beginner and are nervous to try, my advice would be to get hold of some straightforward (and not too expensive) fabric so that you aren't stressed about making mistakes with, and just go for it. And then swish around in your new dress and wait for someone to stop you in the street to ask where you bought it...!