Style Arc Elley Knit Dress

I have been really enjoying PDF patterns lately!  I have never sewn a Style Arc Pattern before and this classic dress caught my eye so I thought I would give it a try.  The Elley dress is a simple pull-on knit dress.  

My biggest trouble is figuring out what size I am.  I usually measure between sizes and different sizes between my bust and my hips.  Should I size up, size down? Ugggh!

Style Arc Elley Knit Dress

I cut a straight size 16. The fit was ok.  I ended up having to take in the side seams at the bust 1/2" and shortened the skirt 3".  I must be getting shorter as I age!  I like the cap style sleeves and the modest neckline.  The skirt stumped me at first but patience paid off & I figured it out and then realized I overthink things sometimes.

Style Arc Elley Knit Dress

The waist was a little too big, but I didn't want to take the dress apart just to take in the bodice so I added a little pleat into the center back. 

Back View

I may consider sizing down on another version. I also didn't not use the bias tape on the neckline and armholes.  To eliminate bulk, I just turned and top-stitch.  Easy for me.  

Style Arc Elley Knit Dress

The back pleat is just pinned in.  I am thinking I may sew in a piece of elastic instead.  I'm still on the fence.

Fabric I used was a pre-cut piece of ITY Knit from FabricMartFabrics I purchased a few years ago.  I miss those Pre-cut sales.  $4.80 for a wearable muslin. 

 I am very happy with my first Style Arc pattern and I am thinking of looking at more of their patterns.

Until next time.................

Bonnie