Pattern Description: Style Arc Hope Woven Dress + Extension Pack. Combine the much loved Hope Woven Dress pattern plus 3 extra bodices and 3 extra sleeve options included in the Hope Extension Pack.

Pattern Sizing: AUS 4-30. I sewed a size 4 with the tie-front bodice and (initially) the pleated sleeve.

Were the instructions easy to follow? They were brief but the diagrams and text were easy to follow.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I love the relaxed fit of the dress--perfect for summer. I also love that it has pockets.

I did not like the instructions for interfacing the neckline. The pattern calls for interfacing to be ironed onto the neckline of the dress and then you bias bind the neckline with the tie pattern piece. The interfacing shows on the reverse side of the fabric and generally looks messy. I ended up trimming away the interfacing from the fronts because you could see the interfacing when the ties are left undone.

Fabric Used: Minerva Core Range Cotton Sateen Fabric Peacock, 2.8 m. I love this fabric. It has a similar feel to a high quality cotton lawn but isn't sheer. it's the perfect weight and drape for a summer dress.

Changes/alterations: I did not shorten the skirt. Because I am 4'9" the skirt is much longer on me than intended but I actually prefer the longer length.

I intially made the view with the pleated sleeves but I really did not like how it looked (mirror selfie). I unpicked the sleeves, took out the pleats, evened out the pattern pieces and sewed them back together. Then I finished the ends with an elastic casing. I much prefer the look now. If I had it to do all over again I would just do the normal elastic gathered sleeves that come with the original pattern.

Would you sew it again? Eventually, I probably will. This is my second version of the Hope dress. I wanted to sew another because my first is so incredibly comfortable. I would like to sew some of the other variations but I will likely wait for awhile.

If I made this view with the ties again, I would lengthen the ties so that I can make a bow (they are quite short as-is), I would skip interfacing, and I might raise the neckline about an inch. I'm satisified with this version, however.

Conclusion: I love my vibrant blue Hope dress. I know it will get so much wear this summer.

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