Review: Vogue 8797 | Hi-Low Hem Shirtdress

Happy Shrove Tuesday!

  This is the first pattern I've sewn from the new Vogue Patterns spring collection.  It's 8797.

The description states: Loose-fitting top or dress has collar, yokes, back pleats, back longer than front and narrow hem. A: stitched hem on sleeves. B: sleeves with seam opening, pleats and button cuffs. Semi-fitted, tapered pants have waistband and side zipper. Purchased belt.

I cut the size 16 and used a crepe de chine-like fabric.  I bought it a while ago from Jo-Anns and I'm pretty sure it's a poly print.  But I love the explosion of colors and the weight and drape of the fabric.  Look at how it flows.  It's very fluid and it'll be perfect for those mild spring days.

I wanted the back hem to have a slight bit of drama to it, so I extended the "low" hem by 3 inches.

And I also changed the buttonhole orientation from horizontal to vertical.  I looked at shirtdresses on sites such as Net-A-Porter.com and studied the buttonholes on similar dresses they had available and the ALL had vertical buttonholes.  I also decided to ask Mr. Google.  In my research, I found that the reason that this pattern had horizontal buttonholes was (1) because it does not have a placket; and (2) because horizontal buttonholes stay buttoned more securely.  But when deciding whether to place buttonholes horizontally or vertically, it's determined both by function and fashion.  I choose "fashion".  I thought the original design caused the shirtdress to look dated and not in a cool vintage-y sort of way.

I also added a double yoke to the back and finished off my seams with the serger. 

I really like this pattern and the "hi-low" hemline is so on trend.  I would LOVE to make one of these in several colors for spring.  Who knows... if I get time, I may make this one in another color!