So in 2017, the cold shoulder trend is still going strong and according to the runways, it's not about to let up anytime soon. That's why I decided to add this fabulous cold shoulder sweater dress to my wardrobe.

My dress is Butterick 6425. I modified mine, slightly.  My fabric is this gorgeous Black/white Abstract Ribbed Knit from Mood Fabrics. It has such an interesting weight to it that I would call it more of a sweater knit. 

As with most garments I sew, I needed to lengthen this dress. I added 4 inches to the length. I wanted my hemline to fall at the knee. 

This pattern was meant to create a loose fitting dress with a self tie. I wanted something more body-con because I felt it would fit the weight of my fabric a lot better. With a knit this beefy, I might as well take advantage with a form-fitting garment.

I cut the top of the dress in a size 12 and graded to a 14 at the waist and through the hips. I tapered in the waist and also the hem. So a belt was unnecessary.

This fabric is a panel print. I ordered 2 panels just to make sure I had enough to lay out the print like I wanted to. It sewed really well, basically like a heavy weight ponte knit. I used a ball point needle and finished it with my serger.

The neckline and the sleeve openings are just a 5/8" hem. I typically like a bound finish in these areas, but this works fine. I feel if you don't over manipulate these areas you can get a lovely, clean and neat finish without it looking stretched out and wonky.

I absolutely love this dress. I think the abstract print plus the knee length hem makes this dress look pretty high-end. I'm going to enjoy wearing this!