From the first moment I laid eyes on Vogue 1531 by designer Lialia, I knew I had to make this! The front with the dramatic cowl neck is beautiful. But the open-back design sealed the deal! This pattern just called out to me. There is something sexy, yet sophisticated and polished about this look. I feel what keeps it in this zone is the choice of fabric.
So I immediately started searching for an amazing fabric choice. I couldn't find anything quite right. It's like when you have an idea of what you want, but not a definitive definition. But When Carlos Correa from McCall Pattern Company did his "Closer Look: V1531 Dress Pattern" video and I saw him handle the designer dress' fabric, I knew I was going to go with a lightweight crepe!
The first consideration in choosing a fabric for this dress is to take in mind how the cowl needs to drape and that the wrong side of the fabric will show! You can't use a fabric with too much body nor can you use a knit with too much stretch. So a lightweight woven fabric with a little bit of give that would support a tailored fully-lined sheath dress with a beautifully draped cowl was needed. So I picked this Italian Rose Dust Polyester Stretch Crepe from Mood Fabrics.com.
For the pattern, I cut a size 12 in the bodice and graded to a size 14 at the waist.
Fitting tip: Measure yourself for your bodice based on the bra you'll be wearing. It makes a difference. And sew the lining first in case you need to make alterations. Also, I read a couple of reviews of this dress and the center front seam of the skirt was questioned. Trust me on this, if you have a bit of a belly, this seam is your new best friend! Use it as an opportunity to refine fit!
The dress also has a vent. The cowl was simple, it's basically a rectangular tube. However, I did decide to change the finish. The instructions suggested a Hong Kong finish. And I didn't use the drawstring. I don't plan to ever wear this as a hood!
I decided a flat-felled finish would do this dress better justice.
The dress has an invisible zipper and a very necessary hook & eye closure.
I love this dress and I would love to make it again. But I think I love the fabric even more! I plan to order it in another color or 2!
