THE DRESS SHIRT : RAILROAD STRIPE

Merchant & Mills : The Dress Shirt
Railroad Stripe Cotton/Linen from Sultan’s Fine Fabrics

I’m a sucker for a great stripe or plaid. This gorgeous utilitarian railroad stripe from Sultan’s Fine Fabrics is a dream fabric. I wish you could feel it. The antique vibe of the fabric went perfectly with The Dress Shirt pattern. While I was sewing this up, I felt like I was making a vintage work dress.

The long rounded front bib front is so pretty and I couldn’t resist cutting the stripe on opposite bias to create a ‘V’ effect down the centre. That of course meant that I also pattern matched the stripe to perfectly connect along that centre seam. I live for creating those kinds of special details in garments!

I find the fit very flattering, while still being loose and comfortable. Classic Merchant & Mills styling! I did take the sides in a bit for a more fitted look and I also adjusted the pattern before cutting it out to remove some of the excess from the skirt that was supposed to become a pleat. Then, rather then do a pleat I just slightly gathered it. My next version might try to remove that excess fabric completely to have a smooth finish at the bottom of the bib front.

The roll up sleeve perfectly hit the top of my elbow and I really like this length. The overall dress length is quite long. I think the length goes well with this version, but I know I’ll try other lengths next like above the knee and also tunic length. I do love how the beautiful curved hem and curved bib front look together. You can’t see this detail but I used a pretty Liberty of London for the inside back yoke facing and for the pockets.

One of the things that I really love about Me Made May is the chance to really examine my handmade wardrobe and think about each piece while planning a hundred new projects. I’m really inspired to sew so many more things right now!

The Dress Shirt : Railroad Stripe Cotton/Linen

The Dress Shirt : Railroad Stripe Cotton/Linen

The Dress Shirt : Railroad Stripe Cotton/Linen

The Dress Shirt : Railroad Stripe Cotton/Linen

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