Review on Style Arc Sewing Pattern - Montana Midi Dress (Sizes 04-16) - Explore More Sizes Here by Jessica Lewis

Not the fastest pattern, but certainly beautiful and functional. I first made a piece of muslin to work out the creases and was going to make a few more. On all models I raised the neck by about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Otherwise the neckline would gape and expose more skin than I would like. no 1 was one size larger. For #2 I downsized to 14 which fits better. But it looked a little square. For the next three variations, I trimmed the bottom of the bodice about 1/2" to 3/4" from each side seam and gathered the skirt accordingly. Gives a little more waist. Of course, it's still a voluminous dress. You can make the skirt assembly easier by marking the middle of the bodice and skirt. I had a hard time figuring out how to put together a lined bodice; couldn't wrap my brain around it. The instructions are minimal, but if you follow them, it works. After the lining and bodice are sewn together, pull out the shoulders and pin or baste the shoulder seam. (For each side, thread the back strap through the front strap or vice versa.) Pull back to make sure you got it right. (I had to completely disassemble a bodice after all the seams were cut - don't make that mistake!) I can't write exact instructions. Only believe but verify. I'll try to upload some photos but the site doesn't allow it at the moment. It took me at least 10 hours to make each dress (with the bodice lined and the seams finished). The rehearsal lasted about 16 hours. You could save a lot of time if you didn't use lining and (ah) pockets. IMHO it is these qualities that make the dress spectacular. I used printed cotton for three dresses and linen for one. The linen is exquisite but heavy, I cannot travel with it. For future models, I might use light linen for the bodice lining as it dries quickly on sweaty days. The cut of the bodice seems to hide sweat, especially when you're wearing a tank top. For a big dress, it's graceful, elegant, and downright comfortable. Love.