Zadie, Zadie, Pretty Lady!
I was instantly smitten when Tilly released her Zadie pattern! I knew I needed this dress, but I didn't dive in until I found the perfect fabric - Indiesew's rayon striped ponte.
Pattern: Zadie Dress by Tilly & the Buttons
Materials: 2.5 yds Rayon Ponte in Natural Stripe, .75 yds of Soy French Terry in Black, 1.5 yds 3/8" clear elastic
Size made: 8 (US 16)
Modifications: I cut the skirt on the cross-grain so the stripes would be vertical.
Indiesew's Rayon Ponte is a stable double knit with an amazing drape. I like my jersey dresses to be thicker than my tees, and this was absolutely perfect! I paired it with a solid black Soy French Terry because I wanted something in a similar weight for the side panels, sleeves, and neckband. Stripes are the perfect opportunity to play with pattern placement, so I cut my bodice stripes horizontally and skirt stripes vertically.
Tilly's pattern was easy to follow and surprisingly quick! Almost every seam was sewn on a regular machine with a narrow zig zag stitch, and then she tells you which seams can be trimmed with a serger. I'm used to serging everything when it comes to knits, but I'm glad I followed her recommendations because I think those points at the waist and hips were much easier with the sewing machine.
I hadn't worked with ponte before, but I can't wait to use it again! It was easy to sew and has the perfect drape for a dress! Paired with the french terry, this dress is super comfy and feels like secret pajamas. My only problem came with the hem. I tried to use a fresh, new double needle, which worked perfectly with the french terry but skipped a ton of stitches with the rayon ponte. I'm not quite sure why, but a simple zig zag at the bottom hem worked just as well.
The seams on this dress are like magic ~ instantly slimming with some extra interest than your standard jersey dress. I'm so glad I went with the contrasting fabrics, because the black just enhanced that magic! I honestly think Zadie would look great in just about any jersey - solids, stripes, print, or a mix of the above. I currently have 2 more variations planned for my sewing table.
Comments on this post (3)
It looks adorable on you—thanks for sharing
— Gayle
Whaaaaaat?! This dress is amazing and it looks so chic! I must have an identical dress right away! Can we then go as twins to a party and pretend like everything is normal? Heh heh… I have never sewn with rayon ponte before, so this makes me want to try. Thanks for posting!
— Alsn
Caitlin is the cutest! I would love to make this dress!!
(and OMG is the title a Funny Girl reference?! You guys are killing me <3)
— Allison