An Ode to the Full-Length Wiksten Shift Dress

There's something magical about the full-length Wiksten Shift Dress pattern. It's got just a bit of drama, but it is understated and comfortable to wear.  We love this dress in yarn-dyed ticking and linen gauze - read on for more details.

In case you missed it, we cover Wiksten Shift Tops here and Wiksten Shift Short Dresses here. 

Danielle's Stripey Full-Length Shift
Size made: 4 (but measured at the size 6)
Modifications: None
Material Used: Yarn Dyed Ticking in Dark Blue

Sometimes I can be a little indecisive when trying to visualize the perfect pattern/fabric combo, but I knew as soon as the Wiksten Shift pattern came out that it would be amazing in our dark blue Yarn-Dyed Ticking.

Often times, the rebellious side of me needs to use an unexpected fabric or change the pattern in some way, but I fell in love with the long dress version and the striped fabric (my new obsession!) that’s on the pattern cover, so I went for it and I’m so glad I did.

For this pattern, I measured at the size 6 but read that the dress was more generous in ease than the top, so I took the pattern’s suggestion to go down two sizes. I made the 4, and it fits perfectly. I still have plenty of room for activities and to move with ease, and I can wear it with or without the tie depending on how dressy I want it to feel.

The shift has already claimed a spot in my regular summer rotation and snagged multiple compliments from non-sewists (which is always fun because you get to see the “mind-blown” face after you tell them you made it). I definitely have plans to add a top version soon, but this time I’m thinking of using one of the new Atelier Brunette fabrics…can you just see it with all that drape?!

Jaime's Linen Gauze Wiksten

Of course, after making and wearing two Wiksten Shift shirts, I had to make the dress. I was lucky enough to snag some of this dreamy Elizabeth Suzann Linen Gauze before it sold out. This crinkly gauze is brilliant because you never notice how wrinkly your linen is getting when it starts out wrinkly. It is so comfortable and cute, I want to make at least one more for my summertime wardrobe. This a new staple for me for sure. There's only one version of the Wiksten Shift I haven't made so I should probably try out the short dress next!