Jaime's Sorrento Linen Alder

I love the Alder Shirtdress. I've made a couple already and they get a lot of wear. I wanted to make one in a basic fabric that could be a wardrobe staple of a black dress and I am in ♥

Pattern: Alder Shirtdress by Grainline Studio View A
Fabric: Charcoal Sorrento Linen
Size Made: 4
Modifications: I turned the collar into a Mandarin collar

I've previously made View B of this pattern with a gathered skirt. I wanted to try out this streamlined view for a very basic dress. Like all Grainline patterns, the instructions are fabulous. Since I've made this before, it went without a hitch. I did decide to make one alteration to the collar. I don't love collars in general so I decided to do away with the collar and used the pattern as-is for the collar stand to make a Mandarin collar. I just finished the collar stand as if it were the collar - it was a super easy and adorable alteration to make. 

Let me take a minute to wax poetic about this fabric. This is an off-black 100% linen with a loose weave and soft fibers. Its a dream! It doesn't wrinkle as much as you might expect and it flows very nice. The weight is perfect for summer. 

I purchased some very special eye buttons online and used these for my dress. They are a subtle detail that I love - the type of thing that is what making my own clothes is all about for me. 

I've worn this dress a lot already. It looks great with an over-sized top layered over it or just on its own. I could dress is up with leggings and shoes or just wear it with slip ons for a more casual look.This is a great staple for my wardrobe that was missing - a basic black dress!