I decided this year that I wanted to be more involved in the sewing community. Initially I wasn’t sure how I was going to do that, but in April a wonderful opportunity presented itself. I had been casually applying here and there for collaborations and pattern testing, not expecting to hear anything. And then I did! I was so excited to test the upcoming Amelie dress by Untitled Thoughts.

I really enjoyed the pattern testing process. It helped me to slow down and focus. I think some of my most accurate sewing to date was on this dress. But more than how much I liked sewing and reporting back, I felt like by testing a pattern I was contributing to the sewing community. Like I was giving back to the community that has inspired and encouraged me so much.

Out of My League

This pattern is labeled as intermediate, and I’m really in the adventurous or advanced beginner category. I was a bit out of my depth. Nothing about the construction is difficult, but fitting an open back bodice was definitely above my experience level. The pattern urges making a toile for this reason. While that may have helped, I’m just not experienced enough to diagnose and fix the complications that arise with unique details such as an open back.

By the time I had that moderately under control, I was a too bit mentally fatigued to do the quick easy adjustments that I often make – narrowing the shoulder, tightening up the arm scythe, the easy, little things. It’s wearable, but not as nice as it could be.

So the Amelie dress was a little out of league, but I’m crushing all the same. The Amelie dress solves a big summer wardrobe problem for me. I’m always wanting something that comes in at the waist, but in the warmer weather, I also want clothing that doesn’t touch me. The Amelie dress is perfect. The open back is nice and cool, the bodice isn’t too fitted, yet there’s some really nice shaping thanks to the curved waistband. The button down back is just darling. Plus the pockets are huge!

The Make Breakdown

Pattern: Untitled Thoughts Amelie
Fabric & Notions: 3.75 yards quilting cotton; Twelve 13mm buttons
Design Modifications: Eliminated center front seam and skirt corner extensions
Fit Alterations: Dart manipulation
Difficulty: Intermediate
Future Plans: No plans any time soon, simply because I don’t feel my wardrobe needs more than one open back dress at this time.

I loved the pattern testing process, and I can’t wait to do more. Coming up this month, I’m testing the size and cup expansion for the Chalk & Notch Orchid Midi. Stay tuned!

This pattern was given to me in exchange for private feedback.  All opinions are strictly my own.