I first discovered Tamara Kate‘s fabric last winter when I stumbled upon her Gem print – it’s an all-time favorite of mine, and I used a little bit to make a Roller Skate dress for Lila. Not long after, I received a very sweet email from Tamara saying she’d seen the dress and asking if I’d like to sew something from her new line, Origami Oasis.
I was immediately drawn to Mountain & Valley – I love a good colorful, geometric print like this, and Tamara designs them so well.
The diamonds reminded me of kites, so I picked Dana’s “kite dress”, which is the A-line version of her First Day Dress pattern.
The pattern was a new one for me – I’ve had my eye on it for awhile and talked myself out of buying it several times (how many patterns can one girl need??), but I’m glad I finally caved! It went together quickly and easily. There were a couple places (pinning the sleeves and sewing the back keyhole opening) where I longed for some markings to make things just a little more precise – years of Oliver + S sewing is certainly to blame/thank for this. But I really liked the pattern overall – the PDF went together perfectly, which always makes me happy. And the directions were thorough and well organized – there are several different options to choose from (blouse length, swing dress, peplum top, faux placket) but it’s easy to follow along and find what you’re looking for. The A-line version is fully lined, and the lining is hidden in the hem, which is a nice touch.
Lila’s body measurements matched up with a size 4, but when I looked at the finished measurement chart and compared it to a few other patterns that fit her well, I realized the 4 would’ve been too small on her. I made a 5 instead, which fits well, although on the slim side – I’d advise sizing up with this one if you’re in doubt. Also, the A-line version is designed to hit way above the knee, but it’s very easy to add length to the bottom if you want it longer – I lengthened the size 5 to a size 9 here.
The lining is Michael Miller Cotton Couture in some shade of pink that I can’t recall. Obviously there was no shortage of lining colors to choose from to go with this print!
You can check out Tamara’s blog for more Origami Oasis inspiration – there’s even a fabulous Jump Rope dress in the mix, and you know I’m partial to the Jump Rope dress 🙂
Happy Friday!
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[…] accent for a gazillion projects, and so I am delighted to see it shine on its own here. Hop on over here and have a closer look at all the details (it is even lined in a gorgeous hot pink from Michael […]
What a gorgeous dress! I am so tempted to buy that fabric right now and make one for my daughter – she’s about the same age as Lila. I love reading your blog – it was the first sewing blog I ever followed, and still so inspiring. Thank you! 🙂
I knew that whatever you did with the fabric would be lovely, Gail, and sure enough… I adore all the detailing and simplicity of your choice, and especially the pink lining! Thanks for inspiring us all!
A beautiful dress! Love your choice of fabric and pattern…
It’s just adorable- you have the best taste in fabric! I will have to give this variation a shot. There’s something really cute about those capped sleeves with the A-line. Lila is such a beauty!
Perfect fabric and pattern choices (as usual!) – now I want both the fabric and the pattern 🙂
I love this so much Gail.
Oh it turned out great – nice work on the pink lining. I love the shape of the sleeves on this dress. And woah, a 9 length! Lila, you’ve grown! 😉
You always make those patterned cottons look so appealing for a girl’s dress. Another beauty. Well done
I always love seeing the fabric combinations you choose! Very unique and beautiful!