A Sweet Back-to-School Dress

Holy cow! It’s the end of August already. As summer wraps up, I’ve been trying to be more prepared for the return of school—an occasion that always seems to catch me by surprise. I’ve started buying my daughter’s school supplies and began thinking through the plan for what this year’s childcare situation is going to look like. I have also found myself wondering whether it’s possible to make all my daughter’s clothing this year rather than doing the dreaded back-to-school shopping.

That says a few things about me. I really hate shopping for kids clothing and I’m somewhat unrealistic AND over confident. Doubtful this will come to fruition this year, but if it does I think I would make at least four of the sweet Emily Dress pattern from Children’s Corner that we have in the store.

Children's Corner Patters: Emily Dress

I was looking for a pattern that would be cool and comfortable and would hold up in the wash. I was apprehensive when my daughter chose the Emily pattern because, well, it looked hard to make . . . so many button holes and facing and (what?) piping on a (gulp!) peter pan collar. However, my daughter was really excited about the possibility of the twirling action. I didn’t want to disappoint.

I started by letting her choose the fabric. I was thrilled when she chose something that I had been eyeing for weeks—the aqua Anna Maria Horner Loominous collection. The colors and graphic pattern are right up my alley, plus it’s extremely light weight and soft.

Anna Maria Horner Loominous collection

I enjoyed sewing this pattern—the pleats were probably the highlight—a very satisfying effect. I admit to having had a few touch-and-go moments with the facing. However, the fit is right on. Upon completion of the dress, my daughter modeled for me for about one minute before she was off to get it nice and dirty.

Come and check out some of the other fun fabrics that would be suitable for this frock! I'm dying to try it in one of the beautiful Nani Iron double gauze prints or this Alison Glass double gauze. Or, for a more whimsical look, one of new prints from Rifle Paper Co.!