I recently ordered this printed cotton fabric  for my latest project. I was also thinking of using a dress pattern, Vogue 1859. But I changed my mind to another Vogue, 2030, which I thought had the art teacher vibe to suit this fabric very well.

I had to be so careful cutting this out, as I wanted to line up the pattern across the front, at the side seams, and at the lower pocket seam as well. Not perfectly, but at least get the print balanced horizontally so it didn’t disturb the eye too much. I think it worked out quite well, the pattern feels regular across the whole piece.

I like the visual effect, rather like a smock. But this was a tough project overall!  It fits quite close so do be conscious of that if you choose to make this too. There were many fiddly bits that took a long time to complete, like the keyhole openings in the long sleeve version that I made, and attaching the collar was  also quite confusing! Thankfully I was able to “make it work”. The collar is a stand-up one, but if you don’t do up the top button, you can also fold it down like a regular shirt collar for another look.

This Fabricville exclusive cotton print was lovely to work with. It has both structure and give, and so held the shapes of this pattern really well, while allowing me to still move comfortably with the closer fit of the arms and bodice. It has a nice weight and pressed well, and I really love the fun colour combo here. While this pattern took more effort than I’d expected, the cheerful spring fabric made it worth it!