For my fall sewing project, I wanted to go back to a timeless piece: a classic shirtdress. I’ve always been drawn to this kind of design. There’s something nostalgic about it, a hint of that effortless elegance women used to have, the defined waist, the skirt that moves gracefully with every step.
This type of dress has stood the test of time without ever going out of style. In the 1950s, it was often made of cotton or poplin, sometimes paired with a matching belt. Even today, it remains a classic choice, structured, feminine, and comfortable.
The Pattern: Butterick B6702
I chose the Butterick B6702 pattern, first released in 2019, and it has truly stood the test of time. The fitted bodice and flared princess-seamed skirt create a flattering shape with clean lines and a precise cut, exactly what you want in a classic shirtdress.
I went with the three-quarter sleeve version, which is already included in the pattern. It’s a length I particularly love because it highlights the wrists, lightens the overall look, and works perfectly with the bracelets I often wear.
Although the pattern is rated “easy,” it still requires some patience: cutting, assembling, adjusting the pieces, and finishing the collar and button bands by hand. It’s not a one-evening project, but definitely a satisfying one.
The Fabric: Peachskin Faille with Tiny Leopards
At first, I thought about using a fine corduroy since it’s so popular this season. But I quickly realized it might be too heavy for this style. The skirt wouldn’t drape the way I wanted, and the dress could feel stiffer than I’d like.
So I changed my plan and chose a peachskin faille printed with tiny golden leopards on a black background. The fabric is soft, supple, and has a nice fluid drape. The print, made up of full stylized leopards rather than the usual spotted pattern, adds a playful yet elegant touch. Each little feline acts like a small graphic detail that catches the eye just enough, and I love that balance of chic and bold.
A Few Sewing Challenges
Maybe it’s because I hadn’t sewn in a while, but cutting out this project took longer than expected. There are twelve pattern pieces in total, not counting the interfacing, so yes, you need space and a bit of organization.
I chose a firmer interfacing than usual, which gives the collar and button placket a crisp, tailored finish. I really like the structured result. It feels refined, just right for this kind of dress. My gold buttons even echo the little golden leopards on the fabric, a small detail that ties everything together beautifully.
Of course, not everything went smoothly. The front bands turned out slightly shorter than the bodice and skirt pieces, so I had to add about an inch and a half to each one by inserting a small strip of fabric. Luckily, it blends perfectly with the print.
Then came the sleeve struggle. One of them just wouldn’t sit right at the shoulder. After several rounds of unpicking and re-stitching, I finally got a decent fit. That’s sewing for you: patience, a few sighs, and then the reward of getting it just right.
The Final Look
This dress can be styled in many ways: buttoned up for a retro-inspired look, or open at the collar for something more relaxed. I plan to wear it with a faux-fur clutch I found during my last trip to Italy, and depending on the occasion, either tall boots or classic pumps.
A dress that’s both classic and confident, inspired by the past but perfectly current. Exactly what I wanted to wear this fall.
by Claudine Gauvin 
