As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, I always find myself reaching for pieces that feel cozy, rich in color, and easy to layer. This season, I was inspired to create something that not only celebrates the warmth of Fall but also feels comfortable and versatile. Enter: my latest make—a shirt dress with a stylish twist, perfect for cooler days and seasonal layering.

The Pattern

M8286 Misses’ and Women’s Dresses – Fabricville

I was looking for a shirt dress pattern with a little something extra—something that felt elevated, yet cozy enough for Fall. When I came across McCall’s 8286, the tie-front detail immediately caught my eye. It gives the classic shirt dress silhouette a soft, feminine touch that I thought would work beautifully for this season.

The Fabric

Rayon Twill Print – PANDORA – 007 – Wine – Fabricville

For this project, I knew I wanted a fabric that felt luxurious and warm but still had a beautiful drape. I chose this stunning wine-colored rayon twill print from Fabricville’s Fall/Winter 2025 collection. The rich tone is perfect for Autumn, and the fabric itself is incredibly soft with just the right amount of movement—making it an ideal match for the pattern.

The Making Of

Originally, I made the longer version of the dress, hoping for a dramatic Fall silhouette. However, once finished, I found that the length felt a little overwhelming on my petite frame. So, I shortened the hem by a few inches—and I’m so glad I did! It now feels more balanced and wearable. I also adjusted the shoulder seams slightly, raising them to minimize the drop-shoulder effect, which didn’t quite suit me.

These small modifications made a big difference, and the dress now feels just right.

he Final Look

I’m so happy with how this dress turned out! It’s incredibly comfortable and strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Whether I’m dressing it up with boots and accessories or keeping it casual for a day at the office, it’s quickly becoming a staple in my Fall wardrobe.

Plus, that warm wine color? It’s everything I love about this season. 🍷🍁

Happy Fall sewing to everyone !

Sara