I like wearing wrap dresses. They make me feel feminine and put-together. My most recent wrap dress is the Lea Knit Dress from Style Arc patterns. After seeing some beautiful versions of this dress on PatternReview.com I wanted to give the pattern a try. I’m very glad I did because I love the shape and fit of this dress.
The result is not without some modifications. After reading a few reviews about this pattern. I widened the skirt facing to 3 inches. The facing is drafted at 1 inch. The extra width is just enough so when I’m walking the underside of the fabric does not show. I think it also gives the edge of the skirt a little more weight and helps it “fall” in place. The picture below shows the widened skirt facing with the tie belt application. I altered the placement of the ties because I widened the facing. I shortened the right tie to 22 inches because I did not want to wrap the ties all the way around my waist. My fabric (described as a techno knit) had enough body that I liked the sleek look of the front without the wrap-around ties. I also added 1 inch to the length of the dress and lengthened the sleeves to be 3/4 length.
The neckline is very low. I raised it about a 1/2 inch but plan on raising it a bit more for the next one. I have fashion tape in the pictures making sure that everything stays in place. I made the dress appropriate for work by wearing it with a black camisole.
Whenever I’m sewing a knit collar with a stand I always interface both pieces of the collar and stand. I like the extra body provided by the double layer of interfacing.
The pattern is very well drafted and even with its minimal directions comes together without any issues. For now I’ve found my new favorite wrap dress and am picturing many more dresses from this pattern in my closet.
I love this dress! Thank you for sharing your tips for when I make one. Sharon
Thank you Sharon.
Beautiful wrap dress!
Thank you Regina
Beautiful wrap dress. You wear it so well.
Thank you Jean.
You look so feminine and classy in this dress, and it shows off your great figure! It’s a great style for you, and I think your mods are perfect. I think the neckline is drafted too low, and when I looked at the pattern, I thought it wasn’t for me. Maybe I shall reconsider….. Thanks!
Thank you Becky.
Love your version, Lucy. This is my favorite wrap pattern ever. Thanks for reminding me that I need to make another!
Thank you Cissie. Your beautiful versions of this dress inspired me to give it a try.
Beautiful dress! Thanks for the warning about the neckline being so low…that would be my only hesitation on this pattern. You look amazing in it!
Thank you Margo.
I like your styling with the pearls, sheer black hose, and chunky sunglasses. Very classy.
Thank you Tamara.
Thank you Sharon.
Lovely wrap dress and appreciate your notes about the facing and the neckline.