Are Wrap Dresses REALLY flattering on EVERY body type? Reggie Wrap Pattern Review
Вставка
- Опубліковано 11 лют 2025
- Join me as I walk you through my experience making the Reggie Wrap Dress from Seamwork Patterns - I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comment section!
PATTERNS MENTIONED:
Reggie Wrap Dress - Seamwork - www.seamwork.c...
My current measurements for reference:
B: 48.5”
W: 43”
H: 50”
Height: 5’1”
Sewing Machine: Brother CS5055PRW amzn.to/3D41NLf (affiliate link)
Serger: Husqvarna Viking Amber Air S400 & Janome MOD-8933
This video contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, I'll receive a commission. I only promote those products that I have investigated and truly feel deliver value to you.
Amazon Favorites (affiliate link): amzn.to/3BhH4CT
Follow me on Instagram! This is my NEW un-hacked account! / therealmichellesewsagain
Follow me on Pinterest! / _saved
Take a peek at my stashes in Trello -
PATTERNS: trello.com/b/S...
FABRIC: trello.com/b/N...
DYE: trello.com/b/F...
Reach out to me via email: cmwh1966@gmail.com
Oh how perfect is that fabric on you, I just love it. I prefer a grown on sleeve for comfort too, but seriously that dress looks lovely on you and now that it fits you so well, it’s very flattering. 🌹❤️
PS if it’s a pain to get into, that would be the death knell for me. If I couldn’t workout a way to rejig it, I’d donate it or it would just hang around collecting dust. Such a pity.
Thank you so much! I might have been given a couple of suggestions for how to work it out so that I can get dressed on my own - we'll see if they work out 😊
🤞for you.
I actually love this one you, it looks comfortable? What a find that beautiful sheet was! How good are sewing friends 💕💕💕 have a fab week Michelle x
It really is comfortable! That and the beautiful fabric are the reasons I will continue to wear this despite it not being the most flattering dress for my body shape. I hope you have a great week as well!! Thanks ;)
Totally agree with body shapes, me and my daughter have the same measurements but believe you me not all outfits suit both of us. The wrap dress looks great on you and well done with the alterations.
Thanks so much Sandra!
I really like the dress and I think it does flatter you. The fabric and length are both great and I’m amazed at how well you made the sleeves fit. I didn’t quite understand that alteration you described but I have large upper arms and always struggle with how to alter sleeves. I think I blew coffee out my nose when you said you have T Rex arms - lol! I have short arms too, so I understand not being able to reach stuff 🤨. I am anxious to see the Elodie on you.
LOL - sorry I made you snort coffee! 😂. I realized when I watched it back that I didn't explain that alteration very well. Basically I slit the pattern piece down the middle from the sleeve cap to the hem. Then, at the hem, I separated the inside edges of the split by 2" so it created a triangle shape of emptiness from top to bottom in the middle (does that make sense?). Then I filled the gap in with paper. And finally, I straightened the hem out again from side to side so that the sides were even with the middle. And for the cuff, I just added 2" to the end because it's just a rectangle. I hope that helps?!?!
I really love the way it turned out in the end! It's nice when something can be saved and made good. I really appreciate your sharing the details with all of us. Like you said, we would never have known if you hadn't told us and now we know a secret trick should we need to do the same. I've never made a wrap dress but I can see needing to make some kind of a "save" like this whenever I do get around to making one. Hope you have a great week!
Thanks so much Angela! I hope you have a great week as well 😊
I really like it, the adjusted fit is perfect. I'm inspired to make this for sure. And old sheets as fabric (as well as curtains) is so rewarding to find.
I hope you like it after you make yours! Thanks so much for watching 😊
I think your and Jen’s work on the dress was a miraculous save. After that first picture I didn’t think anything short of recutting would work. I, too, have large boobs and age has not been my friend. I laughingly say I now wear a 36 Long bra. You might take a look at the Roseclair by Cashmerette. I never like gathers just under my bust because they just never feel or look flattering. The Roseclair bodice is a flatter fit as it transitions to the skirt. It is also designed for plus size figures and the full busts are included in the pattern. They have two sets of sizes and the 12-32 size range would be for larger busts. I have learned a great deal from Jenny about fitting big boobs and plus sizes and enjoyed her book as well.
Some people in the comments of the first video had me scared that it WOULD take a complete redo to fix! I couldn't believe our simple fix did the trick! I have the Roseclair pattern. That will be my next try I think if the ELodie doesn't work. I think I'm more hesitant to try the Roseclair than the Elodie because the only pattern I've ever tried from Cashmerette technically fit me but I hated the way it looked on me. But I should give them another try for sure!
Hi Michelle, I'm listenibg as I'm cleaning up my room. 😊😊
The "Proper" way worked.❤🎉❤
Thanks Zelda 😊
Prance and twirl - it's the only gauge how a dress feels!❤❤
I recently made a pair of dungarees out of a viscose/linen blend fabric that was initially meant to be the toile, until I put them on and instinctively twirled for the first time possibly ever but at least in anything I’ve ever made and it felt wonderful!
@rhonddalesley I love watching the Seamstress at the Cottage. Katinka reminds me to grab the joy. She is such a humble, gentle soul. She gives some of the most fabulous twirls of pure joy!
You are so right Debbie! 💕
@rhonddalesley - yay! what a wonderful story! 😊
Love the fabric. The pattern and colors are so cute on your new dress. It looks cute on you. I think you could still go down a size on the top. I would try the pattern.
If I made it again I would definitely size down. I don't think I'll be making it again though - I don't love it enough to invest more time in it. I'll keep wearing this one though - it's really comfy and I love the fabric 💕😊
I just love watching you, Michelle, because I can so understand the issues you mention. I have had some trouble with seamwork patterns too. I have the Tocara dress which I love and while I agree that most patterns cannot be worn by all body types, this is one that seems to work, however the sleeves are way too tight straight from the pattern, but it is an easy fix on that one. I have also made the Georgia and that is far too big. I spend ages deliberating over finished measurements on patterns to see if things will be right for me, like you I don’t want tight and fitted but there’s is comfy and just plain too big! It has made me slightly nervous of the other seamwork patterns I have and I hear everyone shouting “toile” at me, but time and finances don’t really lend themselves to making stuff twice!
I do like this dress on you and it looks comfy and cool but I would have same problems getting it on ( I don’t make things with a back zip for same reason and as for button back tops…) but, if you don’t feel flattered by it’s shape then that’s the answer, we have to feel good to look good, I’m very sure of that. Also I know this is going to be unpopular but I feel I can say this to you, they mostly show garments on slim people and I’m sorry but all things look good if you are slim and it can be hard to translate that to my little round shape! ( I’m making this comment about me and my thoughts not anyone else’s body!) This is years of brain washing from fashion industry, I know and I m trying to retrain my mind but it’s hard. Some companies are getting better and it really helps if they use different shape models, but what’s in our minds is very powerful. This is not a personal comment on you or anyone else just what happens in my head.
I've discovered that all of my Seamwork patterns are too big for the size chart - my lesson is to make sure to use the finished garment measurements rather than the size chart going forward. I have some great patterns (style wise anyway) from Seamwork that I still want to make. Seamwork does have some plus size models but they are just barely plus, so you're right, it doesn't really show us what the garments will look like on us. But I'm so used to that. I'm also trying to retrain my brain but we've had decades of brain washing, haven't we?? Thanks Janey 😊
Cute dress. I would just put it on and off over my head. I’m into the Elodie too. It will be nice to see your make. I have the Reggie dress pattern. Seeing how nice it looks on you I moved it up on my To Make list.
I hadn't thought of putting it all together BEFORE putting it on and slipping it over my. head - based on the loose fit that might actually work - you're brilliant! Thanks :). I hope you like the Reggie!!
The dress looked better on you in the twirls. The back view is lovely and the diagonal line from your beautiful handbag helps draw the eye. I tend to agree with your opinion on wrap dresses most do not flatter my figure. However I made the Millicent dress from Style Arc and I loved it and wore it to our friends wedding. Interested in how the next one goes I’ve looked at it a few times.
Thanks for sharing about the Millicent! I have several wrap dress patterns in my library. If I exhaust those without success maybe I'll give that one a try! Thanks Jacqui!!
Yes, you made that work and it looks so cute on you as the fabric is wonderful💕. I hope you do wear it and I think you will learn to love it as I'm sure you are going to get a lot of comments. I don't believe any style suits every body shape either, how could they?! Thanks for such a great review and persevering 👏🏼🩷🩷xx
Thanks so much Carole! I have been given a couple of suggestions on how to make adjustments so I don't have to get help to get into the dress - that could make a difference in how often I wear it!
I love your version! Personally I’m always a bit nervous of wraps - I’ve had versions that open when you sit down (!) and/ or can feel a bit bulky on the waist. This pattern looks quite neat so I’m thinking I may give it a go! Thank you!😊
I don't love the style on me. I don't think it flatters me. But it was good to try a few different types of wraps! Let me know if you end up making it!
Michelle, That dress looks great on you! The colors look great with your complexion and I, personally, really like the length. Great job and thanks for sharing!
Thank you so much Katherine!!
Michele I like the dress on you. When you styled it, it did look good. It's a fabulous colour and that alone makes it look cute. I do know what you mean about reaching round to tie it. Maybe put poppers on and a separate belt made to look like it's attached. Just an idea. ❤
Thanks for the suggestion Anne! 😍😂😍
I like this one on you very much. It is very flattering in color, shape and everything.
Thank you!
Great save. You two did a great job. Also love the fabric on you. I never make wrap dresses. Just don't have the love that everyone else has. Maybe because I am big busted and I always try to hide them.
I hear you on trying to hide them - I just don't think they fade into the background like we want them to no matter how hard we try 🤣
Hi Michelle, I think your dress is very pretty. I definitely would keep it and wear it..
Thank you Cindy!
Hi Michelle. I so agree with you; I would put the statement that a pattern 'looks good on all body types' with the other lies such as 'one size fits all.' As your review also illustrates, the comfort factor with whether you can actually get into a garment without assistance or stand to wear it for more than a few photos is really important. That's one of the things I like about your reviews of patterns -- they include things we don't often think about when we are selecting a pattern to try.
I also love grown on sleeves but can't figure out how to modify them for forward shoulders, high rounded back, and a bunch of other fit problems. Too bad since I love the style of them. The Elodie dress looks great and I'm glad you're going to try it. May it be a joyous sew, Antonia
One size fits all - what a joke! So demeaning. I'm so glad you find my reviews helpful - that means a lot to me! I found this tutorial from Whitney at TomKat Stitchery on making an adjustment for a high round back. It looks simple and like the same method could be used for a grown on sleeve?? Let me know your thoughts. ua-cam.com/video/w9g9P0_aDjY/v-deo.html I am beginning to think this might be an issue for me as well. But I'm focusing on perfecting one adjustment at a time LOL and the FBA is first on my list!
Love it! Looks so much better after your adjustments. So glad you were able to salvage it and get wear out of that fabulous fabric! I think I agree with your overall assessment of the dress. It's lovely and looks very comfortable and on trend, however, there are probably other types of wrap dresses that would do more for you than this particular one. I really love the idea of wrap garments, but I am yet to find one that I feel like myself in and that really suits me. So, I guess the jury's still out on the question of 'wrap dresses/tops flatter everyone'... Very glad to hear you're going to try the Elodie and not give up wraps altogether. Perhaps I need to keep trying too. x
Thanks so much Faith! I'm finding that lots of people agree about the "wrap dresses may NOT be flattering for everyone" comment! It's so interesting - I thought I would be on an island with that one 🤣. I have a few more in my stash - I'm going to keep trying!
Yes I have been known to prance myself. It happens when I am wearing something I really love. Here is an idea for your dress so you don't need help putting it on. Stitch all the fastening points down and then you can just put it on over your head. As loose fitting as it is there should not be a problem getting it on.
That's a fabulous idea!! I'm totally going to try that!!! Thank you so much 😍😍😍
I see what you mean and even though you sewed the fix on that FABULOUS machine 😂 I think there might be a different wrap dress that would be better suited. You know, I kept thinking that if the side with the button had a tie instead that went thru an opening in the seam and then wrapped around to tie, it might fit even better again. I wouldn't fool with it though - you don't like it enough to fiddle with it anymore. On to the next one! xoxoxoxoxoxoxox
That's a great suggestion Jen! But yeah, I don't love this enough to keep going with it. It'll be fun to wear but it's time to try a different style! THANK YOU SO MUCH for your help - I couldn't have done it without you!! 💕💕💕
Carol from Omaha:
Love your dress on you, Michelle -the style, the fit, the colors! Great rescue.
I can't see the problems that you addressed, so hopefully you will gain confidence as you wear it. 😊
Oh you're so sweet Carol! Thank you so much for your kind words!!
Definitely a prancer myself 😂 I like the dress on you but I know the wildwood suits you fabulously well- you got the fit brilliantly on that. ❤ I know I downloaded it prior to cancelling my Seamwork subscription… I do like a wrap and might investigate it further- can’t recommend the cashmerette Roseclair enough though!
I have the Roseclair - I'll probably try it out after the Elodie! 😍
It’s nice. Sew it shut and wear it a a pop-over faux wrap dress. The neckline doesn’t gape like some wraps do on some people. So that part is drafted properly for your size. I like the dresses without waists a little better on you. They can be lengthening with the seams vertical.
A few people have made the same suggestion and I think it's brilliant! I'm definitely going to do that to make it so much easier to wear. Thanks so much!
Perfect. Looks lovely on you.
Thank you!
I think it looks great on you. I love the fabric too.
Oh thank you!
I think the dress looks good on you. Great save to improve the fit. I would wear it at home and to someplace like the grocery store but not out to dinner. It looks very comfortable. I like that the wrap neckline doesn't mold to your bust. I might give this pattern a try?
It's a great casual dress, definitely good for running around town! I modeled it with heels but, to be honest, I will never wear those shoes with the dress haha! I'll probably wear flip flops or sneakers! I hope you like the pattern if you make it!
Hi Michelle, I do like your Reggie Dress 😊 And I have made the Reggie Dress. I think mostly because I had that same fabric that's pictured. Now that I've finally practiced a SBA on one of their other patterns, I might redo the front pieces on this one. I feel a little odd in what came out looking (in a huge gingham) a little girlish for someone of my years. I'm glad to see your version !! as it shows a whole different look for it and I may just start over. The shoulder seams seem to be hitting right at the little shoulder bone point, so I think I've got the right size. Whew. Happy sewing!
Oh I bet the gingham is adorable! You should wear it!!
I have not made the Reggie yet. I am inspired to make it after seeing your dress. However, I will probably just make a top. I don’t wear dresses very often. I like the length of your dress.
Thanks so much! I'm so happy to have inspired you! I hope you enjoy your Reggie!! Don't forget to measure those sleeve pieces!
You are beautiful as always... that fabric is very you... the styling is very pretty but no matter how pretty if you don't feel fabulous then it's not right... I love wrap dresses in principal but they aren't for some of us... I only wear maxis (my legs aren't pretty) or it needs to be a top... I prefer my wraps snugger n in knit for some give... I use a small elastic hair tie for the inside loop n with a knit I can fasten the waist inside n out (short arms too) n then pull up the bodice... great save with your alterations... 😊
Thanks for the recommendations Cindy! I have a feeling a tighter fitting wrap bodice will suit me better as well. I'll keep trying - maybe I'll find "the one" 😊.
First, I wholly agree with your statement that not all wrap dresses flatter all folks.
Second, I think if you added an underbust dart to the side darts you have and took a bit more out of the waist, you might find it more flattering. Also, I have a bust which is larger than most any pattern considers and I find that a band between the bodice and skirt fits better. I think that might be an option for you to look into.
Third, I agree that the dress does look like it would be wonderfully useful as is. You found great solutions to the issues that you had and I think you did a fantastic job with a problemsome pattern and, perhaps, concept for what fits.
Thanks so much for the suggestions! I'm not going to mess with this dress anymore but I'll keep those ideas in mind. I appreciate your input 😊💕
Apparently you need a dresser when you wear that dress, you know that's the person who works back stage on a play and helps people with their costumes. I don't have a dresser either, so I would probably never wear a dress I couldn't get into by myself. The last wrap dress I made was out of a lycra knit fabric, so it was much more fitted on the top. I didn't really care for the picture on the pattern so I would not have been drawn to that pattern. I'm glad Jen was able to help you get it to fit better, and I think it looks nice on you; but I agree with you, there can't be a pattern that looks good on everyone. Thanks for sharing. I'm still trying to get a woven blouse to fit properly, maybe I need to go visit Jen. 😀
Ha! YES I need a dresser LOL. But I don't WANT a dresser 🤣. Jen could definitely help you out! She's a wiz!
Love the dress you did such a good job i myself have to slash and cut for sleeves for a comfortable fit thanks for the video
I have only had to do that a couple of times. Generally when I make my size in a garment, the sleeve fits. But it's definitely something I'll be on the lookout for now!! Thanks Robyn 💕
I think it looks great on you but of course it’s your point of view that matters! It reminds me of McCall’s M7969 which is a faux wrap and I see someone else suggested sewing closed to fit over your head which I would second. Also I love your wall!❤
Thanks! Yes, sewing it closed is definitely the right answer!
I just came across your channel, love the honesty of your review. I think it looks really nice in the adjusted version but it sounds like quite a pain and I’m impressed that you carried on. I am a similar shape to you on top and I find sleeves to be very random - I have small arms relative to my bust size but some patterns still come up tight on the sleeve which I don’t understand. I’ve done very basic pattern making so I now have a sleeve sloped/base pattern which I use to check that the sleeve on a pattern will actually work!
I have made the Closet Core Charlie kaftan and I absolutely love it. It’s similar in shape to the Elodie but without the wrap. I had to adjust the kimono sleeve width and narrow it slightly as it exposed my bra when I lifted my arm. I did a little bit of work on the V as it was too low but overall it’s an incredibly flattering shape on me - it has spaghetti ties to bring it in. Looking at Elodie I would worry that the kimono wrap is going to be quite dressing-gown on me, particularly with kimono sleeves. I guess it depends on the drapiness of the fabric too.Not sure if there are any darts. I do love the idea of a wrap dress so Interested to see how it works if you do make it!
Hi Alison - I'm so glad you've found my channel and find it helpful! Actually, adjusting the dress wasn't as big of a pain as I thought it was going to be! Surprisingly haha! I'm learning that adjusting patterns is just going to be my future. There are no pattern companies whose block fits my shape. Oh well, as long as I go into it knowing that it will be less of a headache I guess.
I made the Charlie recently and I really like it. I made View A, the short version with the pleats. I think the fabric will definitely make the difference on the Elodie - I'll keep you posted!!
Amazing save, Michelle! I love, love, love the length! 💗
Thanks Andra!!! 💕
Great save! It sounds like your sleeve adjustment is almost a true bicep adjustment. I like set in sleeves on you better than grown on
You aren't the first person to say that about set in sleeves. I understand - but grown on are just so much more comfortable! 🤣. Thanks so much Pamela!
It looks good 👍
Thanks for sharing all the alterations.. especially the arm one.. I always forget to check this measurement 🙄.. I've ended up with a few sleeves that were snug.. I like the length.. not all of us are "above the knee" people...the dress does look good on you.. but I have to agree its a nice dress not a "wow" dress.. looking forward to the next wrap make.. I haven't attempted one yet.. also not sure if it will suit me
Thanks Michelle - this dress taught me that I need to measure the sleeve pattern piece before cutting out my fabric. Most patterns don't share the measurements in the size chart. I will definitely keep trying wrap dresses to find one that suits me and I'll keep you posted 😊
Hi Michelle. Well I can see you and Jen having a fine ole time figuring out how to make this dress yours. I have two off the top of my head thoughts. One, I wonder how a rayon fabric would behave for you (yes nipping in that waist did make a difference, didn't it?) and two, don't hate me, but my thought was I wonder how shoulder pads would look. Don't excommunicate me, but try one on one shoulder and not the other to compare. I enjoy you so much, but saying what I was thinkin'. Love, love, love the color.
Haha - shoulder pads! Take me right back to my teenage years in the 80's 😊. No way would I excommunicate you for making a suggestion on how to make an improvement! I don't think I'll try it but I appreciate the thought 💕
I think that the wrap dress is technically universally flattering because there are so many different styles that everyone can find one that works for them. not that every person looks good in any old wrap dress--you have to find the right one for you. that's my opinion anyway. i wonder if you would like the Style Arc Hope Extension that I made--it actually looks quite similar to the Reggie but it's a faux wrap that pulls over your head so it's much easier to get in and out of. love the fabric on you and your new bag is fab!
I did buy the Hope extension pack BECAUSE of how cute that faux wrap looked on you! I'm going to keep trying different styles of wrap dresses. I'm hoping to find the elusive "one" 🤣. The Reggie actually has a Member only option that makes a faux wrap as well. But I plan on giving the Hope a try at some point in the near future. Plus - you make a great point - the faux wrap will be MUCH easier to get in and out of! Thanks Sara - you were my inspiration for styling with a bag 💕
I don’t love wrap dresses on me. I am big busted, but extremely short waisted. Unless it’s a faux wrap, I will never make a real one.
Many years ago a colleague wore a wrap skirt to accompany her choir at a city wide concert. She had the opening turned to the back and when she sat down at the piano,facing her choir the audience discovered that she was wearing underwear. 😂 I don’t wear anything that wraps other than a bathrobe. It’s going to take a while to adjust to your “ new” figure and find silhouettes that you like. Love the fabric. Love your honesty.
Hi Michelle, I made this dress too but I couldn't make it work for me though I was newly back into sewing at the time. I also made another Seamwork dress (Georgia I think) around the same time. Both of them were huge. I think I could make them work for me now but it would be nice if the sizing information given was actually accurate so you didn't have to muck around with the fit so much. I agree, no one shilloette can work for EVERYONE. And the classic "princess seams are so flattering on a larger body".... nup, not this body 😁 You did great on the fit changes, amazing job.
I'm not a fan of princess seams either, although I did make the True Bias Shelby and I think that looked good. Again, not my favorite but definitely acceptable! As for Seamwork - this was my 3rd woven garment from them (I have quite a lot of patterns from when I was a member) that I've made and they have all been too big when I made according to my size chart. My lesson is to start using the finished garment size chart to determine the size to sew. I still love all the patterns I've downloaded and want to make more - I just don't want to have to fiddle quite so much LOL!
I love it on you! I can understand it not being your favorite because it's too hard to get on and off.
If you sew with knit Fabrics I'd like to recommend Tres Belle by Ellie and Mac. It has full circle half circle and gathered circle options for the skirt and it is a mock wrap.
Also they show the pattern made on multiple body types.
Thanks for the recommendation - I don't sew a lot with knits because they show lumps and bumps a lot more than wovens do. I know a lot of people loves knits but I generally only like them for t-shirts and t-shirt dresses. Maybe I'm missing out though and should give it a try 😊
Glad you two came up with a solution for the dress! It looks great 😊
Thank you! 😊
You did such a great job with the fit changes. Really like the dress.
Thank you!
The dress looks beautiful om you(after the alterations)and I agree,❤ the fabric definitely is ❤you. Thank you for sharing everything abut dress. By the way, While I love wrap dresses I do mot like the tirs amd will use buttins imswtead. Maybe try that next time.if you decide to make this dress again 😂in the future😊
Thanks for the suggestion! I appreciate it 😊
@@MichelleSewsAgain my spelling sucks but I hope you understood what I was trying to say. To me, ties are a nuisance, they come lose and add bulk where as hooks (inside) and buttons do not have that issue but maintain the coverage with a sleeker look, in my humble opinion.
Yes love the improvements you did on the dress. I loved the fabric- so you and was hoping you would re make it to fit you better. I do like that style on you. To me you look better when your bodice is more fitted and skirt is more loose. I too have a similar shape as you but am taller so love to see the difference styles you make.👏👏
Thanks Rosemary! It's definitely a better fit than the straight pattern.
Hi Michelle, I think that style is very cute on you. I love the fabric, neckline and length on you. I've never made a wrap dress but I'd now like to try. Thanks for the video!
Oh wow - that's a huge compliment that I've inspired you to try making a wrap dress! If you find a pattern you like please let me know!!
Nice sheet
Hi Michelle. I totally agree with everything you’ve said about this dress There is no one dress that looks good on everyone. Wrap dresses look awful on me. I would never even buy the pattern. Looking forward to seeing the Elodie
Thanks so much!!!
Looks good from the back as well
Thanks 😊
Oh my word!!! What a save! The first version did not fit you anywhere. So glad you can wear it now. I think it will be great for hot days. I love he print on you. Why feel fine when you can feel your best.
Well, I don't feel my BEST in this dress, but I do feel better in the revised version than I did the original 😊. Thanks Christine!
What a save on that dress! You and Jen rock! I don't think I'll be making one. I love dresses but just don't wear them much. I love those colors on you.
Thanks cuz! No need to make the dress if you don't wear them! If I find a wrap dress I love though - I may end up making just a top out of it ....🤷♀️
It looks great!
Thanks Carmen 💕
I think its real cute, but I've found with myself, if I struggled a lot w a garment, I take that memory with me into the wearing. I'll feel uncomfortable in it as though all the steps it went through are obvious to everybody. So, yes your final looks good but I wouldn't wear something I had to get help to put on either. So, my question is are you a seamwork member. Do you think it is worth it? I am, and I love the community there but have only toiled one pattern and it was a disaster. I feel like I should try something else before I make up my mind but I'm beginning to get the vibe that they don't understand their curvy sewists and their bodies. I am definitely taking the Reggie out of my library. Cashmerette and closet core both have wraps if I'm dying to try one. So what do you think about seamwork in general?
I did have a membership to Seamwork. I've made several of their patterns. I love the Lito t-shirt dress, the Finn t-shirt, the Marlow shirt (another that I had to size down on). I ended up canceling my membership because they just weren't releasing patterns that I loved anymore. I still have 23 credits to use and I haven't been a member for a couple of years now. I never used the community at Seamwork. UA-cam and Instagram are enough to keep me busy! Overall, their knit patterns seem to fit me without adjustments but the wovens that I've made have all been too big out of the gate. I love the patterns that I have downloaded and want to make them all, I just need to make sure I rely more on the finished measurements than the size chart. I think it's a good membership to have for 1 year. I had it for 2 years which was too long for the number of patterns I wanted from them. I also have both the Cashmerette and the Closet Core wrap dress patterns. I'm going to try the Closet Core one next and see how I like that one. I will try the Cashmerette next if the Closet Core doesn't work.
@@MichelleSewsAgain thanks! I've got the Marlow in my library too. You're reply helps a lot. The elodie has been really popular. I think you will have good luck with it.
Michelle, the dress looks nice on you. Maybe you can wear it on date night with hubby since he has to help you in and out of it. I hope you get enough wear out of it to make it worth your effort. The colors look so good on you and the design is so retro cool.
I will get wear out of it - don't worry 😊. Thanks Kay!
Hi I made this dress about a year ago, I had the same problem. My adjustment was with the skirt. I took off the ties and took away one of the mirrored panels and sewed up seams so I didn’t have to tie the wrap hoping this makes sense but otherwise I love my new dress.😊
That makes sense - sounds like a great save! Thanks for sharing 😀
Wow, 💯 % better 👍
The corrections you made, made all the difference. I do like the length, and the sleeves look better too👍. On camera you could tell they were too tight. Yikes 😬.
Super cute 👍👍
Thanks so much!
Hi Michelle, I think your dress looks lovely. No dress with a gathered skirt can be flattering on 'our' figure types. But in saying that I think they can still look pretty and fun as yours does. Great fix
Thanks Ann!! 💕
It looks SO much better with your adjustments! I love the colors it includes. I seldom have much luck with wrap dresses because my body is more of a pear shape. I always need a pin/snap at the bodice crossover. I’m also a bit short waisted & have longer legs. I’m about 5’4-5” tall. Most wrap dresses seem to be made for a large bust/flat hips (inverted triangle?) body style. That’s definitely not me.😂 Congratulations on improving the fit of your dress. That’s lots of extra work!
Thank you so much!
I have a similar experience with wrap shirts/dresses. I have not made the Reggie Wrap dress, but I made the Willow top from Love Notions and a faux wrap New Look pattern, and just am not sold. I know everyone says wrap dresses are THE style for a large bust, but I feel like the wrap just makes everything on top (back, shoulders and upper arms, included) appear even larger than they are. Maybe I'm not sizing it right, but I don't like clothing tight on my tummy, so to get the wrap part close to right, the tummy part ends up very large and then the fabric bunches unflatteringly. I have one more wrap project that I'm going to do in the next couple of weeks, and then I think I'm going to give up. There are some nice patterns where the wrap part is on the back, and I'm wondering if that might be better. I'm also doing one of those in the next couple of weeks, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed! All that being said, (🙃) I think your save of the dress is absolute magic! The fabric is so fun and your after is so much better from where you started out. Your tenacity really paid off!
What's the next wrap project you are going to try? I hope you let me know if you find one you like! Thanks so much!!
@@MichelleSewsAgain I'm going to do Simplicity 9739 which is the Jiffy wrap dress. It's not quite the same because it isn't a v-front, but I'm still concerned about the probable bunching around the waist. I wouldn't do it, except I'd already cut it out. Granted, it's a huge rectangle, so maybe I'll just give it a pass, anyway. Ugh, decisions...
Gosh, between your friend and yourself, you managed to turn this dress from a poorly fitting dress to a dress that looks pretty nice. I am quite tall, have a similar body shape to you and look dreadful in wrap dresses. One wrap dress I am tempted to try is the Roseclair dress by Cashmerette as this doesn’t have gathers below the bust. I suspect this could look fabulous on you. Thank you for your most enjoyable videos 🌸
I have the Roseclair as well. I'm going to start with the Elodie because I have made a couple of Closet Core patterns that I've enjoyed. I've only made one Cashmerette and didn't love the fit on me. So I'm more hesitant on the Cashmerette. It seems that every busty sewist is in love with the Concord Tee and I just didn't like it on me. But maybe this dress will be different, we'll see!
Good save!
Thank you!
Great fit now Michelle. Well done. It looks lovely styled upX
Thank you 😊
I do think the dress flatters you. And the length is perfect for your weight and height (spoken from a 5'2" plus girl). BTW, love that wall.
Thanks so much! The wall is my favorite - it makes me happy every time I walk in this room 😊
Wow girl. What a difference and a fairly easy fix. I do think it’s flattering. Seems a nice airy dress and great for Florida. And I love the fabric. But, if you don’t feel great in it don’t make it again. I do prefer you in set in sleeves. I’d also rarely wear a dress I needed help to get into? 😊
I couldn't believe how easy the fix was! People in the comments of the shorts video had me scared that it was going to be COMPLICATED. And, to be fair, doing it the "proper" way probably would require more steps. But I got to a good end result, so I'm happy 😃 Lots of people prefer set in sleeves for bustier women. I can see that. But raglan, dolman and grown on sleeves are just so much more comfortable 🤣 Thank you so much Barbara!! I always appreciate your input!!!💕💕
Your fabric makes the dress! And totally agree that there is no pattern that suits every body type. Plus I don't think wrap dresses flatter big busted body shapes (like me! haha) So I will be interested to see other wrap dress patterns if you decide to go that way. 😊
I need to do an update - I did a fit muslin of the Elodie and it was not a success 😩
Good job!! For your issue with tying the straps, what about using elastic on the inside, and then a fabric covered elastic on the outside so that you can just pull it over your head. Does that make sense?
I like that idea! Thanks so much - I MIGHT give it a try. I thought I was done with this one haha! But if that makes it more wearable I should give it a shot. THANKS!!
Amazing save! Yay for sewing friends. I disagree that wrap dresses are flattering on every body. What I learned recently is that wrap dresses enhance/create curves. If that is not your goal, then I wouldn’t wear them. The dress is beautiful - that “fabric” is just stunning! 💞
I think many wrap dresses do enhance/create curves. This one was not designed that way - it is basically straight down from the armscye. It's supposed to be loose fitting and not "hug" the curves. It's comfortable, but definitely not flattering LOL. Thanks so much Izzy!
Great improvements. Love the fabric and love the finished dress. I’m not sure that wrap dresses are the best choice for me as I have a large bust and I’m very apple shaped (that is my waist is bigger in size, but not number, than my hips).
Yeah - I've heard people say that wraps are great for ANY shape. But I am not sold ...yet. We'll see if I find something. I'll let you know 😊
The dress looks lovely but I can see the shoulder seams are on your arms ...that can cause some fullness and pulling at the point of the armholes. it will also raise the sleeve and it will feel much better.
Actually, the shoulder seams are exactly on my shoulder point. I thought I pointed that out in the video. With the resized sleeves, they feel like they fit to me. 🤷♀️
Woo full like it❤
Thanks 🤗
💜💜💜
😍😍😍
Look lovely on you - size down to 16 - and increase width of the arms.
You are too kind 😊. I appreciate your suggestions but I don't think wrap dresses are for me. That's ok though - there are lots of other options out there!! Thanks so much for stopping by!
Wow - what a difference to the original dress. It is definitely more flattering on you now and the colour looks so summery.
. I can see why you wouldn’t make it again though, as a dress which you need help getting into is not practical.
Thanks Margaret 😊. And it's a definite no to clothes that need help getting into haha!!
Well, I think that color suits you very well! You have a lot of patience to make those changes and even though this won't be a dress you wear very often, you should feel great knowing that all of your adjustments worked out so well.
PS Nothing -- absolutely NOTHING -- looks good on every body type. What a sales hype that has been over the years.. And "one size fits all" doesn't. Just doesn't!
Totally agree Deb! And that's totally ok that not everything looks good on everyone - that's what makes the world go round, as they say. But quit SAYING it! haha! I'm learning patience with my makes. It does me no good if they just sit in my closet. So i'm committed to working with each new make to get it right before "signing off" 😊. Thanks for watching!!
Great fix! You don't look your happiest in it, though. It's very nice and completely wearable... but there are other dresses which, IMHO, are better on you. Needing help to get in it? Oy!!! I have always heard that wrap dresses are universally flattering but the few I've sewn (years ago) and the occasional ones I try on in stores are always in my reject pile. I'm chesty and it's supposed to be an especially good style for if you're chesty... well not on me. I'm looking forward to you trying those others so I can see how they turn out!
I agree Diane - I have heard it's especially flattering on busty women but I don't believe it's true! I'm going to try a few more and see - I'll keep you posted!!
Not sure all those gathers at the waist are a good look on anyone. Maybe if the fabric was really thin like a georgette it might drape better? Pulling the dress across seems to have thrown the darts off a little. You might get more shaping by making darts under the bust, or add gathers under the bust in the bodice. It looks like you have enough fabric to do this, the bodice certainly does not need to be shorter. I think empire waists only look good if the waist is closer to the body under the bust. The current dress waistline is hanging away from your body, making you look larger around the waist.
Thanks for your suggestions Helen. Actually, I AM larger around the waist - the dress is not hanging away from my body (other than skimming) - my upper stomach actually sticks out further than my bust unfortunately.
I think you look cute!
Thanks!
Your dress is cute, but needing help to put it on is a deal breaker. I couldn't wear it with my figure either (Homer Simpson-like).
Yeah- it's not good to need help getting dressed, I'm not ready for that 🤣
Ten inches of ease?? That seems way over the top.
A little much, right?
Not a fan of wrap dress’s.
Ok