JL Patterns: Meraki Dress

I was thrilled at the chance to be able to test JLPatterns' debut pattern; The Meraki Dress. This designer really poured her heart into this design and the end result is just beautiful. The name of the pattern says it all. I can really relate to that feeling of passion and putting everything you've got into a piece of creative work.

I love the unique design elements in the Meraki! The sweet empire waist and the ruffles on the bodice are just so pretty. The real star of the show is that back. It is definitely my favorite part. I couldn't stop taking pictures of it, I like how the top of the front bodice curves and wraps around the back of the neck. This pattern would be perfect for special occasion dresses and I love the idea of customizing it to fit my daughter's birthday theme! 

I was really happy that I was able to get such a perfect fit the first time I made a dress with this pattern. Especially, because I used some of my favorite fabric to make it. Just in case you have been living under a rock, the skirt fabric is from the new Magic collection by Sarah Jane for Michael Miller. I am crazy for everything she puts out, but this fabric is just amazing. I can't wait to get my hands on some more. Lilly will just have an entire wardrobe all made in Magic.

The pattern is set to release at the end of the week, so be sure to join the facebook group so that you can get it when it becomes available. I am so excited to see what the future holds for JLPatterns. If this is her first pattern, I can only imagine what she will come up with next!

Thanks for reading,
Christina

The Kosmos Dress by The Eli Monster

I was psyched to get the opportunity to test The Kosmos Dress by The Eli Monster last week. We all have a fascination with outer space in this house. My big boy just got a telescope for his birthday and we love to talk about the stars and what makes each planet special. When I saw the Sun and Moon on that dress I knew it would be a winner!

I love the unique design of this dress, especially the curve of the neckline and integrated cap sleeve. It was a little out of the norm of what I usually make and I think that made it even more special for my daughter. She calls it her "Purple Planet Dress". Does anyone else have a kid that LOVES  Peg + Cat? Such a cute show. We stopped by a little candy shop downtown before we did these pictures and she was excited to try rock candy for the first time.

 Anyway, it's a great pattern and a fairly quick sew. There is an option to make really cool circular pockets that you can see if you check out some of the other testers' versions. There is a lot of opportunity to get creative with this pattern. I loved the Mod feel of those big circles and I really want to make another version with black and white.

The Kosmos Dress is on sale now through September 8th for $7.  I hope I gave you a little inspiration and that you will love this pattern as much as I do!

Thanks for reading,

Christina