Sewing Pattern Review - Colette Patterns Parfait Dress

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Welcome to my favorite dress ever! Ha! I love this dress. And by this dress, I mean the Colette Patterns Parfait dress. I like it so much I’ve made 4 of them. There are only 3 pictured here because I have something planned for the 4th. It’s a little unusual and a little patch work…More on that later.

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The dress features button straps, a gathered underbust and fitted midriff with an A-Line gored skirt and small, puffed rounded pockets.

The first version, I made from a lovely Pendleton Space dyed Linen (Portland Collection) and I kept the button front straps. Before sewing up, I did do a quick tissue fitting to make sure the dress would fit. It DID need some fit adjustments in the bodice. This is a struggle with Colette Patterns, but I knew that going in. The adjustments were minimal, however, so I proceeded to sew it up as is.

The overall fit was great, but it was definitely a little shorter than I wear my skirts. So, for the next two versions, I added 6” to the length. Additionally, I also shortened the straps 3/4” and combined the front strap with the button extension so that I would not need to button the straps. While it’s a cute detail, the buttons tend to make the straps move around too much and they became very fussy, overall. I also omitted the buttons on the pockets, because I just like to use my pockets more often and the buttons got in the way.

My first Parfait dress

My first Parfait dress

My 3rd and most worn Parfait dress.

My 3rd and most worn Parfait dress.

I do recommend this pattern. It’s a tried and true classic and looks very retro, which appeals to me. It’s also very comfortable and easy to wear.

Here are the details -

Until next time, Happy Sewing!

Jennifer