My first Bettine!

Who's loving the heat wave this week? The weather has been so lovely in the last few days, so much so that I felt inspired to make a summer dress! 

I wanted something comfortable and cool to wear, that could be thrown on without much fuss.You may also have noticed that I have not posted a sewing project for a while (since I've been busy doing up the house again!), so I wanted something straightforward to ease me back into sewing.  

Can you believe that this is my first Tilly pattern? And I have to say, I was impressed! 

I love the simple design of the Bettine. It is beautifully casual, and extremely easy to put together. 

I had a lovely piece of viscose in my stash, which was picked up in my Garment District trip over 2 years ago. The busy pattern of red and white striped, scattered by blue grey flowers was the perfect match for this relaxed little number.  

I made a few minor tweaks to the pattern/construction:

1. I shortened both the bodice and the skirt slightly;
2. I did not topstitch the facing as it was pretty flat, and I prefer it without the visible line of stitching;
3. I did not bother with the cuff, and did a little hem on the sleeves instead. 

I'm really pleased with how quick it was to thrown together (it only took a weekday evening!), and how it turned out. I'm already sewing my next version, so watch this space! 

In the meantime, enjoy the sunshine this bank holiday weekend!