It seems as though suddenly the weather has shifted and it's really and truly spring! I've been finding myself in the basement often - sorting through the stockpile of thrifted and saved-for-later kids clothes scrambling to find shorts, sandals, and short sleeve shirts. Then figuring out where the gaps are, and planning some sewing. I've been looking for a comfy, easy-to-wear, simple dress pattern for Adelaide - something we can throw on over her swimsuit, that will cover her shoulders a bit, and be comfortable to play in, too. The new patterns at Oliver + S caught my eye, so I gave the Bubble Dress a go this week (I purchased the pattern at Sew Mama Sew).
The pattern is categorized "Advanced Beginner" which I think is pretty right on. There were a few things I hadn't done before (understitching, for example), or that gave me pause when reading through the first time. But the directions are clear and easy to follow, and I think these 'extras' make for a better quality garment. The pattern calls for a lining (I used a mid-weight muslin) which gives it a great weight, and the bubble - oh, I love that loose elastic bubble.
I used it with one of my all-time favorite prints, red-kerchief girl (which I also used on a shirt for her last year). A few colorways are still available at Superbuzzy here.
Miraculously this week, our last bits of snow have melted, and it was warm enough for our first real spring beach visit. Ah...it felt so good to be back. Adelaide happily sported her new dress, which she told everyone she made (she did help sew the buttons on, so yes, I'm happy to have her claim it as her own creation). It wore well, protected her sweet skin from the sun, and seemed just perfect for romping about, picking up and piling rocks, and rolling in the sand - all the important work of the beach.
So, let's see. About three more of these ought to make Adelaide's summer "uniform" official. Then, on to some shorts for the boys. A sunhat or two. Oh, and sandals for everyone. How is it that they all need sandals this year? If only I knew how to make sandals.
