True Bias released the Lodo Dress twelve months ago, and I’m now wondering why it took me so long to sew it.  This dress is a winner my friends, a total winner.

Kelli sums up her pattern beautifully when she says “The Lodo pattern is an elevated take on a basic t-shirt dress.  It has a straight fit through the waist and hips and a slightly tapered hem to create a subtle cocoon shape.  It has a flattering deep V neck at center front and an extended cap sleeve.  Both the neckline and armholes are finished with a woven facing for stability and structure.  View A has a hem that hits at mid calf with a slit at center back for moveability.  View B’s hem hits a couple of inches above the knee.”

The dress was designed for medium-weight knit fabrics like ponte, light-weight scuba, and cotton interlock… which we all know means secret pajamas!

I sewed Version B in a size 8, which matched my measurements.  I probably could have graded my hips down a size, but I didn’t bother and the fit is great.

The unique thing about this pattern is that the neckline and the sleeves are finished with a woven facing.  I will confess to twitching at the thought of the facings not being interfaced, but I just went with it and… drum roll… it worked a treat.  I under-stitched the facings as it makes it so much easier to turn them to the wrong side and press them in place.  It’s hard to see in the photo above, but my facings were made from a dark denim chambray.

There are a two things about this dress that are a little different for my usual makes:

The fabric to start with… it’s rather monochrome and a little bit dramatic for my usual style, but with a statement scarf, some colourful textured tights and my trusty green ankle boots I felt like myself in no-time.

The v-neck… I don’t dislike v-necks, but I rarely sew or wear them.  As far as v-necks go, this one is beautifully shaped and particularly flattering.  I’m looking forward to finding some nice bright ponte and sewing this dress again very soon!

Pattern:  True Bias’ Lodo Dress
Size:  8
Fabric:  Ponte from The Cloth Shop (sold out in both colourways)
Alterations:  Performed a 3/8″ (1cm) forward shoulder adjustment and eliminated the centre back seam
Accessories:  Sophie Digard scarf from Scarlet Jones, tights from Obus and boots from Florsheim
Location:  Random tin shed near Daylesford