StyleArc’s Hope Woven Dress is one of my current pattern crushes.  This is my second version but it’s jumping to the top of my blogging list as it’s my first make for #sewjapaneseinjanuary this year.

It’s the fifth year that Jane and I have hosted #sewjapaneseinjanuary… an Instagram hashtag to inspire and motivate people to sew from their Japanese pattern and/or fabric stash during the month of January.  There are no sponsors or giveaways, it’s a community event on Instagram that anyone can join in.  To account for  seasonal differences between hemispheres, we also usually host #sewjapaneseinjuly.  I encourage you to look at both the hashtags as there are lots of inspiring makes from sewists around the globe.

The fabric probably needs little introduction… it’s a divine Nani Iro linen designed by textile artist Naomi Ito for Kokka Fabrics.  I purchased it online from The Cloth Shop and collected it when I went into work.  Yes, after a 14 year break I’ve returned to the workforce as an online consultant at The Cloth Shop (2 days a week) and I couldn’t be happier.

It’s probably hard to see, but some sections of the floral design are highlighted with what I’m calling a sliver foil.  The sheen just accentuates the stunning design.

I sewed the size 10 as per my bust measurement and the fit is true to size.

Midi dresses are sort of a new length for me, but one that I’m enjoying.  You know that giggling, taking your shoes off, jumping between the rocks, and splashing your toes in the river kind of enjoying!

The Hope Dress came together without incident.  I left off the pockets, did my usual forward shoulder adjustment, lowered the front neckline by 3/8″ (1cm) and opted to bind the neckline rather the use the facings and create a back neck split.

I’m already considering sewing a third Hope Dress as it’s a great work and everyday life dress for me.

And buying and sewing more Nani Iro fabrics… well that’s just a given.  I like to treat myself to one piece from each of their collections… luckily for my bank balance there are only two collections a year!

Pattern:  StyleArc’s Hope Dress
Size:  10
Fabric:  I purchased both the fabric and the pattern from work.
Alterations:  I left off the pockets, did my usual forward shoulder adjustment, lowered the front neckline by 3/8″ (1cm) and opted to bind the neckline.
Outfit:  Shoes from Lusia (purchased years ago) and necklace by Sonia Rykiel (an old favourite).
Photo Location:  Dights Falls, Melbourne