Hello, I’m Adelle, and I am on a mission to create a handmade wardrobe. I’m very excited to share with you one of the comfiest makes I’ve ever sewn up!

The Pattern:

The Lena Wrap dress has a mock wrap that is fully lined, waistband and full skirt. There are three sleeve options and also a colour blocking band at the bottom of the skirt. this dress offers so much potential for all seasons.

The Fabric:

The suggested fabric is a medium weight pattern and so I went for this beautiful teal Art Gallery cotton elastane Jersey fabric called ‘Shore remains splendid‘ from Bobbins and Buttons. This fabric has the perfect weight for the full skirt whilst being ever so soft for the bodice which I also used for the lining! I’ve been drawn towards the green colour palette recently, after admitting to never have worn green before, now I have to admit I’m totally addicted!

The Sew:

From my measurements, I cut a size 10 which was a perfect fit. This pattern is an adventurous beginner pattern and the instructions take you every step of the way. The level of difficultly is due to the pattern being a jersey pattern and the lining of the bodice. But don’t let that put you off if you are a beginner sewist. The illustrations accompanying the pattern really help for absolute beginner dressmakers.

I cut version B with the half length sleeves as I want the pattern for the winter and spring season. I also chose not to do the block pattern on the skirt and just added the pieces together when cutting out the skirt.

I used the lightening stitch on the standard machine and finished the seams with the overlocker. The instructions don’t tell you when to finish the seams but with jersey this isn’t an essential part, you can easily leave them as jersey won’t unravel.

Because I used the same fabric for the lining I had to be very careful labelling my pattern pieces as at times it got a little confusing. After the bodice was finished, everything else came together very quickly.

The Finished Dress:

From the start I knew the Lena wrap dress was going to become a favourite piece in my handmade wardrobe and I haven’t been disappointed. The fit is fabulous and I like the flare on the skirt. However I need to add a little stitch in the front as the wrap is quite low and wouldn’t be suitable for work.

Thank you Simple Sew for inviting me to work with you and Bobbin and Buttons for the beautiful fabric. I can’t wait to try another pattern soon.

Adelle x 

@button_and _pip

Adelle’s latest addition to her me made wardrobe is ideal for spring and her choice of a bold patterned Art Gallery jersey from Bobbins and buttons has definitely paid off. If you’re looking for more jersey inspiration, Bobbins and Buttons have everything from children’s designs to classic stripes. We picked out our favourites below that we think would work well for our Lena dress. For more details on the Lena Wrap dress pattern check out the fabric requirements and sizing on the back of the envelope below.