Hello, it’s Yasmeen here from _ym.sews_. Today I’m talking about the Shoreline Boatneck which I made in dress version for my first post on the Blank Slate Patterns sewing team.
For me, a wardrobe essential is a piece of clothing that is comfortable and easy to wear. When choosing my pattern for this post I went for the Shoreline as it comes with so many options to add to my everyday wardrobe, including 3 sleeve lengths and both top and dress options.
Pattern sizing/ alterations:
The pattern comes in a wide range of sizes (XXS to XL). I cut a XXS at the top, grading to XS below the waist for a more flared skirt and ended up having to take the seams in a bit more towards the bust and upper arm areas. (This was mainly because my knit is quite stretchy and I wanted a more fitted look in these areas.)
My only alteration to the pattern was in the sleeve length. I measured the sleeves so they would fall just above my elbows and made a 3cm hem, which I turned back on itself and tacked in place to form a fake ‘turn back’ style cuff. I would be constantly rolling up long sleeves so this style suits my everyday wardrobe very well.
Fabric choices:
You can use either woven or knit fabrics for the Shoreline. My main fabric is a fairly lightweight stripe cotton jersey and I opted to fully line the dress with a super soft viscose jersey, both purchased in store at my local fabric shop. I used 1.5 meters of main fabric and 1 meter of lining for my size. As you can see in my 'inside-out' photo below, the lining sits really nicely inside the dress and gives a nice clean neckline finish. I finished the armholes on my overlocker.
Construction:
I sewed my Shoreline dress using my regular sewing machine’s zig-zag stitch (stitch length 2.5mm and width 0.5mm), and then finished all the seams on my overlocker. This is my usual approach to sewing with knit fabrics and I have never had a problem with seams popping. If for any reason the zig zag stitching line did pop, there would be a backup of the overlocked seam. You could just as easily sew this using a regular machine and not finish the edges, especially if sewn with a knit which doesn’t fray.
In summary: I love my dress!!! The full lining not only makes it really comfortable (I opted for a softer viscose jersey for the lining for extra added comfort), but it also allows me to wear the dress in all seasons +/- tights. I have already planned more Shorelines including a dress version with in seam pockets and some ¾ sleeve tops. It would be a great pattern for colour blocking too, or even making the top version with a lace overlay. The possibilities are endless!
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