It's been a fairly slow and steady sew, but I've finally finished my first Emery dress. I've heard a lot of sewing blogger buzz around the Christine Haynes pattern, and I can definitely see why - I'm totally on board!

So suitably inspired, I set off with making my own. With the English winter setting in, I chose to make Version B. Oh and if you've read my other posts, you'll know I'm a big fan of a good collar. I chose a medium-weight, autumnal orange, poly cotton to make the dress in - nothing too fancy, I just had it lying around. I favour jumping straight in and having a go with fairly cheap fabric, rather than muslin making. This is bad I know, but most of the time I can do just a few tweaks and have a perfectly wearable garment.


I normally have very little patience for pattern marking, but I bought a nifty chalk wheel tool that makes drawing darts a breeze. I can't believe I've done without one for so long!


The making up process was quite straightforward. I cut a straight size 8 (think this equates to a UK size 12). It's probably a smidge tight at the bust - didn't do an FBA, risky business - but it's a pretty good fit overall. For my next Emery, I'll probably ease the side seam allowance to around 1cm at the bust instead of 1.5cm. A tiny bit more breathing room and then the fit will be spot on! The two small darts on the neckline of the back bodice are genius. I always seem to get gaping around the back neckline, but this is clearly the way to prevent it.