How do I love this dress? Let me count the ways.
- It is an amazing linen-rayon blend from Bolt Fabric Boutique here in Portland.
- It fits great.
- I love the look.
- The pattern/construction were fabulous.
So yes. It is the Merchant & Mills Camber Dress, and I am in LOVE!
I had read rave reviews of Merchant & Mills patterns before, but I don't know...something about the packaging and branding made me feel like the patterns were a bit frumpy and old-fashioned. But on a recent visit to Bolt, this Camber Set piqued my interest. I started to look at the dress as a silhouette instead of how it was presented on the envelope, and my vision unfolded.
I wanted something modern, comfortable, flattering and streamlined. I wanted it to be easy and quick to sew but not without enough detail to keep my interest.
And that is exactly what I got.
I used my measurements and made a size 10. From looking at other bloggers' photos online, I think some people must have gone down a size as mine is less fitted than others. I like this look though, so I'm glad I stuck with it. It's very comfortable and will also have ample room for my chest after my surgery next month. I also decided to shorten the dress by 15cm after trying it on. I like the longer look, but this shorter length was more what I had in mind for this fabric.
I love the exposed bias facing on the front of the neckline, and the yoke (shown above) adds a nice, unique touch. The fit is superb, and I can't wait to make a tee version, too. And who knows...I might just have to invest in some more Merchant & Mills patterns - this one is just that good!
Have you sewn Merchant & Mills? What do you think?
