After I pattern tested for the most recent Jalie collection, they offered us all an additional pattern for each one we tested. I jumped at the chance to get the Nikita Workout Tank, which has really fun seamlines!
And of course, I turned it into a maxi, just like I did with another Jalie pattern last year! And also predictably, I chose a crazy print that hides much of the detail. Here’s the pattern envelope so you can see!
Cute, right?
To make it a maxi, I extended out the side seams and front panel, and then stuck a big deep ruffle on the hem on either side of the front panel. I really should have paid more attention to the fact that it’s drafted as a workout tank – the armscye was very low. I ended up having to take it up significantly at the shoulders, and scoop the front neckline down so I can breathe! Fit-wise, it definitely would have been better to raise the armscye before cutting my fabric.
Did you notice my neon piping? It’s picot elastic from L’Oiseau Fabrics. I did a post back in 2014 about how to use elastic as flat piping, and I really should have reread that article, because I did it much more neatly then than I did this time! I accidentally stretched the piping along the centre front panel, and as you can see above my stitching is meandering and sometimes the picots show! And I’m here to say, #sorrynotsorry. Who cares?
Did you notice my beautiful necklace and earrings? They are a handmade gift from Sarah when we met at Hamilton Frocktails. She was the first sewing blogger I met back in 2012, and she is a treasure.
Now in case you are keeping track, YES, this is my third dress in a row with ruffles. I’m pretty sure I’m not done yet, so buckle up! I really like wearing this dress, and now that summer vacation is upon us, I’ll happily wear maxi dresses every day!
Crafting A Rainbow 
Cute! I love the fabric- maybe you should have DELIBERATELY used the picot edge as your piping? lol easiest solution, always!
LikeLike
Hahahaha – you mean use the elastic the way it’s supposed to be used???? I really should have, probably. I just wanted the most contrast possible!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love it! The neon piping is a bit of a gem as well as the gorgeous fabric! I have wallpaper in my house almost the same print – so I must love big green leaves – maybe I should make one so I could camouflage myself and jump out on visitors! he he he!
LikeLike
YES YOU SHOULD! Did you see the Blackbird Fabrics wallpaper and matching clothes made by Spooflower? That’s #lifegoals, right there!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I tried to add this to my comment above – but it wouldn’t work – hope it does now! https://wordpress.com/block-editor/post/handmadehomemadeknitstitchdesign.wordpress.com/3572
LikeLike
Honestly, what are you doing with your life if there are no ruffles??
LikeLike
I just don’t know. That’s a question for the ages!
LikeLike
That looks fab! Love the bright piping and the big print.
LikeLike
I love this pattern. Too bad about the arm holes – maybe if they had a workout version and another version. The dress is beautiful!
LikeLike
I’m liking this a LOT. Awesome print, and perfect for summer barbecues.
LikeLike