Novelty-print Christmas Dress - #vintagepledge

Merry Christmas friends - and if you don't celebrate the holiday I hope you're enjoying a nice break anyway! I'm celebrating the day with a novelty-print dress, inspired by Sarah of A Million Dresses, which also happens to be my third (of five) make for my Vintage Sewing Pattern Pledge. It's my first ever occasion-specific, novelty-print and I can totally see the appeal!

I used vintage Butterick 2315, which caught my attention due to the unusual gathers used to shape the front bodice. It turns out that this detail, coupled with the kimono sleeves and gathered skirt, make for a really speedy dress.

I don't really have anything to say on the construction of this dress, because it was so ruddy easy. The finished result is more of a wearable muslin before I make it with a plainer print to show off the bodice detail. Next time I think I'll pinch a centimetre or two out of the centre front neckline, somehow reduce the amount of fabric around the side of the chest (any ideas on how to do this with kimono sleeves?) and change the skirt to a more flattering (non-gathered) shape.

Showing off my baubles in a bauble-print dress...

Remember, you can be in with a chance of winning one of four awesome prizes, as long as you share your makes for the Vintage Sewing Pattern Pledge with me by 31 December 2014 on Twitter (#vintagepledge), through a comment on my blog, or by emailing me.