Pattern Testing: Francoise Dress - Tilly and the Buttons

I'm sure you're well aware of the buzz surrounding Tilly and the Buttons' latest offering - the rather awesome Francoise Dress! If you're wondering exactly why my face looks so smug below, there are three reasons:

1. I got to test Francoise.
2. Along the way, I discovered I can pull off a shift dress.
3. My fabric choice makes me stupidly happy.

Unlike many shift dresses, Francoise is shaped at the waist by bold, French darts, which eliminate the 'sack-factor' for busty gals like me! To get the perfect fit for my shape, I graded between 3 sizes. I cut a size 3 for the neckline, collar and armholes, a size 4 from the armhole to the waist, and a size 5 from the hips to the hem. This was a winning combination for me, giving me a snug fit where I need it, but allowing enough room for my hips (read muffin tops) and booty!

We've all come to expect the highest of standards from Tilly and the Buttons instructions, and Francoise doesn't disappoint. With Tilly holding your hand you feel invincible, even during the slightly trickier steps. In fact, one of the things I love about this pattern is that it has slightly trickier steps. You can make Francoise as simple or as challenging as you wish.

What makes me super-duper happy about my Francoise Dress is the linen fabric I found in my stash. Isn't the print all kinds of amazing? I love how autumnal it is, yet I'm still excited about wearing it in warmer weather.
There is one thing that bugs me about this make though, and I'm so angry at myself, because it's pretty perfect otherwise. I was so hung up on matching the pattern at the back and side seams (in which I was victorious!) that I stupidly didn't even think of the centre front. As a consequence, my pattern placement (or lack of) makes my collar look off-centre, but I promise you it's not! It's such an annoying oversight on my part, but hey ho!

I'm genuinely taken with Francoise and can't wait to rustle up a three-quarter length sleeve version or two. If you like what you see, make sure you get creative with your Francoise and enter the contest of a lifetime for the chance to win a £500 sewing machine or a £100 fabric voucher!