Kew; the best dressed girl in town!

This pattern's namesake suits the dress down to the ground. When we think of Kew Gardens, we think of roses, lawn picnics and sunshine ...and that is exactly what the Kew dress and skirt was designed for.

Not sold yet? Then this pattern comes with not one, not two, but THREE options; a ruched sleeve dress, a cold shoulder dress and an A-line skirt. All three options button up the front and both dresses have a pretty V-neckline.

When one of our Sewing Instructors, Alex, first saw this pattern, she decided it would be perfect for an upcoming family wedding. She made the sleeved version (version 1) in a lightweight viscose. The construction of the dress was fairly straightforward. Version 1 has some clever yokes at the shoulder, which allow you to gather the fabric into them, eliminating the need for bust darts. Whilst the darts at the waist on both bodice and skirt patterns make for a flattering fit. Made up in a floaty viscose, the dress is perfect for even the warmest of summer days. However, should you choose to make it in one of our stonewashed linens, the dress would have more structure and would look super chic. Choose a pretty satin or draped crepe, it would become the vintage party dress of your dreams.

(L-R) Lavender Stonewashed Linen, Ex-Designer Luxury Cotton Voile, Rose Blush Crepe

Love Version 2, but not a fan of a cold shoulder detail? Absolutely not a problem, just eliminate the sleeve flounces and make yourself a strappy sundress, perfect for a summer BBQ. Opt for one of our Linen Look Cottons for a gloriously cool and breezy summer dress., or sew it up in our Indigo Denim or Sugar Skull Chambray and pair it with a t-shirt for those cooler spring days.

Version 3 is the skirt. This is a simple, chic shape with two darts at front and back giving subtle shaping. There is also a subtle high-low hem. We were wary of this at first, as they can sometimes look awkward, but this is so subtle that it just adds elegance and swoosh to the skirt.

We love the button up front, it's an on trend and a simple way to add glam to your make. For a denim version, add jeans buttons for 90's vibes. For a lightweight viscose, simple shell buttons make the garment feel that extra bit special.

(L-R) Monochrome Dotty Crepe, Lady McElroy Lovehearts Tencel Lawn, Lady McElroy Cobra Corsage, Leopard Viscose Chalis, Burgundy Floral Bubble Crepe

Since the pattern arrived in-store, Kate has made both the Version A dress and the skirt already! She chose floaty crepe fabric for both garments; for the dress she chose our (now sold out) Red Floral Morrocaine and she used our Monochrome Dotty Crepe for the skirt - and we think both look just fabulous! You can read Kate's skirt review here!

Which version would you choose?

Stay safe and happy sewing, the Sew Creative team x