Decisions, decisions! Butterick 5030 offers so many options and is really versatile. Should I have short, long or flounced sleeves? With or without collar? Contrast front band and belt? Shop-bought belt?

I finally opted for a lightweight cotton denim embroidered with flowers in viscose stitching. The fabric was in my stash, and I’d purchased it from Montreux Fabrics at the Sewing for Pleasure 2022 exhibition at the NEC arena. I decided on elbow length sleeves and no collar.
The pattern embellishment did not go right to the selvedge, so there was a six-inch-wide plain expanse of fabric. I decided to use this for the front band and belt.

Being of a certain age, I gained an unwanted spare tyre. I therefore made a toile of the bodice in size 18 to check fit. It was rather short, so I lengthened it by 2 cm. The dart point came too high for my proportions, so I reduced the length of the dart by 4 cm. The gathers just below shoulder level give some fullness without having to be carefully fitted like darts.

Measure twice and cut once!

At 5ft 7, I’m a couple of inches taller than most standard patterns. I always lengthen dress patterns, as I like the skirt to fall mid-calf or longer. Thus, I added 10 cm to the skirt length. When I tried it on, I realised it was just the right length – hemming it would render it too short. Oh, dear. Measure twice and cut once! I purchased matching bias binding and made a false hem, machining the hem. I added a press stud at the crossover point of the front wrap to maintain modesty and used trouser hooks for the waist fastening. They are stronger than ordinary hooks and eyes.
I think the plain front band and belt work well, the skirt is nice and full and is very wearable.