Sonata Dress {Love Notions}

I haven’t sewn anything for myself since my Joy Jacket.  I was feeling like I needed to get my adult sewjo juices going, so when I saw Love Notions had a new dress pattern coming up I thought I’d give it a go. This was actually the first time I’ve been selected to help with a pattern test for Love Notions, so I wasn’t really sure what to expect.  I found that Tami took a lot of care to help make this pattern a great fit.  I think she ended up with 5 revisions before she settled on final product.  I was impressed by the little details that were tweaked to get this ready for the masses. *This post contains affiliate links.

The Sonata dress, is a simple dress with no closures. The size range goes from XS-XXXL and includes bust sizes as well.  The pattern includes four sleeve options and several options for the neckline which includes a facing (exposed or hidden), plus a lined bodice option.  Elastic in the back gives this woven pattern the ability to pull on, yet allows for a little but of cinching in at the waist to keep things flattering.  This pattern has been tested using many different types of wovens, but my personal opinion is that you can get the most flattering look with a fabric that has a nice drape.  I used this fabric that I bought from JoAnn’s sometime last year.  It’s from the Nicole Miller line and is so SOFT! I’m pretty sure it is rayon, but I’ve obviously slept since I bought it.  Seriously a comfy make!

The Sonata is recommended for the confident beginner.  I feel like this is an appropriate label.  I also love that a beginner would gain some additional skills when sewing this up.  Tami has included directions on how to adjust the bust darts so that you can get a personalized fit for yourself. For myself I did not need to move the darts, but I did make a length adjustment utilizing the shorten and lengthen line.  This is a typical adjustment for myself.

For my version I chose the hidden facing, however be sure to check out the exposed versions of this dress in the listing.  Using the exposed facing is a great way to add a pop of color or contrast to your dress.  I may try that on my next version.  I also plan to use the flutter sleeve on my next version.  Sleeveless isn’t the most flattering on my arms and my body hasn’t seen the light of day since last August, I need to cover up as much as possible until I get some sun on my skin.

I also have to give some kudos to my oldest daughter (nine years old) who helped me out by shooting these photos.  I think she did a pretty great job!  It was the most awkward photo session we’ve had in a while because people were fishing off the bridge around us and we both felt totally dorky standing in the middle of the road while she shot photos and people were standing around nearby. Oh the things we do for our beloved hobbies.