Pattern Review: Bunnybear 1850s Signature Dress

I've wanted to try Bunnybear's 1850s Signature Dress pattern for a long time. I love Bunnybear patterns--they are beautifully designed and really cute. I also love how each pattern is historically accurate. A lot of research has gone into each pattern, and that makes sewing the patterns and dressing my dolls all the more fun.

So here is my version for Kirsten. I chose a plaid homespun for the majority of the dress, but a white cotton for the sleeves. The hem is from a strip of floral cotton that I've had forever.

The only thing I don't love is the waistline. Maybe I didn't align the pattern pieces correctly, but the waistband is very loose. In fact, I've pinned it behind her back for these photos. She may need an apron to make the dress look more fitted. I also thought fitting the sleeves into the arm scyes was tricky--but I also had a crying three-year-old who was not happy that I sat down to sew for a few minutes. Crying children kind of break my concentration . . .

But I would still highly recommend this pattern. I loved the construction and the tidy finishes--the facings and the neat way to hem the skirt. I also loved the details--the pintuck in the skirt and the little ruffles on the sleeve jockeys. I decided to sew little buttons up the back instead of using Velcro. I felt like Velcro would have ruined the pretty little historical vibe that the whole dress has.

If I use this pattern again, I'll try to adjust the waistband. But it's good enough for now. Kirsten will wear it while waiting for spring. Which just can't come fast enough, if you ask me . . .