My first Aldaia dress, a Pauline Alice pattern

A few years after the rest of the sewing world, I finally sewed the Aldaia dress, a lovely pattern from Pauline Alice.

The fabric

Last Christmas, my parents got me this pattern, along a gorgeous colorful fabric. I had long been in love with the wrap top of the dress, and immediately knew that paired with a flowy skirt and elbow-length sleeves, this would be very me: A comfortable, retro-looking and cute outfit...that's Sew Marinette!

And then, suddenly, I started doubting my fabric choice. Indeed, last summer I tried to make a wrap dress with a white fabric that had lots of colourful flowers on it. And actually, pleats + colors + patterns was a bit too much, and I don't think we could fully appreciate the beauty of the fabric and the beauty of the pattern. A bit like the two were fighting each other for the spotlight!

Scalded by this experience, I decided to take my sweet time before rushing to cut the gorgeous fabric I had been gifted. I visited my favourite fabric shop to find an alternative, and found this very cute, and very cheap, grey and red fabric.

The pattern

The Aldaia dress offers three different alternatives: with or without sleeve, with a round neckline or a wrapped top, and with a flared or straight skirt.

I opted for a mix of them all: I loved the sleeves from the model A, the neckline from the model B, and the skirt of the model C... A happy mix indeed!

In regard to adjustments, I've lenghten the skirt by 10 centimetres. This is an adjustment I often make: First because I am 5 feet 6, but also because I hate wearing short or mini skirt.

I don't think the sewing process presents any challenge. The wrap top, which could be a bit challenging, is superbly explained, and if you take your time, I believe even beginners would be able to achieve it.

I've used my interlocker for this dress, from beginning to end. This meant the dress was very quick to sew, and it truly has a lovely perfect finish.

What I thought of Aldaia

I am very happy I gave this pattern a go, and actually, even happier I used a cheap fabric for a start. The more I wear it, the less convinced I am that this neckline is one for me.

Don't get me wrong - I absolutely adore this dress, and I've worn it very often since I finished it (with a pair of tight and a cardigan, it's perfect for the beginning of the spring), but I am not convinced the bust pleats are the most fitting for me.

I think I'll sew the next one (with my gorgeous fabric) with a simpler pattern: Maybe just a V-neck and a slightly shorter skirt. Stay tuned!