This little cottagecore number is the newest pattern from Pattern Emporium that I had the pleasure of testing called the Meet You There Dress. This pattern has several options including 2 sleeve lengths or sleeveless, 2 necklines, at least 5 possible lengths and a bunch of add-ons. I went with the 3/4 sleeves (pushed up right above my elbows for maximum poof), the knee length using 2 tiers, low neck, and both pockets and ties add-ons.
Now I’ll be honest, this usually isn’t my style. This style of dress is so popular now (both in ready to wear and pattern companies) and I’ve wanted to join in the fun, but I find these kinds of dress typically don’t flatter me as comfortable as they may be. When they announced the pattern test I was a bit hesitant. But after I heard there were going to be ties, I knew I could make it work.
Needless to say, I’m so happy with how it turned out! It’s incredibly comfortable and both cute and trendy without looking frumpy. It works for summer or with leggings for winter as I have it styled here (though obviously I’d wear it with a jacket if I were going out).
The pattern comes together pretty quickly. I used the regular torso length (there’s a long torso length that could be used for either tall people or to do a drop waist) and regular length tiers as well. And I didn’t have to do any adjustments on this pattern! Such a rarity for me these days. It’s got some really nice shaping with the yoke in the back that just makes the armholes fit a little nicer and the facing for the neckline was spot-on. Like other Pattern Emporium patterns, it’s very high quality in terms of pieces fitting together.
My fabric is a viscose crepe that I purchased from Stone Mountain & Daughter. It was a little fidgety to cut out, but this dress is pretty forgiving thanks to the ruffled tiers and the blousy sleeves. And despite the slippery cutting, it pressed beautifully and has such a nice drape that really makes those sleeves puff. I’ve got a bit leftover that I’m going to use to for a top. Although this pattern also works for a top, I’ll probably use it for something else since they’d be so similar.
The pattern teaches a new-to-me technique for doing the ruffles using elastic though it also provides directions on using the standard double stitch and gather technique. The elastic technique is an interesting technique that I did use for this version, but I’m not sure it’s much faster for me than the “standard” gathering technique which I’ve gotten down pretty quick. For my next iteration if I don’t use my serger (my preferred way of doing gathers), I’ll probably do the “standard” method because I like the control it gives me over where the gathers go, but this is a good technique to have in one’s pocket, especially when you need to gather to fit a specific width.
I’m so pleased with this pattern and this dress. It’s a great piece for showing off some cool fabric since there are no darts in the bodice. With different neckline and hemline options (and pockets!) it’s also work-friendly. I know I’ll be wearing mine to work all the time once we’re back in the office since it’s a great way to look put together while still being super comfy. Plus with the holidays coming up, it’s great for when you just want to look cute, enjoy that big ole meal and still be super comfy.
Actually on this your perspective may be a bit off. You a truly look great in that outfit particularly with the boots but likely even without them. There is a “rightness” to the whole image of your shape and face in that dress. This is an opinion on esthetics that I believe is unfettered by otherwise expected bias. In this context cottagecore evokes hygge.
Why thank you! Also, I’m impressed you know what hygge is 😀