Floral for Spring in Butterick 6655

I've been slowly working away on this cheery spring dress for a couple of weeks, in between other things. I've had this floral linen-rayon blend for a while, and have had Butterick 6655 in mind for it. So I finally got moving on this plan!

I loved this pattern as soon as I saw it. I've been meaning to make it ever since it first came out. I like the button band element, it adds something extra to a basic sheath dress. It's actually a faux button band -- the flap is sewn into the front centre seam and buttons are stitched down through all layers at the end. I do love a good button so this one was calling my name.

The pattern is rated as easy, and it is. There are two long darts in front and two in back. There's also a centre seam both front and back, and you attach the button band into the front seam, and then topstitch to keep the seam allowance nice and flat. There's a neck facing and set in sleeves, and a back lapped zip. All good beginner basics to practice if you're just starting. The fitting would be the hardest part. It can be worn with or without the included fabric sash, I think either way works.

As for my fitting issues, I shortened it about 3/4" above the waist but didn't below, since it's pretty short for me as designed (for my tastes anyhow) and I am short! I actually added 2" to the short hem line marking on the pattern, when I cut it out. I graded out from 14 at neck to 16 at bust and 18 at hip. A frequent tweak I make with closer fitting items. And I shortened the length of the front darts by 1/2" at top and bottom to adjust for my figure better; the back darts only needed a smidge of shortening. 

As for design tweaks, I only made one big change -- I changed the back zip to an invisible zip. That's my preferred style, and I had a perfect lightweight invisible zip in moss green in my stash that matched nicely. The only thing I didn't change was the lack of pockets. I just didn't think I could get away with side seam pockets in the fitted shape. So I'll have to learn to live without pockets with this one, argh! 

Otherwise it was a straightforward sew with basic techniques. I really like the fit, and the neckline is high but sits well and doesn't choke at all. I love the fabric and am really happy with this project. I ended up harvesting the perfect buttons for it off of my yellow jumper I made last spring, as I'm planning on refashioning that anyhow. I think they work much better on this project! 

I'm happy to have something so cheery and bright to wear as the weather starts getting lighter and brighter as well. Happy Spring to everyone.