Nique in Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmande on Maternity Sewing

Postpartum Style: Ivy Pinafore

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Nique in Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmande on Maternity Sewing

Specs

Pattern: The Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmade
View & Size: View 1, Size 18
Adjustments: None.  The pattern is drafted for a D cup, so I did not have to make a FBA.
Fabric: I used a mid-weight chambray fabric for the outer fabric.  I used a cotton lawn and a woven rayon for the lining and a cotton lawn for the pockets. 
Pictured at: ~9 months postpartum.  

Nique in Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmande on Maternity Sewing

I’ve been eyeing the Ivy pinafore for quite some time now.  Pinafores have become an integral part of my post-partum wardrobe, and I’ve been needing a few more for the coming warm/hot summer months.  I really like the swishy look of view 1, so I started with that one (plus it looked more forgiving since there are no darts).  

The pattern calls for “medium weight fabrics with drape in mind” with matching lightweight lining.  I had * just* enough of a lovely heavier weight chambray that has been languishing in my stash for ages.  My lining is made up of two fabrics, since I did not have enough of either; I’m happy that I got to use up some fabrics I was trying to purge from my stash.  I used the cotton lawn for the pockets, as the pattern suggests lighter weight fabrics for the pockets.  I used some lightweight fusible interfacing that I had in my stash, which was great for the fabric I used.  The buttons, which many think look like citrus :), were a happy, recent find. 

Nique in Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmande on Maternity Sewing

The fabric feels so luxurious and the swish of the fabric makes everything so comfortable.  I did let the dress hang overnight, per the instructions, and I’m so glad that I did; one of the lining fabrics ended-up stretching out considerably.  The pockets are amazing and can comfortably fit my phone, keys, and a small wallet!  I’m sure as my little one grows, they’ll have plenty of extra room for toys, pebbles, and leaves.

I didn’t make any adjustments to the pattern.  I love the length and it fits comfortably in the shoulder/bust area, which is an area I usually struggle with.  I made it with fully functional buttons, which makes nursing access a breeze; however, getting the strap back over my shoulder is a bit difficult at times, since the straps are fairly short.  The length is spot on for me.  Not too short, but short enough that this will be great with tights/leggings for cooler months.  

Nique in Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmande on Maternity Sewing

This style is definitely not in my comfort zone.  I’m not known for wearing trapeze-like silhouettes; in fact I’m sure I’ve asked people the logic behind them in the past.  However, this dress is very dreamy to wear, and I’m so glad that I tried it.  My only regret is that I didn’t make it sooner.  I would have loved this while I was pregnant in the hot summer months.  

Nique in Ivy Pinafore by Jennifer Lauren Handmande on Maternity Sewing

Chime in!