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.
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.
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.
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 is a self-taught sewist (thanks to the internet) and a biologist. She lives in Florida with her husband, 1 human baby, and 2 fur-babies (dogs). She believes in sewing as self-care.