The Katie shirt dress by Sew Sew Def

I love how sewing has evolved online.  Great indie designers are creating simple and basic patterns that are very easy to sew and alter.  For me, the ability to immediately download a pattern has been rewarding.  Often, I get inspired and want to start creating without running to the fabric store.  PDF patterns, although labor intensive, can be purchased and taped together for immediate use.  I've made the process somewhat therapeutic by listening to podcasts or music while methodically piecing together the patterns.  Let's be honest, tissue patterns are really no less labor intensive and very flimsy.

The Katie dress, a free downloadable pattern by Sew Sew Def Magazine, is a casual button-up shirt dress with bell sleeves and an a-line shape.  It has pockets (always a plus for me) and is quite voluminous making this dress comfortable for every day wear.

I used a blue chambray fabric that I purchased from JOANN Fabrics.  This was my first foray into collars and button plackets but the instructions were easy to follow.  The only change I made was I took out quite a bit of volume after I initially completed the dress.  I just couldn't pull off the full volume look, so I removed at least 4 inches on both side seams.  Wouldn't this also make a cute top for jeans?  I'll be making several more versions in the future.

Be sure to scroll through the photos using the arrows on the image:

My new fall uniform. Scroll for more views. Additional info on blog (link in profile). The #katiedress by @sewsewdefmag (@mimigstyle) #sewalamode #sewing #handmade

A post shared by Sophie, Lola & Zeus (@thedemersdogs) on Sep 15, 2017 at 9:23am PDT

What are your favorite online patterns and/or designers?