Sew Stretchy- Ikat Lady Skater

This month’s challenge over at The Monthly Stitch is Sew Stretchy- which is perfect timing for me since I’m working on quite a few knit projects this month.  I just finished some swimsuits/rashguards for Ami, I’m working on some bras and underwear and I’m planning on making a swimsuit after that.  But first up is my first Lady Skater by Kitschy Coo!  I get what all the rave’s were about now- I adore this dress!  The fit is fabulous and so flattering!  I’ve made a few of the girl’s version for my daughter (which you can view here and here) so the construction of this was super fast.  I think I made this in less than 2 hours last Saturday!

I made this dress in a size 4.  Really glad I made a muslin of just the bodice first since I initially went with the size 3 and it was a tad too tight.   I recommend following the pattern recommendation of doing  the muslin first!

This fabric was love at first sight!  I found this beautiful Rabat Rayon/Lycra Knit  Ikat print on Marcy Tilton’s website and knew I had to have it. This fabric was part of my Mother’s Day gift- My husband told me to go ahead and buy whatever I wanted!  :) The print is even prettier in person and it fits in perfectly with my wardrobe architect color scheme!  The fabric is also so soft and lightweight- but not sheer- perfect for wearing in our Florida heat!

I used my serger for most of the construction plus topstitching on my regular machine and a double needle for the hem.  The pattern uses clear elastic at the waist really helps the dress stay in place and hang well.  I love the crib sheet instructions- made the sewing a breeze!  I made the cap sleeve version for my first go with no alterations.  Can’t wait to make more- I love this dress.  Only downside is that since I’m still breastfeeding it’s only practical for wearing out when we’ll only be gone a short time- I wanted to wear it for Mother’s Day but knew it wouldn’t work since we’d be out all day and my daughter would need to nurse at some point.  I really do miss wearing dresses all the time–sigh– someday!