Off Shoulder Ruffle Dress: New Look 6507 Pattern Review
So I went into JoAnn about two months ago looking for sewing notions and, similarly to my trips to Walmart, I came out with fabric I did not intend to buy. Since I had no clue what I would do with this rayon challis, I purchased two yards of this beautiful fabric to be on the safe side. New Look 6507 has been sitting in my pattern stash for a while and, after seeing numerous reviews on pattern review, I finally decided to give it a try this weekend. Initially, I planned to use fabric that I picked up during my trip to Los Angeles but I came across the rayon challis and knew it was the fabric for 6507.
Let me just say I love this pattern. I was able to trace the pattern, cut the fabric, and sew the dress in one day. I did make a few modifications that I discuss in the pattern review below. I made the right decision going with the rayon challis, it came out as a beautiful dress and the fabric weight is amazing for summer weather in the deep south. I also decided to give my roll hem foot a try. Let me just say that was an experience all on its own. It actually took me several hours to finish the dress, because I refused to finish the hem as directed by the instructions. I practiced doing the roll hem on scrap fabric two or three times and went for it on the dress. Both hems are far from perfect, but as with all things practice makes perfect. I included close up pictures of the hem so you can see what I mean. Enjoy the pictures and review, happy sewing!
Pattern Description:
Off the shoulder ruffle top and dress in two lengths with flounce at neckline. Can be made to wear off one shoulder or both shoulders and strap can be added for support.
Pattern Sizing:
XS – XL. I cut view C size XS.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelop once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, for the most part. I took the waist in slightly.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
The instructions were easy to follow. I have gotten into the habit of reading the instructions two or three times before I cut my fabric. I found that I make fewer mistakes when I know what lies ahead. The illustrations were very good and I think this is great pattern for a beginner, especially if they haven’t sewn with bias tape.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
There were very few pieces to cut and sew up. Seriously, there were only three pattern pieces and four fabric pieces. However, I did not like the excess fabric above my bottom. I took the sides seams in a tad bit at the waist, but not too much because the fabric is not stretch and I still had to get the dress over my bust area.
Fabric Used:
Rayon Challis
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I did not finish the hem on the flounce or dress as directed by the instructions. I simply did not want to bother with all the ironing. Plus the flounce lacked the length that I desired so I definitely did not want to take away from it by doing the hem as suggested.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Not sure if I want to make another off shoulder dress because fall is right around the corner but I would definitely recommend it to others.
Conclusion:
This dress is great for sewers on any level. And if you are an advanced sewer it will not take long to make. It is a simple pattern but fabric selection can turn it from a casual day on the beach dress to a date-night dress.
See, in certain spots the hem did not roll under properly but it was definitely operator error!
