True Bias Shelby Dress Romper

It’s summertime and we are all looking for cute and functional outfits that help us beat the heat. Fortunately, the True Bias Shelby Dress Romper pattern checks all the boxes! With a flattering V-neck and front button openings, this versatile pattern offers four different versions: a wide-leg short romper, a wide-leg long romper, a short dress, and a long dress. The choice of cap or regular sleeve can be paired with any (or all!) of these versions. What’s more, they all feature a figure-flattering, 90’s style, back-waist tie. Ummm, yes please!

We loved this pattern so much that we made Bonnie make it twice! The first round she used the soft and linen-like Moda “Bazaar” Batik Rayon in Chartreuse and Pink, and, after seeing how lovely she looked, Kate decided that she couldn’t live without her own in our new Colorado Polyester in Black.  You might be thinking, “Polyester? Yuck, no thanks.” But worry not! This high-end polyester is smooth, breathable, and flows just right. Personally, I am absolutely in LOVE with the long romper version of this pattern, and I might have no choice but to make it with our Raw Silk Noil in Canard!  Summer can be a little uncomfortable for us *ahem* ‘voluptulous-ly thighed’ women. However, the romper versions of this pattern provide all the grace and fun of a summertime frock minus the chafing.

This pattern is well-drafted and easily followed. Bonnie’s only note being that the neckline was a tad low for her taste. She recommends comparing the Shelby’s neckline to the necklines of other, similar, garments you like prior to cutting your fabric. On her first attempt, Bonnie realized post-cutting that she was uncomfortable with the lower neckline,so she improvised by moving the buttons slightly inward as an alternative means of raising the neckline. Additionally, the booty difference between Bonnie and Kate is significant enough that, for the Colorado Polyester version, she took care to smooth the waist seems for a little less curve.

In general, we recommend this pattern to intermediate level sewers, as the buttonholes can be a bit tricky for beginners. All in all, the True Bias Shelby Dress Romper is a great pattern that is flattering for a plethora of body types, and the perfect summer fit!