Bexley Dress

Meet the Bexley Dress by Blank Slate Patterns. I was just posting the other day about finding a perfect t-shirt pattern, and now I have a perfect t-shirt dress pattern. The Bexley sewing pattern takes a simple swing dress design up a notch with darts for shaping that open into pleats at the waist for an easy to wear style. Basically the dress is fitted just where it needs to be and loose where it doesn't!

I will share more about my role in the collaborative effort to bring this pattern together, but for now, let me tell you how you benefit. The pattern listing includes a full video add-on option that walks you through each step of the sewing process all on a standard sewing machine. The videos also detail fitting techniques and tips for sewing with slinky knits. 

Speaking of slinky knits. The Bexley Dress calls for fabrics with at least 30% stretch in both directions and nice drape. The stretch and drape are important factors in getting those darts to hang nicely. Rayon spandex is an excellent choice. This navy came from Joann Fabrics. I look for medium weight fabric to avoid any see through.

Bexley includes two cut lines for length. Keep in mind I am tall for the pattern. I've added 1/2" in length above the darts and cut between the above-the-knee and knee length for the dress. I may prefer to show a little more leg than you do, so know other length options are available as well as instructions to lengthen as needed. 

Through Wednesday May 22nd, when you buy Bexley, you can get 10% off the pattern or 15% off the pattern + video. No code needed, the prices are already discounted for you! 

The best thing about a knit dress are the endless styling opportunities! Since three sleeve lengths are included in the pattern, Bexley can work year round. I'm looking forward to making one in the fall to pair with tall boots and a scarf! 

Bexley in Pink

You knew I couldn't stop with just one Bexley Dress, right?!? We had a pink vibe going when Melissa and I were sewing up final samples of the Bexley Dress released by Blank Slate Patterns. I showed up to the photo shoot in a pink floral with a bright pink sample for our cover model, and Melissa showed up in a pretty pale pink. There's proof over on Instagram. 

I didn't show off the back in my last Bexley post, so here's a peek at those back darts that end just at the waist to give that nice fitted look up top and comfortable room below. We've included a center back seam to allow for easy fit adjustments too. 

This pretty floral fabric is brushed poly from Joann Fabrics. It's perfect for a sweet summer dress, and the print isn't so bold that you loose the dress details. 

Not only did I have the privilege of sewing up the model's sample; I also took the pattern cover photos. Melissa reached out to Arianne via Instagram to be a cover model. I don't think I had one bad photo of her which made narrowing down options pretty touch. She has amazing style!!

I'm hoping she gets lots of wear out of this pink dress, because the color is oh so good on her. The fabric is Telio Stretch Bamboo Rayon Jersey in Rapture Rose. The weight and stretch of this jersey are perfect for the Bexley Dress.

Now is the perfect time to add the Bexley Dress to your pattern stash! Blank Slate Patterns is currently running a summer sale. Buy one pattern, get one 50% off with code SUMMER19.

** This post contains affiliate links. By purchasing through my links, I receive a small compensation which I will in turn use to share more inspiration with you.**

Bexley Dress for Winter

Do you wear many dresses in winter? When it gets really chilly I tend to avoid them, but I figured the right fabric would help insulate me from the cold. Since french terry is perfect for cozy sweatshirts, I wanted to give it a try for a dress. I love my summer Bexley dresses, so I also wanted a winter version. 

French terry is definitely not on the list of suggested fabrics for the Bexley Dress. The pattern is designed for knit fabrics with a lot more drape. While I knew this particular french terry met the pattern stretch requirements, I also knew it wouldn't lay the same way on my body. The great news is that the alteration to make it work is super simple!!

All it took was lowering the front and back darts, so they wouldn't sit too high. The pattern even includes instructions on raising and lowering darts! Keep in mind this is a thin to medium weight french terry. Anything too thick would make the darts too bulky.

Another option would be to omit the darts all together for a more swing-y shape.

I'm super thankful for the more mild winters we have in Texas, but I still want to stay cozy as those temperatures dip!