The Swallowtail top and dress was released by lil luxe collection last week!! And how awesome is it that we got to test this sweet delicate dress!?!

I love the Swallowtail pattern description on their website “This vintage inspired pattern is everything a girl could ask for: sweet, breezy and topped with a bow!” Absolutely true!!!

Oh but that bow! and that open back! sigh!! I love it so very much!

For the bodice, I used a loosely woven handloom fabric from Fine Fabrics Atlanta (They don’t have a website), it is so soft so perfect for this pattern, and I love how those ties drape over her back rather than stand out stiffly. And for the skirt, this denim jacquard from JoAnn fabrics.

Contrary to what I first thought, this pattern comes together rather quickly. And has two things that I’ve grown to really appreciate and look for, in sewing patterns: Extremely well drafted pattern pieces, and beautiful finishing techniques (even on the inside).

Right before we went for pictures, I was possessed by a need to make a top knot headband for her and I’ve never really made headbands and accessories lol! Since I was using woven fabric and didn’t want to fuss with elastic, I shirred about 5 inches of the headband with several rows of elastic thread in the center back.

Watching my little one in clothes that I made is truly gratifying, and that experience is even more rewarding when the pattern used is as well drafted and clearly explained as this one!

The swallowtail Top and Dress come in sizes 18m – 10y with options for a top, knee length dress or Maxi dress.  With no need for zippers and buttonholes, its a great beginner’s pattern, not to mention quick-sew. It has beautiful feminine flutter sleeves that I totally left out for this dress 🙂

Until next time… Happy Sewing!!!