My latest installment in my Polka Dot Project – after making a 1940s 2 piece outfit, a New Look dress, and a 1950s dress among others – was to jump back to the 1940s using a pattern long on my to-do list.

It actually was a very quick and easy one to make, though not boring, and an enjoyable process.

I used this pattern, and just had to try the unusual sleeves for this dress, though I wasn't sure I would like them as well as the plain 3/4 sleeves.

Though this is clearly a 1940s pattern, I think the big sleeve option was included as more of an evening dress style, when more fabric was allowable. But I barely squeezed them out of the fabric – they take a lot of fabric! I ended up having to take a few inches out of the width in order to fit everything before cutting.

The side pleat adds some graceful interest, as well as a bit more width to the otherwise WWII slender skirt.

These cute buttons I had in my stash mirrored the dots!

And this was my first project after getting our serger, long buried, in use. I love it! And how tidy it makes the inside of the dress! (Yes, that's another hand-picked zipper – my go-to way to insert zippers now.)

The widely scattered polka dot fabric, in three shades of dots, made for a versatile dress as far as accessorizing goes. First I paired it for a more casual look with a self belt and flower brooch, straw clutch, and espadrilles.

Then to show its possibilities in a more formal setting, I tried it with black accessories.

Note: I'm wearing the seamed nylons I tell you how to make in my August Tutorial.

This is the first airing of a hat I got a while ago and haven't had a chance to wear until now.

I did cut a few corners that I wish I hadn't – namely interfacing the belts. 

But I do like how the bow as shown in the pattern illustrations emphasizes the asymmetrical interest in the skirt. (Though I didn't realize until after the pictures that the bow wasn't straight. Grrr.)

The sleeves were a bit of a pain to wear, but I ended up liking how they look, which is the important thing. 🙂

My Polka Dot Project might have to take a back seat for a few weeks since I have non-polka dot sewing with a deadline to get done and another ensemble I am itching to work on after the deadline, but I still have plans for adding polka dots to my wardrobe over the next few months! I want to explore their possibilities as contrast and trim too.

But for now I was pleased to cross another pattern off my to-do list and end up with a fun summer dress in a fresh version of that versatile print.