So, a long while ago I got this cute vintage cotton on eBay. It was a lot of yardage for a good price. When it arrived I wasn't sure I liked it too much after all, so it sat on my shelf for a long time. Finally I decided to use it as a trial for a house dress pattern I'd also had on my sewing queue for a long time. 

The pattern is simple, with a scalloped or plain asymmetrical front opening and optional scalloped patch pockets. I wasn't sure I would be able to nurse in a side opening front, but decided to try it. If it worked, it would be a nice change from the traditional button front dresses I have been using. 

Even with all the yardage, the fabric was narrow enough that I used most of it. And I also do not enjoy cutting out so many pieces – the bodice pieces meant I had to cut each one out single layer, and as usual I got the facings the wrong way and had to recut them!

It was quite straightforward sewing…I was not quite sure how much I would like it, but plowed through and finished it anyway. 

When I tried it on before hemming, I was surprised to find that I liked it on me quite well after all!

I also found the neck was too low, so I hand stitched on a piece of white eyelet lace to fill it. Another time I would simply add another scallop and cut the neck higher. 

The busy fabric kind of hides the scallops a bit, so I chose large buttons to help emphasize it, and top stitched around the neck (keeps the facing in place handily too!)

Also, in case you are curious, it did work for nursing access.

The pockets have functional buttonholes. Obviously you have to unbutton them in order to use them properly, but I do like that when buttoned shut they don't catch on cupboard door handles and tear. Plus they are so cute when buttoned like that. 

This is probably the only brown thing I've made all year. My fall sewing looks to be pretty nonexistent this year since my schedule is way too crowded, and fall is when I usually break out any earth toned fabric I may have, so this may be my only brown sewing project until later this winter. But it's a fun one!

The print is so unique. I like the splashes of salmon and blue and green that liven up the brown. That's what I like about vintage fabric – their color combinations are so unexpected and unique! It is a thinner vintage cotton, however, and does need pressed before wearing – which means I wear it less than I might otherwise. 

I took photos in my mom's new retro kitchen in front of her amazing yellow and white 1950s stove (as nice to cook with as to look at!), but the sunshine coming in the window was a bit bright, so we also took photos outside. 

So even though I had moments of boredom with this project, thinking I wouldn't like it that much, it's a good lesson in why to persevere. You may love the result after all!