(So excited to be finally blogging this one!)
A couple of months ago I got the opportunity to pattern test the new Tilly and the Buttons pattern – an adorable pinafore dress called Cleo. It was perfect timing when I got that email as literally the day beforehand I was daydreaming about making myself a pinafore dress… Fate was definitely working in my favour!
This is another one of those simple but effective patterns. A really great quick project with a nice end result, you know? The instructions show you how to make a pinafore style button closure and a dungaree buckle style as well as coming in 2 lengths for either a mini or midi version. I, of course, opted for the mini version with pinafore buttons.
I made mine with a navy blue ponte jersey with a white grid print with gold buttons.
Ta-da!
(The pattern has been changed slightly since I made this one – the straps are a bit wider now as is the front bodice panel and the hems are a little longer than shown.)
I love this dress (despite my rubbish pattern matching – I really tried though!). Mostly because I can actually get it to fit me unlike every single RTW pinafore dress I’ve ever tried on… I’ve got a very short torso so everything is always a little too long in the shops. This is definitely one of the reasons why I love making my own clothes!
I’ve already got plans for a black needlecord version of Cleo next!
21 Comments
I love it 🙂
Thanks!! 🙂
Love your pinafore, had never thought of a ponte version but it looks great and must be more comfy than denim.
It definitely has a lot more give than denim would – much comfier! A heavier knit would work as well for this pattern. Would be really cosy for winter!
I want to make a pinafore dress too! Looks cute!
Go for it! It’s been one of my quickest and most satisfying sews to date!
Never too old. My husband was dubious when I told him I was making a pinafore dress but he likes it now it’s finished!
Very nice!! Love the fabric choice.
Thanks! 🙂
What do you mean, I think the pattern matching is good!! Loving the diagonal/bias accent pocket!
Lol. Just don’t focus on the centre fronts and backs! They’re off by a few mm!!
For some reason I think we’re the same height? (5.3 and a half???) did you shorten the pattern? I’m a bit too lazy to toile and I’m afraid I’ll take too much off! Thanks x
I’m 5ft2 so you’re pretty close! I didn’t shorten anything but this was the sample pattern not the finished version. The finished version has been lengthened by 4cm at the hem I believe, so if you’re happy with how the body looks on me, I’d cut it as is and then trim any extra of the hem if you want it shorter.
Very cute! I like the contrast of the pocket!
Love this in that fabric, your adaptation has worked well as the bib fits perfectly- look forward to seeing the needle cord one , fab for winter time
Love how you did the pockets! Great design details! And using Ponte is a great idea. I’d wondered if it could work and clearly does!!
Thanks! 🙂
That is really cute!
Thanks! 🙂