Cashmerette Avola Slip Dress

It’s the first of the month and that means another pattern from the Cashmerette Club has launched– the Avola dress & top. I received an advanced copy and was excited to make something fancy. In case you were wondering, my dog insisted on being a part of the pictures. I hope you enjoy that.

The Avola pattern includes options to make a top or dress, and have 1 inch wide fixed straps or 3/8 inch narrow adjustable straps. It includes a bust dart, cup sizes C-H, and center back seam. I chose the dress length with wide straps for my version. I wanted to make a slip dress that I could wear to a fancy function or dress down with a t-shirt underneath. This is a style I’ve wanted to try for a long time, but hadn’t found the silhouette I was looking for.

I made my usual Cashmerette size – 26 G/H. There’s a handy size calculator under their sizing guide. I used a mystery fabric that is slippery and has the drape of a rayon challis. I truly have no idea when or wear I got it. I really loved the color, so I jumped in without making a toile. While I am very happy with the final result, I struggled to mark the darts on this fabric. I tried a couple of different marking tools, but it was hard to get any of them to stay. Next time I’ll try marking on scrap fabric before I cut out my pattern. Also, this fabric did not want to hold a press. I’ve ironed the final garment several times and you can’t even tell.

Overall I feel really good in this dress. It is comfortable without feeling restricting. My only struggle was with the fabric, and I think I know how to remedy that in the future. The instructions were clear and I’m excited to make a few more versions. I think this would look great in a large scale print or jewel tone solid. I love how my Rich Auntie liquid matte lip color from The Lip Bar looks with this dress. Now I just need an excuse to wear this combo somewhere.