This dress is very oversized. The sleeves fit like a drop-shouldered garment. You may need well-shaped shoulder pads to allow the dress to hang correctly. The waist should be 12" to 14" larger than your own with the band fitting just above your natural waistline. If you desire, add mitten clips to the back for more shape. The skirt is long and wide. Adding a band at the hemline adds weight so the skirt will move well. Stripes or a striped pattern print work great because you can reverse the pattern for the bands. Designer, Mary Lou Rankin, likes this dress out of a soft pastel rayon for summer and cotton flannel for winter. Consider adding a loose short vest. You might also try omitting the sleeves and cutting the bodice into a jumper. This dress can be embellished or quilted with blocks or appliqu on the front bodice and bands. You can be very creative making this garment! If using plaids, cut the bands on the bias for an added design feature. Mix and match fabric to color block the dress. Add laces, trims, decorative stitches to change the look.

Options: Neck opening can be finished with single bias binding or double-fold bias binding. Dress can have inseam pockets or they may be omitted. Skirt can be pleated or gathered. Skirt can be hemmed or have a band added.