Flip This Pattern – The Franklin Dress

I’m sure you have already heard about the buzz: The Flip this Pattern is back over at Frances Suzanne!

Last season, my flip of the Round Around Romper (by The Cottage Mama) was the most voted so I got the opportunity to make a come-back! This time I had the chance to play with the Franklin dress pattern from the lovely Erin from the Brooklyn Pattern Company.

For testing purposes I received a complimentary copy of this pattern to sew, flipped or unflipped, but obviously I “need” to sew it both ways 😉

I did started with an unflipped version of this dress, partly because I wanted to test the sizing and explore some of the construction details and partly because I really love this pattern as it is (I wouldn’t change a bit).

I had my eyes set on this pattern for quite a long time so now I got the perfect excuse to finally get it done ❤

My favorite versions of this dress are made with plain colors (I have a huge weakness for chambray and linen versions), but I wanted to make this “my” version – so I picked a floral print (Vayella, of course) and paired with a lace trim for the front yoke.

The result was pretty delicate and feminine (in my opinion). Obviously, the floral print was not the best option for showcasing the beautiful pintucks at the front yoke but you can’t always have it all, right?.

This dress is as beautiful as I’d imagine and it was actually a breeze to sew. If you’re worried about the pintucks, don’t be. They aren’t scary at all (and just a couple on each side) and the final result is totally worth the (small) challenge.

I find the back as lovely as the front of this dress – the soft gathers add a bit of balance and add to the overall sweetness of this pattern.

Obviously, my husband is my number one fan (how could he not be) yet this dress really got high marks from him. He loved everything about it, specially the way it look so girly and age-appropriate on our girl. I couldn’t agree more.

This pattern is perfect for seasonal wearing – it works greats with tights and a coat when the weather is a bit chilly, but it’s lovely with a collar blouse and knee-length socks for warmer months (the original pattern also includes a short sleeve version).

Based on the above, making a flip of this pattern was not an easy task. I wanted to keep every little detail – the pintucks, the soft gathers, the much-loved side pockets …

So, my flip was actually just a few teaks to make the patter a little easier to sew (off with the pintucks) and to fill a gap in my girl’s (summer) wardrobe: tunic length with cap sleeves.

I couldn’t missed the opportunity to use a remnant of Liberty (less than 1/2 yard) and let my girl pick the buttons (cherry red, of course).

To be honest with you, I still prefer the original dress version – although I’m sure my girl would choose the tunic (even if her beloved side pockets are missing from this version) …

Either way, I let you be the judge …

If you feel inspired to sew this dress – flipped or unflipped – check Frances Suzanne for a coupon code for the Franklin dress and while you are there don’t forget to take your chance with their giveaway as well.

Until the end of the month, everyone can join the linky party! So don’t wait too long to join this month competitors (voting will take place at the end of the month, so don’t forget to check back) 😉

Thank you so much Emily&Ashley for the flip-invitation and another great Flip This Pattern season and Erin for such a wonderful pattern!

Happy sewing,

xx Ana Sofia