Lenox Shirtdress printed pattern
I don’t wear dresses. I just rarely ever do. But my attention was drawn by the Lenox, and it was by some sheer magic that it fit me so well. I did make changes based on my mock-up, shortening the length from shoulder to bust and making the sleeve a size smaller to account for the smaller armscye. I love how the whole dress fits, how the sleeve billows just a bit but doesn’t feel overwhelming, how the bust is fitted (to me! How did that happen?) but the back does not feel skin-tight. I’d highly recommend, even for someone, like me, who doesn’t wear dresses.
I had made two Lenox with the old pattern and several variations on Harrison. Between help I got from Cashmerette on fit problems and gaining experience using the Cashmerette patterns I’ve got my best size worked out. My first new Lenox turned out great! The bodice is the best fit I’ve ever had in a dress. So far, I’ve made the sleeveless version and one with the full bicep sleeve. The full bicep sleeve (from the sleeve expansion) along with choosing the right bodice size (down a size and up a cup size from what I’d tried before) gave me great fit. I’ve made all my new Lenox dresses with a shortened bodice to give me an empire waist. Lastly, I really like the new collar. It lays flat for me and looks good.
I have used the sleeve extension to make the Lenox into a winter dress, easy to follow instructions. The only slight issue I had was around the front armhole but that was because of my body shape not the pattern and I managed to resolve it. Would definitely recommend getting sleeves!
I have made this dress twice now, once in a slippery peach skin and once in an Oxford cloth. I love both versions. I think the fit is great for plus size ladies. I love that it's got a traditional collar option and how the sleeve is finished with a band. My peach skin version has a gathered skirt and a band collar. My Oxford cloth version has the pleated skirt and traditional collar. I really appreciate how versatile the feel of the dress is from the pattern based on the fabric I chose. Definitely a wardrobe winner for me.