Leopard Print Jersey Dress

Back in the day when I was much younger (and slimmer!) I made this dress in a Leopard print jersey fabric. It got sold on eBay and now has a new life in someone else’s wardrobe. However as I love the style and fancied re-visiting the Leopard print here is version 44 of my favourite dress pattern. I have re-positioned the bust and body darts and added a bias frill at the hem which I copied from a skirt pattern. I love this style hence it has been made up so many times! The original design from the magazine had very short cap sleeves and I have drafted 3/4 sleeves which are more forgiving on us “older” ladies. I also re-drafted the neckline to give a slightly deeper scoop at the front than on the original pattern. As there is some stretch in the fabric and I have cut with a generous amount of “ease” this dress is pullover style. Although not absolutely necessary as jersey fabric does not fray, I did overlock all the seams so now the dress is as good on the inside as it is on the outside.  With no zip the “making up” time is reduced and I can have a new dress soooo much quicker! Although we are now in March and fast approaching the Spring equinox the weather is not very spring-like so I shall be able to wear this dress with Black opaque tights for a few outings before putting away in the “Autumn” clothes storage box.

leopard print jersey