I made a BETTER WALKAWAY dress (it wraps, it's reversible, it fits!)

[@dawnelder9046]

That would be great for travel. One side a lovely pattern of choice. The other black, for the little black dress.

[@karenfrances]

I like it, a day dress to evening dress! someone else suggested a swim coverup, so many good ideas.

[@jennifertridle8677]

What if you flipped the front fabric to the reverse. (Pink as back color and green as front color. The contrast would be summer fun and accentuate the high waist. I’m thinking how to attach the straps. Buttons? Hook and eye? Heavens, even safety pins 🧷 would work if the seams were finished. Your options would double for each dress made!! 🥰

[@PioneerGrandma]

I made a dress like this back in the 70’s, although it wasn’t reversible. I made mine ankle length. It had short sleeves, could wrap & tie in the front or in the back. Just a front, back, ties and a neck facing. Since it tied just under the bust, it was even great as a maternity dress. I wore that dress for years. I always wanted to find that pattern again… This is similar enough that I think I can lengthen it and extend the shoulders into sleeves. Hurray!!

[@karenfrances]

Your dress sounds wonderful, i hope you can recreate it. I was wondering how to put sleeves on, you have given me an idea for the next time I make it!

[@LivingALife4Me]

Can I suggest adding a channel to the back and putting a length of elastic in to add a little shape to the back whilst retaining the ease of wear and reversability?

[@karenfrances]

that's a great idea! i did notice the back looks more like a cape then a dress. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@LivingALife4Me]

You are welcome. Just thinking about an easy way of adding shape while keeping everything about it that is good x @@karenfrances

[@eileenmackin5382]

I love that blue side. The pink is nice but the blue is wow x

[@karenfrances]

The blue seems to be the favorite, thanks!

[@pjtfd3849]

It’s a beautiful color for her hair and skin

[@blueharrington1893]

Like both colors but the blue really looked great 👍

[@justpippyj]

You look so cute!!! I love the💕pink! Girl, add some whimsical pockets and I'm all in! Thank you!

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much 😀The pattern comes with another view with pockets, maybe I'll try that next!

[@silvakoopelian2216]

Wow that's great as I like pockets, How about sleeves and I like the reversible that you can have two dresses. What's the pattern number please. Great work well done

[@nadinewoods6971]

What a great idea to have snaps or buttons and make the backs and fronts interchangeable! I do like this better than the walkaway dress. The pink looks especially nice on you.

[@karenfrances]

Thanks Nadine! It's getting a little chilly to wear, but next summer. I'm thinking of trying it in a light weight wool to make it more like a pinafore, but I'm not sure how that would work.

[@quazylade90]

But the pieces are sewn together. If you can make it work without potential wardrobe malfunctions I would like to see.

[@debralarive]

Not sure why KZbin directed me here but it was enjoyable to watch and informative. 💜

[@karenfrances]

Well, I'm glad youtube guided you here! Thanks for your comment.

[@cathyfield4765]

The butterick pattern evokes the 1950's,while the Simplicity jiffy pattern is definitely a 60's look.

[@karenfrances]

Yes, I think it's from the 70's. You'd think they would have a new version by now.

[@capablemaria]

Yes, different style, the idea of the walkaway dress is that you can complete it very quickly. Nice to see some variety.

[@larryfoster]

Adorable!!

[@scrapbookingdiva]

Wow this is so nice. I think i want to make one as a swimwear cover up. I love it in pink. ❤

[@karenfrances]

A coverup is a great idea; it would be a perfect pattern for that. I"ll have to put it on my list, too.

[@beverlybeverly2040]

The white with blue polka dots is beautiful on you - really complements your coloring.

[@karenfrances]

aww, thanks! I"ll remember those colors.

[@Sno2Getti]

I agree. Prettier than the pink side.

[@dollmm23]

Very nice. So practical. Nice prints.😊

[@mamapillow8365]

Great job, love the colors you chose, especially the blue. I can tell you why the sides didn't match - some fabrics are a little more loosely woven and can change shape from handling. If your are worried about it in the future you can use spray starch when you first iron the fabric before you cut it. It will give it a little stiffness that helps when cutting and sewing but washes out when you wash the garment.

[@karenfrances]

Thanks for the tips! The pink fabric was heavier or thicker? than the white/blue it's starting to make sense to me.

[@feliciajones3394]

The dress is beautiful and I love the way it fit on you

[@karenfrances]

Thank yoU!

[@guillerminarodriguez2183]

Very pretty, colourful, versatile, comfy, fresh, ideal for traveling two dresses in one!!!!! Great job and you explain very well.

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much!

[@Azel461]

This video is so much like I sew and think about patterns and colors! I loved watching this video and it was encouraging. I have been sewing for myself for years and I still love my seam ripper; my most used sewing tool, second only to my scissors!

[@karenfrances]

My seam ripper has a special place in my heart. ha! :)

[@thecrackedcocoon5423]

I have made this before and it really is a true walk away dress!🎉

[@karenfrances]

It's a good pattern and with so many options!

[@jau2552]

You look amazing in your dress; great job!!

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much!!

[@beerich2117]

I have never seen a dress like that. Never heard of a "walk away" dress. You did a beautiful job. I like both colors, but the blue looks so nice on you. It is my favorite. 😊 I clicked on your channel because I wanted to see what you were making. Thank you for showing us this simple, yet unique dress. Watching from Ohio. Thanks for sharing.

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much! You are supposed to be able to make a walkway dress in the morning and walk away wearing it at lunch. This pattern is from the 70s, but the original is from the 50s. Thanks for watching!

[@mscherb2011]

It really looks good on you. Nice job!

[@functionoflightone]

You're absolutely right. This is a much more flattering pattern. The side plackets on the "walkaway"dress always looked odd when the woman was in motion because you know instinctively that that portion of the dress should not be moving. You chose wisely. Thank you for sharing.

[@karenfrances]

And thanks for watching, you make a good point with the motion of the dress.

[@DawnDavidson]

Love it in the blue! I might have suggested making your ties a plain white on both sides, so you had a plain white no matter which side was out. That would coordinate with both the polka dots, but be less “busy”. You’d still get the fun peekaboo of the other side when you walk, though. :) What might you think about flat lining or putting a layer of white between the fashion layers? Might help keep the pink from showing through the white background as much. Cute dress! PS: flatlining might also help stabilize the lighter fabric, too, since you mentioned the difference in fabric weights in another comment. It’s only needed with a sheer fabric like this, or when the two fabrics are noticeably different weights.

[@karenfrances]

I will look into the flatlining technique, I've learned so much this year. I would have liked to prevent the pint from showing through. thanks for the tip!

[@Chelle778]

It turned out really cute and is very flattering. Thank you for the great tutorial.

[@karenfrances]

You are so welcome!

[@CajunRose]

This is such a great alternative to the Retro Walk-away dress! The colors look so beautiful, together!!

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much!

[@elviem1934]

Wow, great job! It looks very flattering!

[@karenfrances]

Thanks!

[@plantifulvegan4198]

I really liked it when she opened it up, the cut cut of that dress underneath looked great, youthful. the wrap around to me just added unnecessary bulk, maybe in a less stiff fabric. I wish I could sew like her, she is good.

[@texaspotterssculptors4658]

The white turquoise side looks better on you imo. more slimming and does not distract from seeing your face. Great job and thank you for sharing !!!

[@karenfrances]

Oh thank you! The majority like the turquoise. I found a new color for my wardrobe!

[@pamallen2498]

This dress is so cute, I may make one . I wear mostly pants, but this one seems it would fit my body very nicely. Thank you for finding this pattern and sharing. The picture that is with my comment, is my great grandson.

[@karenfrances]

thanks! and what an adorable great grandson, congrats!

[@roshandachark7820]

I like it, only thing missing are sleeves and pockets 😊

[@karenfrances]

Yes, I agree. I wonder how to incorporate pockets, maybe in the front like an apron. Thanks for the idea!

[@colleenbrookes-gain6662]

I think it's BEAUTIFUL.

[@mizg1595]

I ordered this pattern in women’s size 14-22. I’m glad it’s an empire waist, because I’m very short waisted so the wrap won’t be down around my hips!! I’m a novice sewer but you’ve inspired me. Thank you!

[@karenfrances]

Good for you! I hope it turns out alright. Reach out if you have any questions...happy sewing

[@mizg1595]

I do have a question! I just received my new pattern. It looks like the amount of fabric given is for only one side of the dress. So if it calls for 2 7/8 yard, I need that much for each of the two fabrics. So I will need nearly 6 yards of total fabric, yes?@@karenfrances

[@karenfrances]

@@mizg1595 I'm afraid so, it is a bit of a fabric hog.

[@mizg1595]

@@karenfrances That’s okay, it’s two dresses in one! 😊

[@MorrisonMonkeys]

I made this dress in the largest size and made the mistake of choosing a one-directional fabric, so I had to learn to pattern-match the fabric in a seam up the back. I still love the way it turned out, but it uses a lot of fabric. If you are making it in a smaller size, you probably wouldn't need the seem. It's the wrap-around that uses so much width.

[@bq1428]

Love the dress👍

[@karenfrances]

Me too!!

[@glendajones416]

Love it. IT MAKES YOU LOOK GREAT

[@karenfrances]

Thanks!

[@lizlafferty1278]

I checked our only pattern retailer in this part of our state...ALL sold out on this pattern, which looks great. Thanks for bringing this pattern, for REAL Women, to light. You did a great job on making the dress and it looks very good on you.

[@karenfrances]

You are so welcome! And thank you for your kind comments.

[@PattyMartin-yf5to]

I just love your channel. You are just an everyday person who loves to sew like I do. I have this pattern but have been scared to try it, but it looks so cute on you, and you like the way it feels. Thank you for giving me some courage. When I find the right fabric, I am going to give it a try! I also think one side being black is a good idea...

[@karenfrances]

Thanks for your comment. I actually made a black and yellow version with sleeves here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oXisloN-etObqbM Happy Sewing!

[@DvorahDavida5778]

I just ordered this pattern. It's awesome! Thank you for sharing!!!

[@karenfrances]

Hope you enjoy making it!

[@rufinaperez8500]

It really complements you in every way. Good look on you.

[@karenfrances]

Thank you for such a lovely compliment! :)

[@maegardnermills4292]

Thank you it is simply beautiful. I would have more than one.

[@karenfrances]

You are so welcome!

[@esferundito]

wow!! what a great idea for summer!! I would suggest - front & back with stamps in contrast - such as white + blue dots on front& blue + white dots on back -- and for the other side the similar with other colors... such as black & white.. Thanks for sharing this project!!

[@karenfrances]

That's a good idea. Thanks for your comment!

[@barbaracoleman9215]

I love this pattern!!! You gave me hope at ever wearing a walk away dress!

[@karenfrances]

Good to hear! :) I'm bringing mine to the beach next weekend.

[@vanessajones3508]

I love the way your dress turned out. Very pretty.

[@karenfrances]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@dogsinolga]

Thanks! I will look for the pattern today!

[@juanitacrocker2474]

I bought that pattern when it first came out! I still have it and never sewed it yet, had trouble understanding the instructions if i remember correctly. But maybe i can get a better idea of how it goes together now and i may actually be able to get it done...😊 thanks for showing it and talking about it.

[@karenfrances]

Thanks for your comment. It's a fun pattern, i hope you try it. I plan to make it again. i wonder how it would work in wool...

[@jmsmom67]

I have seen this pattern and have considered getting it. I think I will get it and give it a try. Thank you for sharing this

[@karenfrances]

Wonderful!

[@lindapearson2376]

Thanks for sharing this! I am always looking for comfortable dresses to make. Love the pattern! Plus, the fact that you can make it reversible is amazing! Also enjoy the little “peek” of the other color. Thanks again! Really appreciate it!

[@karenfrances]

Thanks for your comment! It's a fun dress and so far, comfortable.

[@imamonstr]

Thank you so much for sharing !! Totally want to try this !

[@karenfrances]

You should!

[@verity4013]

It looks lovely on you! Well done!!

[@karenfrances]

thank you!

[@cynthiaLibrarian]

I was impressed that the reversed fabric did not show thru! :)

[@karenfrances]

me, too! because the white fabric is very light weight. :)

[@yasmin7903]

I love the dress on the second side even more!

[@karenfrances]

so do most people!

[@ginasmitasin479]

Try this in a knit. I made one in the 70’s of a mint green knit but it was the one with all of the bias tape and shaped like dress number 2. I made it in a day. It didn’t gape and was fun to make.

[@karenfrances]

i never thought of knit, good idea.

[@sharonhughes588]

Love the whole idea! Thank you for sharing!

[@karenfrances]

thank you!

[@kimbeckner9240]

I love this! ❤ I have never heard of such a dress, although I have made them for kids, 😂. I think I would make one with complimentary colours, so the flash of colour that pops in a breeze, looks like a yummy surprise! Thanks for sharing!

[@karenfrances]

And thanks for your comment, it's always nice to hear from fellow sewers!

[@nryane]

It looks great on you. I especially like the white with the aqua dots for you. Thanks for doing this.

[@karenfrances]

The aqua dots were from a mystery box and fit so well with this project!

[@Jennifer_Lewis_Beach_Living]

I really like this, and I love how it’s reversible. Like some of the commenters mentioned, this is a great dress for travel because you get two for the price of one.

[@karenfrances]

I totally agree! Someone also mentioned it would make a great beach coverup, i wonder if I could do it in terry... thanks for your comment!

[@cindywinkler4172]

I love how it turned out

[@karenfrances]

Thanks!

[@kattybob1749]

I made this dress for my sister back in April to wear to a destination wedding in Fiji, two dresses for one, less clothes to pack. She never received it. This dress broke my sew jo. I have only started sewing again at the beginning of November. I HATE this dress! Donated the pattern to a thrift shop, good riddence. Green and purple, I had so much optimism when I started. Glad it did work for you. It took a lot of fabric, and I am not sure if I should still give it to her, or cut it up for the fabric.

[@karenfrances]

Yikes! I've had patterns like that, where I never want to see again. I am glad you started sewing again.

[@Avotts]

I like yours a lot. Stephanie lives the more vintage look. She concentrates on them a lot. I had searched online just for walkaway dress. I found a few different ones. The one from my birth year is 6655 and is similar to the challenge one but different. I have qualms about any of them to wear myself. I have a medical issue where my spare tire is much larger on oneside than the other. It really causes me a lot of distress in choosing clothing.

[@karenfrances]

I like vintage, but more 60s through 80s, just like me. I know what you mean about having fitting issues, its hard enough without extra issues. I wish you all the best!

[@madelynpedrosa9830]

BEAUTIFUL… LOVE IT

[@caroltaylor4282]

You are so right about this pattern! Thank you for sharing this! Now if only I could get the pattern! Can’t find it in the Westcoast of Canada

[@karenfrances]

I hope you can find it! I’m so happy you found the video!

[@thelittleredbarnpreschool397]

Girrl!! That came out, TOO cute on you! I wanna make one with a scrub top to wear to work. I wonder it it'll work? I have the EXACT pattern in my sewing room but have never used it. I've always liked the concept of two simple outfits in one. Can you imagine how large you could make your wardrobe? Style and comfort! Thanks for the video.

[@karenfrances]

Thank you!! Apparently, alot of people have this pattern. You might be able to wear it to work with a shirt under?

[@MorrisonMonkeys]

I've made this dress twice and I love it!

[@56dh]

Your video just popped up & I purchased the pattern before the end of the video. Been wanting to make this dress for yrs. Tyfs. Subbed!

[@karenfrances]

Wonderful! I hope you like the pattern.

[@Biancalovestosew98]

Oh my goodness! This turned out fantastic!🤍 Subscribed!

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much!

[@RebeccaTreeseed]

Thank you. I just added this pattern to my next order. I haven't sewn for years, and now retired. This is a flattering style. I haven't worn darts in a long time, goodness knows I better check that location ;)

[@karenfrances]

Yes, the dart location is key as we age! I didn't lower them, but I did shorten them by about an inch. Thanks for your comment.

[@pattyespinoza8902]

You did a great job. The dress looks wonderful on you. I only make curtains now, haven't sewn any clothing since middle school, I may try it. Thank you

[@karenfrances]

Thank you so much!

[@sandieross905]

Lovely fit. Found the blue side more flattering. Well done

[@lorrainedempsey3320]

I actually bought that pattern a while ago, but I haven't made it yet. I think the blue polka dot side looks best on you. I think now, I will make this pattern. You did a great make. P.S. I love your sewing room.

[@karenfrances]

Oh thank you! Interesting how many people like the blue polka dot side, way more than the pink!

[@cometkatt]

made the butterick - just needed darts. but you are right about the bias binding . that was a pain in the tookus -- btw both sides look awesome but my fave is the blue & white

[@karenfrances]

I like the blue and white too, but am afraid it will get dirty fast

[@victoriajamieson3393]

Looks great on you and I love the colours!

[@Orpilorp]

Hello! That looks like so much fun. The aqua blue looks great with your red hair. I think it would be fun to make it shorter, as a vest. Maybe 2 cozy flannel patterns or plain, and a jersey knit top and slacks or skirt underneath. Thanks for sharing.

[@karenfrances]

Great idea!! It could be an interesting adaptation of the pattern. it's going on my list of new things to try!

[@waldfantom]

Well made! 👍👍 This dress suits you very well!

[@MommaSkelly]

That pink looks great on you!! I love the more modern look of the shape of the dress. Snaps sound great!! May have to see if i can find the pattern or Makeshift myself one up. I loved the idea of the walk away dress, but the one I made just wasn't ... modern enough.... this though may be the answer! Thanks so much for sharing. ♥ I may do a jersy knit one though just because I loathe Darts xD

[@karenfrances]

I like the idea of using knit, i also loath darts--i never can get them in the right place and they always turn out pointy. Thanks for the compliment on the pink, it's one of my favorite colors. Happy Sewing.

[@karlak.7862]

I have had this pattern in my stash for a while but now plan to pull it out and make it for summer.

[@karenfrances]

Nice! I'm glad.

[@lisamccloughry2335]

Adorable ❤ You remind me of me when I sew. Thank you for sharing!

[@karenfrances]

what a sweet compliment, thank you!

[@nldcam]

That is a really cute summer dress. Well done!

[@lacedreason]

Wow, i was skeptical about your fabric choice but both are gorgeous on you!

[@carolleenkelmann3829]

I've just had you landed on my tablet. 😂 Darlingheart, you are a scream. You remind me of a friend of mine, Barbara. She doesn't sew. But I will definitely be trying rget that Simplicity pattern. I already have the Butterick Retro but have been daunted by the amount of material it appears to require. I'm inspired to go find it and maybe even make it. I make my own bias-binding which is only tedious but not impossible. Thankyou for the vlog. The Jiffy is a great little throw-on dress. Super idea for the separation of the shoulders so that you can mix and match. 😊. Brilliant.

[@karenfrances]

This pattern takes a lot of fabric too, 5 to 6 yards

[@nancyloomis3046]

Never heard of walkaway dress, and not sewing much lately, but you were in my feed and your vid sounded interesting so I'm taking a look 👀😊

[@karenfrances]

I'm so glad!

[@cathyturinsky3407]

So cute!

[@AndrewZelenka]

I would love to see this in muslin

[@OceanDreamer59]

I agree! Something softer and airier❤

[@marypeterson1053]

It's so cute on you. I favor the pink.

[@karenfrances]

thanks! I like the pink, too

[@sheilaperl4155]

Lovely dress!!❤

[@karenfrances]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@tonyab27703]

Great job. Love fabric pattern choices

[@karenfrances]

thank you!

[@yogievillegas1142]

I have the pattern but I wasn't sure if I could make it,but thanks to you for making this video I will make it .. Thank you for sharing

[@karenfrances]

YAY, i hope you enjoy making it.

[@samgateoz1]

I do love how you show us walking OUTSIDE in the dress, and moving it. For I was wondering how much upper leg would be shown. Thank you.

[@karenfrances]

Next time I will have to provide a sitting from the side shot -- several people asked about that :^)

[@kishasworld]

Really nice dress

[@sharonlatour6230]

Very cute!!

[@virginiamahon2863]

You did such a great job with this and you look great in it! Thanks for sharing

[@karenfrances]

Thanks for watching and for the compliments!

[@LaughSewCreate]

Great job! I think this would be flattering on a lot of different figures. Thanks for sharing and your oopses too :)

[@karenfrances]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@dynamicguy202]

I want just wanted to let you know that after watching your video for this pattern, I went and bought the pattern at JoAnn's. I'm so glad that you made this video. Thank you.

[@karenfrances]

Wonderful! Just make sure you have enough fabric, reversible wrap dresses take a lot!

[@debbies6192]

What nice dress! Love this idea and the dress!

[@karenfrances]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@fondasharkey-wyatt9944]

I really like that!

[@rosalindabarrett7508]

Great ideas. Thanks for your research.

[@karenfrances]

Thanks for watching!

[@pjtfd3849]

I love this! You are built much like me, I bet it would fit me great too. I love the blue polka dots on you!

[@karenfrances]

It might! Fabric choice is important because the back can look a bit like a tent. the white is a very light fabric, the pink is more like quilting cotten.

[@Fuj109]

Very nice….I think I’m going to try making one. You looked terrific in your new dress!!! Good Job!❤️

[@karenfrances]

Thank you! It was a fun make.

[@KaylaBuhdayla]

This is CUTE!

[@cindyhappel7376]

Very cute and it looks great on you!

[@karenfrances]

awesome, thanks!

[@quazylade90]

I made that dress when I came back to sewing back in 2015/2016 and I still have it. I still want to make the walkway dress.

[@karenfrances]

I tried the walkaway dress and it wasn't much fun. I chose the wrong fabric though, might try again.

[@beekyw8716]

Making the front and back reversible as well to mix the patterns is such a fun idea!

[@karenfrances]

it turned out better than expected, too.

[@MommeeMadre1]

Stooooooop!!!!!! That IS a better version! If looks good! It flows beautifully!!!

[@karenfrances]

LOL, yup!