Sew The Look: White Linen Dress

[@sewfit4you219]

I love your white dress. I bought the Lyric Dress pattern today. Can’t wait to make it.

[@TomKatStitchery]

It’s such a good one!

[@ladylouise1969]

Love the dress!! Beautiful, perfect for Spring and Summer! :+) Also, love the top-I have to get mine cut out-right now I'm sewing some slacks, and finishing up some things on a top I'm making. We were in Ohio for a few days visiting my oldest brother who just turned 80, and his wife. We had a lovely time. They live in Amish country, so it was a lot of fun for me to be around so many horses, and they were all so nice and friendly. We didn't want something to happen that we didn't get to see them before one of us died-as when my second oldest brother died in Feb. it had been 1 1/2 years since I had seen him because of Covid-then he died from it. I hadn't seen my oldest brother since our mother died 9 years ago, as he cannot travel. :+( Good times were had! Great vid as always, and gorgeous top-that is YOUR color!! Have a wonderful week!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I’m so glad you got a chance to visit your brother! If nothing else, this darn pandemic has shown me how important it is to make time to see family!

[@ladylouise1969]

This is true! 😎

[@janematthews6579]

I don't even have to watch the video to comment that your white dress is absolutely stunning on you! It's my favorite thing you have ever made and modeled 🧵.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you so much! That’s so lovely to read!

[@nancynord260]

I have the same problems you do with being full busted. I am older now and sleeveless is not an option! The dress is a perfect summer dress and I definitely want to make one. Thanks for the inspiration.

[@TomKatStitchery]

My pleasure!

[@nanastevens4094]

Really nice pattern, looks great on you. Nothing like a good shirt dress.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you and I agree!

[@lisashoemaker2781]

Love this dress! Stylish but cool and breezy. Accentuates your waist.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thanks, Mom!

[@khinekhine613]

Can you pls do sway back adjustment tutorial for dummies like us? You are the only great teacher we could understand.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I definitely can!

[@victoriahannah1633]

Beautiful dress and looks very nice on you. You are not alone. I am just under 5ft 2inches and am also busty.

[@TomKatStitchery]

It can be a challenge!

[@SconesAndTea]

You look great in the white linen dress!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@cherylp.3347]

Such a flattering shape to that dress! I was looking at a video of it a couple days ago and then I realised I own it. Then it came up on the Friday $5 pattern. Must be a sign for me to sew it! 😂 I’ve printed it off today.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Definitely! I’ve been sitting on it forever as well. It’s a good one!

[@barbaramckenzie326]

Your dress is beautiful but I had a flashback to some of my uniforms in my early years as a nurse. But with the right accessories, it's a beautiful summer dress!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That’s so funny! We had to wear white dress in my sorority for our “ritual” nights and I totally had a flashback to those days for a bit (we did not like wearing them 😂). It’s all about the accessories!

[@liza_lou]

You found so many inspiring dresses, love your version!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@ruthlanwarne8978]

I used an ordinary bra and removed the straps and replaced with clear plastic. It’s very easy to do and really solves the issue. 😃

[@TomKatStitchery]

That’s a very clever fix!

[@amandalehnertz7319]

I love this dress in white! Also I haven’t heard about love notions and how they do cup sizes! As a small busted girl, I have had a heck of a time learning how to do small bust adjustments. I’ll definitely check them out!

[@TomKatStitchery]

You should! Itch to stitch is another one that does great things with cup sizes (A cup to DD cup).

[@audreywring1920]

Love the dress. Horizontal buttonholes is a must for me. The problem that I have with vertical buttonholes, fine when I am standing with plenty of room but on sitting gap, even if the buttonhole placement is correct at the apex. Having to sew more buttonholes or use snaps is annoying.

[@TomKatStitchery]

So far, I’m really enjoying the horizontal buttonholes! I may be a convert!

[@MeganGMakes]

I have a linen Lyric dress cut out too - but black, instead of white. I know black isn't one of the capsule colours but I couldn't find any navy, and I have a toddler so I'm essentially a walking napkin at this stage in my life. 😂

[@TomKatStitchery]

😂 I remember those days! This dress will be lovely in black!

[@amierikke6225]

I’m very impressed with Love Notions! I did their Melody Dolman shirt sew along and had a great time doing it and it turned out great! I haven’t sown in many years, and the sew along was a wonderful way to get my sewjo going. I now have many of their patterns and I’m anxious to sew up more. Your Lyric is wonderful!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I totally agree about Love Notions. They are a great company!

[@christinafisher6244]

I was hoping you would have a video about this dress today! I was looking late last night at today’s feature Friday and my measurements are so so close to yours (my height is 5’4”) so I always love to see what you do! I also discovered when I went to buy this pattern that I already have it! 🤣 time to make it I think!

[@TomKatStitchery]

Isn’t that the best?!! 😂 I’m so thankful they have that “you already own this” feature!

[@shaunaferguson6102]

Love this!! Gorgeous on you! Can't quite embrace the white linen because did the see through factor but I Loooove how it looks!! I found some white cotton twill thar has wonderful drape so I'm branching out to use that on a white button down!

[@TomKatStitchery]

That sounds great for a button up!

[@cjane51]

Thanks Whitney. I’m off to buy the pattern

[@TomKatStitchery]

It’s a good one!

[@karynbray1004]

OMG, I think I just realized I need a sway back adjustment....I'm 5'8" but a pair of legs with a head stuck on top of a short torso....I get the wrinkle across the top of my bodice back all the time! Makes me crazy!!! I cant wait to try it!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

My sister is built just like you. She also needs a sway back adjustment!

[@cathykieser53]

Oh man I love everything about this. I was going to mention that it seemed the pockets were too close together. And you really look great in this style. Thanks for sharing and the inspiration

[@TomKatStitchery]

I agree about the pockets. I need to readjust those!

[@monicacorr6979]

There is a nice sleeveless white linen dress at Pattern Scout

[@TomKatStitchery]

Ooh! I'll have to take a look!

[@joannelabryn7531]

i have the same earrings, got them at JoAnns for a real bargin. love your channel.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I got mine from Amazon for quite a deal as well!

[@SewJoei]

Hi Whitney, do you have a video on how to do a sway back adjustment please?

[@TomKatStitchery]

I don’t, but I can definitely do one!

[@SewJoei]

@@TomKatStitchery That would be most helpful. Thanks so much 😊❤

[@quiltygal6981]

I have this pattern but like you have never made it. I'm not a dress person but I think this is beautiful. As a fellow busty and short girl I know what you mean about getting swamped. I have flashbacks to the late 60s early 70s with smocks!! I spent my early teens looking pregnant. 🤣🤣

[@TomKatStitchery]

The large chest and short torso make the pregnant look all too easy! 😂

[@Escape10mom]

Isn't Love Notions the best?? Your white Lyric is so pretty! I've only made 2 peplums. Next is a dress on my list!

[@TomKatStitchery]

They are so great! They are definitely one of my favorite companies!

[@evalucilledixon3879]

Great style on this dress. Looks great without a collar but I expect that a collar could easily be installed at the neckline (to draw the eye upward). This dress will look great wrapped in a belt. Topped with a Blazer--perfection. Really nice pattern. ~ L

[@TomKatStitchery]

You’re right! A collar would be lovely added!

[@dianem8358]

Love love this dress! It looks sooo good on you! I've had this pattern for a while and intend to make it soon after seeing yours. Do you have a tutorial on making a sway back adjustment? If not, would love to see you make one especially with waist darts. I enjoy your channel...you are so talented at getting your garments to fit so well. Thanks for all your hard work!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I don’t have a sway back video, but I can definitely film one!

[@dianem8358]

@@TomKatStitchery Great! That would be so helpful! Thanks!!

[@Nannypie2]

Thank you for sharing your Lyric make. I’ve looked at this pattern for a while but couldn’t see past the simple lines. I think I’ll give it a try. Do you think you can include that sway back adjustment in a video? I’m definitely a visual learner. Thanks!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I can definitely do a sway back adjustment video!

[@cindywinkler4172]

You look fabulous!! Some people pay to be full busted, but I have the same issues 😂

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you. That is very kind!

[@denisedorsey2889]

The dress turned out so lovely. The Lyric is next for me. I bought the pattern last year when they had their big sale. My sewing skills have improved over the past year and I now feel more confident so I’m going to give it a go. I will toile the bodice of course. Do you have a video where you show how to do that type of hem? I’m completely unfamiliar with that but I love how it looks. I guess I could just search you tube for something. Thanks for this.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I’m doing this hem on a shirt tail hem, but it’s very similar: kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6rGhqSVp7Ktp6c . You can make your bias tape or use store bought! I’ve folded my bias tape in half for this one, but you can also use bias tape that’s sewn 1/4” in on each side for a similar effect with less bulk!

[@denisedorsey2889]

@@TomKatStitchery Thanks so much!

[@krisl.4200]

This is one of my favorite looks on you, Whitney! The fit is superb. LOVE the white linen - perfect for the pattern and your coloring. And, the pockets are in just the right place to cover your grey underwear :) Do you know if LN has altered the fit of the re-released pattern OR just increased the size range? I never thought I'd need a swayback adjustment, because I have no butt! Thanks for that suggestion, I'll go play around with it and see how well it works on my body. Have a great weekend, and thanks for sharing!

[@TomKatStitchery]

It was just a rerelease for the extended sizing. If you’re in the original size range and have already downloaded it, you should be good!

[@krisl.4200]

@@TomKatStitchery Thanks! I downloaded it when it came out.

[@donnaschindlbeck7457]

Oh my goodness Whitney! I ❤️ this dress on you! You have opened my eyes to linen too. I finally ordered some. Can you do a video on how you do the swayback adjustment for bodice/skirt patterns? I’ve only done it on top patterns thus far. And, I love the Genelly top/ neckline on you, it frames your face beautifully. P.S. moving the pockets out will give your dress more balance 😊

[@TomKatStitchery]

I can definitely do a sway back adjustment video!

[@thebebejebus]

Have you every thought about putting your measurements and what size you make in the description? I always have to re watch your videos to catch the size again! Loveeee the lyric dress, such a bargain.

[@thebebejebus]

Oooooops just re read your description!!! Sorrryyyyyy. Just the size you made then. :)

[@TomKatStitchery]

I can totally put the size in my description box going forward! I actually just recently (in the past month or so) added my measurements to the bottom of the description box!

[@helenwood3199]

I would love to see a printed long scarf used as your belt/sash on your white dress. Do you find you need to wear a slip with the white linen?

[@TomKatStitchery]

That’s a great idea! As long as I have on proper nude underwear I don’t usually see a need for a slip with white linen, but I’m sure it’s all about your comfort level!

[@juleejames9977]

What a pretty dress! You look lovely. Would you wear this with a matching fabric belt - like Sian does? I'm thinking about making this in navy or red and getting a belt made.

[@TomKatStitchery]

It would be gorgeous with a fabric belt! I’ve recently found a company in the US that does the fabric covered belts (like Harlequin does for Sian). I’m really curious to try them out!

[@cindyking3304]

Beautiful Dress!!! I was looking over your shoulder and saw some swim suits, I think??? I know you did a video on one not to long ago. Are those new patterns? Thankyou for your wonderful videos!!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I have been doing some swimsuit sewing! I have two more to make and then I’ll share them!

[@g.leegander]

How do you make and place all those buttons/buttonholes? Doesn't that take a lot of planning and time? They look so perfect and even - I have a blouse I made and still have not finished the buttonholes and buttons!!!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I use a Simflex ( www.wawak.com/Cutting-Measuring/Tapes-Rulers/simflex-expanding-sewing-gauge/?sku=TA49 ). I put the garment on and mark the fullest part of my bust (where I definitely want a button) and then I expand the Simflex from that point and it marks perfectly even button placements. You can see me do it in this sew along video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6uukqONrKiZpZo

[@k.s.1737]

Thank you for the video and all the white dress ideas. I love the white dress shown at 7:10 on the video. Can you provide a link to the original source? Thanks.

[@k.s.1737]

I found the dress on your Pinterest page. Thanks.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Oh good!

[@karenclement743]

I did not catch how you did the hem with the bias tape. Could you briefly tell me? We are both 5'2"!Karen Clement love your show

[@TomKatStitchery]

I have a video here where I’ve used the bias tape to do a shirt tail hem, but it’s the same process! kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6rGhqSVp7Ktp6c

[@southerncrossstitches]

We’ll that didn’t take much to convince me to get the Lyric Pattern ☺️

[@TomKatStitchery]

😂oh good!

[@shericollette2185]

Do you pre-wash your linen? Thank you for all your channel and wealth of information.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I do! I wash and dry it in the machines before I cut into it. Going forward, the dress will be washed in the machine on delicate and hung to dry. When it’s pretty much dry, I throw it in the drier for about 5 minutes to just soften the fabric!

[@kiesha7939]

I really like the dress....i wonder if I already own the pattern do I hv to buy the patterns again to get the extended size range?

[@denisedorsey2889]

No you won’t need to repurchase. You will need to download the new one. It should already be in your account.

[@TomKatStitchery]

Denise is correct. If you already own it, the new pattern will be in your account, you’ll just have to download it again!

[@cecilehoare3053]

I actually deleted the email from Love Notions since I already had the Lyric, but I quickly dug it out and went on their site to download it again for the extended sizes!! I didn't read the email just the name so I almost missed getting the sizes that will actually fit! Guess what, dress #8? lol I printed off one of the big 5 this morning but I think since this is basically the same style with putting the front bodice and skirt on the fold, it will likely fit better! Now to get a new printer cartridge! lol When you mentioned the pockets my thought was, if you wear it with a woven leather belt any coloured belt it would draw your eye away from the pocket line, problem solved! Sorry if I woke you this morning! I didn't look at the time when I messaged you.

[@TomKatStitchery]

You didn’t wake me! Message me anytime 😉. I’m loving this wedding dress journey!

[@cecilehoare3053]

@@TomKatStitchery in that case, check your TomKat email! lol

[@cynthiatennant9896]

Great sew the look! What sites are you looking at for your sew the looks? There were so many pretty ones that were good inspiration. I don’t find that as much. Thanks!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I usually hit up Pinterest and then “shop” J.Crew, Madewell, Sezane, Everlane, Boden and a few others as well!

[@cynthiatennant9896]

Thank! I will try them also 🤗

[@bubbles2746]

This looks lovely .I'm also busty so I usually end up sewing the button plaque closed so there is no gaping, but I suspect with the right cup size I won't have to.Ill give it a try, such a lovely dress. PS, it looks like you're wearing the Glenelly top from Itch to stitch?

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you! I’m really enjoying wearing the dress! That is the Glenelly you see!

[@thaisoneon]

I love this (and your videos!) but cannot wear a defined waist. How difficult do you think it might be for an advanced beginner to alter the pattern to an empire waist?

[@TomKatStitchery]

It’s a bit tricky, but doable. You would need to attach the bodice and the skirt together (don’t forget to eliminate the seam allowances), mark your new waist seam, cut and add in the seam allowances. You’ll have to add dart bulk to the skirt and then either sew a dart, or rotate that into the swing of the skirt.

[@thaisoneon]

@@TomKatStitchery thank you so very much. I’ve wanted to try that alteration so many times but didn’t know what I didn’t know. Now I know at least the theory about what I need to do.

[@kelleyking]

Love! 💕

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@christinamo7]

curious - what weight linen do you think is best for a dress that you want to have some movement to the skirt?

[@TomKatStitchery]

My favorite dress weight linen is the vintage wash linen by The Fabric Store and it’s 4 oz. It has great movement!

[@Northandsouthsewing]

Nice! Which sleeves did you make? The ones with the peplum or the regular short sleeve?

[@TomKatStitchery]

These are the regular short sleeves!

[@TheSliverleaf]

Love the dress! Yes I think I too would move the pockets, no could not see your underwear 😂 and question- I’m 5’ 11” would the rule of using half the measurement for length work the same way for someone like me? So if drafted for 5’6” I would add 2 1/2 inch to my hem? Thank you for doing your videos, I love them all

[@denisedorsey2889]

I agree about the pockets. The instructions for removing or adding length to the pattern are pretty clear. Generally you should measure the flat pattern and compare it to your own vertical measurements. Then see exactly where to add length. You may need an inch in the bodice and then another inch or so in the skirt. Or you may carry your height in your legs and need to add to the skirt only. Just be sure to true up your seams. Also I think best practices is for you to add/remove no more than an inch or so in any one place. Better to add/remove in two separate sections rather than say 2 1/2 “ in one place. Love Notions patterns give a lot of support in their instructions. I’ve only been sewing just over a year and I find their patterns to be very beginner friendly. Happy sewing!

[@TomKatStitchery]

I believe that, yes, generally, you’d want to add the 2.5”. Depending on where your height is, you could add it to the skirt or distribute it between skirt and bodice! I often have to take 3” out of a skirt when sewing and while I have to really redraw the skirt side seams, it always works. It would be the same for adding length!

[@anessaharris9947]

😃

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️

[@louisebaines3206]

How do you store your printed patterns?

[@TomKatStitchery]

Do you mean the PDFs that I’ve printed? I iron them flat with a dry iron and store them in 8.5”x11” manilla envelopes in a legal sized filing cabinet!

[@lindagraff2484]

Love this dress, looks great on you too

[@TomKatStitchery]

Thank you!

[@SconesAndTea]

Amen about the strapless bra! I can’t wear them but I found out the hard way - went to a very dressy event and my strapless bra ended up under my breasts. 😱😱😱

[@jgordy4840]

😁

[@TomKatStitchery]

I have been there!

[@PeachHoneyLove]

What about using boob tape?! I’m bigger chested as well and I’ve been wanting to try it.

[@TomKatStitchery]

I haven’t used or tried boob tape since college (when my boobs were much perkier 😂). I’m sure it’s come a long way since the late 90s, though!

[@lilybogaards5089]

💕

[@TomKatStitchery]

❤️❤️❤️