This month, I decided to make something I never ever thought I would wear: a form fitting dress. I usually shy away from anything remotely form fitting, but I was feeling brave and it turns out that having the ability to make it exactly how you want is a powerful thing. I may still have that mommy tummy I’m self conscious about, but I am so darn proud of this dress and can’t wait to rock it this summer. If you’re looking at this month’s Sew My Style patterns and thinking this challenge isn’t for you, I hope you take a second look because I am absolutely loving how easy it is to customize for yourself!

Of the two patterns to choose from for this month’s Sew My Style t-shirt challenge (Givre by Deer and Doe and Sheona by Athina Kakou), I said no to the Givre almost immediately because it was “close-fitting” and thought I’d make the Sheona. What changed my mind? I had to admit I didn’t need another t-shirt and the Givre, particularly the sleeveless version, would be better at filling holes in my wardrobe. Even if it was too form fitting, at the very least, I would have a cute tank top to wear under my York Pinafores. Because I had enough fabric, I ended up making the sleeveless dress with the same thought in the back of mind: I can always cut it to the top length if I ended up hating it.

Sleeveless Givre Dress. Shortened by 2.5 inches.

Even though I had that negative voice inside of my head throughout the process, I’m so glad I decided to go for it, because I absolutely love how it turned out. I graded it to my measurements (which I usually avoid since I’m a fitting newbie) and it made all the difference. It doesn’t ride up or bunch anywhere and it fits like a glove. I definitely won’t be cutting it down. The best part? It’s ridiculously comfortable and I feel amazing wearing it!

Sleeveless Givre Dress. Made with double brushed poly knit.

If you’re newer to knits, I would highly recommend the Givre pattern, especially the sleeveless versions. With very few pieces to cut, this pattern is extremely beginner friendly and easy to sew. Grading between sizes was easy peasy too. The hardest parts for me was topstitching and hemming, but a stretch needle and stretch stitch help a ton.

My second Givre. This time a tank top made with Art Gallery jersey knit.

You don’t have to make a t-shirt! If the original Givre pattern didn’t inspire you yet, here are several more ideas to make it your own. Several of these ideas could be transferred to the Sheona pattern too. (Keep in mind that any finished garment using one of the month’s patterns as the base is still eligible for the month end prize.)

• Basic tank tops. Keep the color palette neutral and you have the perfect layering tanks!
• Gathered dress. Use the top as a bodice. Cut it where you want the skirt to start (I’d recommend empire or natural waist) then add a gathered skirt in any length.
• A-line dress. Again, use the top as a bodice, but this time flare it out as it reaches the hem.
• Add flutter sleeves. Instead of the usual t-shirt sleeve, this hack would give it a really fun look!