Bohemian Hippie Dress (Burda 7224)

Bohemian Hippie Dress (Burda 7224)

THE FABRIC

This was a 'shopping my stash' project and I had a large amount of this soft, almost crepe-like cotton jersey knit that I ordered on sale sort of by mistake before. Even when you're familiar with textile terminology, it's hard to know precisely what you're getting without seeing it in person. However, into the stash it went. And it just happened to be perfect for this project (if not for the purpose I had originally intended).

I can't describe how comfy and soft this fabric is! Lovely to wear. And it has a cute stylized floral pattern, green with purple accents on a cream base.

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THE PATTERN

Quick confession: I am a pattern hoarder. I buy a bunch of them whenever there's a sale at Jo-Ann Fabrics. Burda has some unique and interesting styles but is rarely on sale, so I have to be choosy with which patterns I get. Therefore, this one was one that I seriously considered making before (not just purchasing as a passing fancy).

What can I say? I love a shirt-dress.

As far as the fact that it's a Burda "Young" pattern, the "young" seems only denote the fact that their designers think the style is more suited to younger women. Not that I believe anyone should ever be restricted in their fashion choices by the opinions of others, but this design especially seems odd to imply only younger woman can wear it. It looks quite universal to me.

Maybe they just meant young at heart. (aka Hippies and free spirits.)

I opted for the long sleeves variation, which features a gathered flare like on medieval dresses. The bodice is simple and not very fitted (definitely needs some extra fit adjustment despite the darts, especially if using a stretch fabric such as a knit). I think if I made it again, I would lengthen the bodice. It sits about an inch higher than my natural waist (likely due to my bust size).

The pattern lends itself wonderfully to use with knits. (Especially with the aid of an overlock/serger.)

AND IT HAS POCKETS!

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HOW I STYLE IT

I opted for some wooden buttons I had in my stash for the dress placket. This was primarily to match a vintage wooden bead-macramé belt I inherited from another crafter's de-stash cleanse.

Pair with moccasins, sandals, flats or bare feet (seems like the most accurate option), loosely styled hair (or tie-dye bandana) and some eclectic jewelry (my Moroccan wooden bangle and magpie pocket watch necklace here) to finish off the bohemian look.