I recently came across a sewing pattern on Instagram that I fell in love with immediately. The By Hand London Kim Dress had the sweetest curved square neckline, and a perfectly fitting princess seam bodice. I immediately knew I had to try it.

The pattern was a very simple sew, and I essentially had no changes required to the fit, which is honestly hard to come by in my experience. I had to tighten the bodice slightly at the back, but it only took a few minutes to do so. The lining looks stunning inside, and though there was a little hand sewing on the portion around the zipper, it was worth the clean look it produces.

I used a cotton striped fabric perfect for hot summer days. I picture this out on the beach by the ocean, though we don’t have a trip planned for that so we just may have to now. The major customization I made on this dress was for the skirt. I cut four pieces of fabric to create a midi gathered skirt, but I made the front two different widths so I could sew in a slit at one leg.

I plan to use this bodice pattern again – I really can’t get enough of it! What do you all think?