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SEWING MY STASH | SIMPLICITY 9175
Baby it’s cold outside! And this cozy turtleneck dress is just what the doctor ordered to keep me warm and cute at the same time. Is it just me, or are you still trying to look fabulous when the temperatures are low? (This post is sponsored by Baby Lock.)
I absolutely love turtleneck garments. I’ve always enjoyed wearing them and being able to sew them with fabrics of my choice makes them all the more exciting. Whether it be a dress or top, give me a good turtleneck in the winter and I’m happy.
This is garment #22 in my personal challenge to sew 22 patterns that I already own in 2022! WooHoo!!! Okay, this is a dance break moment. Right now, get up and bust a move for me. I accomplished my goal and I’m so proud!!! You can see garment #21 HERE.
PATTERN INFORMATION
Simplicity 9175 is a simple pattern. If you have basic sewing experience, you should be able to follow along with the pattern instructions to complete the dress.
There are three different views to choose from. I made View A which is a long-sleeve, midi length turtleneck dress with a front overlay skirt and side tie.
View B is a sleeveless, midi length turtleneck dress with sash.
View C is a round-neck, midi length dress, long sleeves with slits below the elbow.
The pattern is currently available on Simplicity’s website.
Inside the Garment
Now, let’s take a look at the inside of the dress. I put all three of my Baby Lock machines to work on sewing the garment. This time I used the Vibrant Serger to sew the main seams. The Baby Lock Euphoria Coverstitch is my go-to machine for hems. I used my Soprano to sew the back darts and to attach the skirt overlay to dress front.
I always do a test run on the stitches whenever starting a new project to make sure I have the proper settings for the type of fabric I’m using. I actually don’t have to change my Vibrant and Euphoria settings often which makes me happy.
In order to keep the self facing band from turning out to the front of the garment, I used the stitch-in-the-ditch method. The Blind Stitch Presser Foot that comes with the Baby Lock Soprano is very useful for this and other tasks.
To help prevent my knit fabric from stretching, even when sewing darts, I use the walking foot that came with my Baby Lock Soprano.
Fabric Options
The pattern is sized for stretch knits only, such as: Bamboo, Cotton Knits, Interlock, Jersey, Modal, and Sweater Knits. According to the Pick-A-Knit Rule on back of the pattern envelope, your fabric should have at least 50% stretch for this garment.
I used a beautiful Liverpool Knit that I purchased from Melanated Fabrics last year when I was in Atlanta for a business event. The fabric is medium weight and has a nice amount of drape. It’s perfect for this type of garment because it keeps you warm in the colder months. I love how soft it feels against the skin. It’s been a while, so the fabric is no longer available.
Alterations Information
I made a swayback adjustment because my back neck-to-waist measurement is shorter than that of the pattern. This is an adjustment I make to prevent a lot of extra fabric from puddling up at my lower back. I like using the Nancy Zieman Pivot & Slide method for this adjustment because it’s so simple.
I cut a size 14 and added ¼” to the side seams at the hips for an extra inch of ease. After the first fitting, I removed the extra 1/4″ of ease because I didn’t need it. If I sew it again, I will decrease the collar width because it doesn’t fit snug around the neck. It kind of sticks out, so I just allow it to drape down in front.
Notions Information
The suggested notions are ½” wide single fold bias tape for the armhole on View B, and 20” of swimsuit elastic for the neckline on View C.
My Plans for the Garment
I can’t imagine any place where I can’t wear this dress. And I have a feeling this one will serve me well during the fall and winter over the next few years.
Styling Options
Changing up the shoes and other accessories will give you lots of styling variety. Check out some options below.
Styling Option #1
You can never go wrong with a pair of strappy pumps. Simplicity is the name of the game with this look. A pair of stud earrings, long chains, a handbag, and you’re ready for work, church, dinner, or whatever.
Styling Option #2
This dress just screams for a pair of boots. But throw on a felt hat and you just elevated the entire look. Oh, BABY!!! I would actually like to see it with beige boots. So, I’m on the lookout for a beautiful, comfortable pair. I added a few bangle bracelets, a pair of big hoop earrings, the same handbag, and I’m ready. Let’s Gooo!!!
Styling Option #3
Adding a scarf on top of a turtleneck in the winter adds another layer of warmth. So, I’ve accessorized with a beautiful navy chiffon scarf with a yellow, floral print. Grab a briefcase and you’re ready to lead your business team into 2023 with power.
How would you wear the garment?
So, tell me, which is your favorite look below? Would you sew this dress? Do you have the pattern? Talk to me in the comments. I would love to hear from you.
Don't Forget your Sewing Project Checklist
Did you know that I created a Sewing Project Checklist to help you stay organized while sewing your garments? If you missed the video where I shared 3 Steps to Time Saving Sewing for Beginners, check it out to learn how you can streamline your sewing process. Tap the link below to get a Free PDF copy of the Checklist.
Thanks for stopping by,
Remember: When you live in your DESIGN, it is from there that God SHINES!
Links to Products, Posts & Tutorials
Here are links to products, blog posts, and tutorials mentioned in this post.
(DISCLAIMER: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. All opinions in this post are my own.).)
This Post Has 18 Comments
Congratulations on meeting your challenge goal!!! This is a beautiful dress & the Liverpool knit is great. I have some in a mustard color. Unfortunately, I can’t wear a snug turtleneck. If I were to make it, it would be with the loose neck, the way you made it. And I would style it with the boots. I love boots. Thank you for a great year of blogs. I pray you have a very happy new year.
Hi Carmen! Oh my goodness, this dress would look amazing in a mustard color, styled with a pair of boots. YES! I’m glad you’ve enjoyed the blog posts this year.
I love #3 it is simple and elegant with the scarf accent!
Happy New Year to you!
I love #3 too, Beth! Thank you so much.
Dearest Anita,
Ever since I saw your first video, I was very impressed with the your demeanor and your attitude. It exudes confidence and it’s contagious. However, I was not ready to delve into sewing garments. I’ve been very intimidated. Now I’m ready so I’m going to purchase patterns for which you have tutorials and sew along with you and I am certain it will be a success because you have the gift of teaching. Thank you for sharing it with us and I wish you blessings in your endeavors. Happy New Year, Anita!
Jeannie, you have blessed my heart with this message. Thank you for trusting me with your learning. I’m so happy to have you in my community. Happy New Year!!!💕
Although all three are beautifully styled I choose three as it says pure class. Only the best for 2023.
Thank you Agatha! Number 3 is my favorite too. I just love it.
Perfect dress/pattern to end 2022. So excited for you to enter 2023 with a new adventure ahead. May God continue to bless you and guide.
Monica from Florida
Thank you so much, Monica.
Sew 22 is too gorgeous for words! This blue, the accessories for each look, and your makeup are ideal. When you walk into a room wearing either look, expect a M C Hammer moment – “You can’t touch this!!!” Congratulations on completing your sewing goals, the new vision/direction God has given you, and for maintaining the same joyful, sweet spirit you displayed the first time I saw you speaking on=line for the American Sewing Guild. I’m excited for what’s coming in 2023!!! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours.
Oooohhh, De, thank you so MUCH! I cracked up at MC Hammer! 😂 I was a huge fan of his back in the day. I will still bust a move when “Can’t Touch This” comes on.
Wow! I didn’t know you first saw me on American Sewing Guild. I’m so glad I did that interview because now I have you in my community. Yaaaayyy!!!
Merry Christmas, De!!!
Oh my goodness, you have out done yourself!!! ALL 3 are simply beautiful. I have that pattern. What do think about using a rib knit material??? Love, Love, Love this dress. Your last outfit has blown your sewing project out of the water! Keep up the good work Anita. Thanks for sharing!
Rosalind!!! Thank you so much. Yes, I think it would look great with a rib knit. You’re very welcome. Have fun sewing your dress.
Beautiful dress. I admire your fabric and pattern matching skills. You always pair the fabric and pattern beautifully. Congratulations on meeting your sew 22 garments challenge. I look forward to seeing your makes in 2023. Happy Hollidays.
Thank you so much, Linda. I’m excited about 2023 too. Merry Christmas!
I love all three options but number 3 is my favorite.
I think that’s my favorite too, Elizabeth. 💕