The Wardrobe by Me Akinori Dress

I sew knits a LOT. I love just serging everything together. It's faster, and I've gotten pretty good with knits. However, occasionally, I choose a woven item to push myself. It forces me to take my time, to try new things, and to work with a different fabric type. There is always something to learn. When I signed up for testing the revamped version of the Wardrobe by Me Akinori Dress, I knew it would force me to do something new, but I also knew, that in the end, I would have something new that I love!

**Disclosure: I have included my affiliate link to the pattern I used in this post. If you choose to purchase a Wardrobe by Me Pattern using my link, I'll receive a small commission of the sale at no additional cost to you!**

So... here's my Akinori Dress!

This pattern is very unique! I haven't seen another even similar to it! It is drafted for woven fabrics. You can optionally use a knit without much stretch (you might need to size down a bit). It has a kimono type top, with dolman sleeves, the sleeves are not set in. It has a beautiful detail at the waist. There are pleats in the top pulling the top into the smaller detail waist piece. The bodice pieces cross over a bit making a V in the front. The front skirt also has pleats. The back dress is all one piece (no separate bodice and skirt), making construction simple. However, it does not look simple once you tie the belt piece. The tie belt really pulls the otherwise loose-fitting dress into the waist, making it fit beautifully, and making it very flattering! There are no closures, buttons or zippers in this pattern. It is really not difficult to sew, but plan on taking your time with it! Depending on the fabric you use, it can be more difficult. Some woven fabrics are harder to work with! But the pattern itself goes together easily, and is pretty simple to make!

The pattern is available for US sizes 0-24. You will need woven fabric and a lightweight interfacing to complete your dress. Woven fabrics recommended on the site are silk, cotton, viscose, or anything with good drape.

The sleeves are finished with a simple facing. I love the fit!

Here is the back. The back is all one piece (not a separate bodice and skirt), but you can't tell once you tie the belt!

You can see the fit of the dolman style/ kimono sleeves here.

There are optional pockets too! However, I left them off due to my lack of time!

Here you can see the front crossover bodice, the beautiful pleats, and front tie belt.

You can see pleats on either side of the front skirt, and an inverted box pleat in the center front.

The dress fits very comfortably. I think it's comfortable due to the lack of zippers! 😉 It is easy to slip on over the head. I would wear it any time! Because of the lightweight fabric, I think it's perfect for the summer heat! I also feel like it is the ideal dress for dressing up a bit! I plan to use mine for church too!

My Fabric:

As I mentioned, woven fabric is ideal for sewing this pattern. This is a very drapey polyester crepe I purchased at Hobby Lobby. It was on clearance, which I LOVE! So, I got this fabric for around $5 a yard I believe! 🎉

Head on over and check out the pattern! https://wardrobebyme.com/products/akinori-kimono-dress?ref:NDUwNy4zNTMuMzE0MS5U

Look at all of the versions from the different testers - they are really all very beautiful!!

Thanks for Reading 💗

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