This year I’ve been on a roll this year making lots of separates. However I love a simple dress – it makes dressing easy. I’ve been looking for a knit dress pattern which could become a wardrobe workhorse. I thought I would try the Lodo dress pattern by True Bias in my search for the holy grail.

The other knit dress patterns that I’ve tried in the past left me feeling awkward. These include the Maria Denmark Rachel wrap dress and the Nettie Dress blogged here. Both patterns fit the criteria for my hourglass body shape so I couldn’t quite figure out my issue. When I had a consultation with Nina I discovered my style personality prefers heavyweight fabrics to flowy drapey fabrics. True lightbulb moment!

I’ve been in need of a few simple dresses with minimal fuss which can be worn with bold jackets and accessories. The Lodo dress is designed to be made from structured knit such with an approximate 25% stretch such as ponte, cotton interlock, and lightweight scuba.

The pattern has a straight fit through the waist and hips and a slightly tapered hem to create a subtle cocoon shape. It has a flattering deep V neck at centre front and an extended cap sleeve. Both the neckline and armholes are finished with a woven facing. View A has a hem that hits at mid-calf with a slit at centre back for moveability. View B’s hem hits a couple of inches above the knee. I made view B as I’m short and I’ve discovered that my mid-calf length garments don’t get as much wear.

My Lodo is a size 12 adjusted to a 16 at the hip – using the cocoon shape from my York pinafore. After my first dress, I made a 1cm swayback adjustment to the pattern before making my second dress. This pattern is drafted for a C-cup I’m a D – DD. You can see some drag lines in the bust area but they don’t look bad. This dress is made in a structured knit from the Fabric Store Wellington.

These photos were taken in Christchurch botanic gardens. Paul and I had a great mini-break weekend which left us feeling rejuvenated. We experience two days of glorious spring weather. I’m now back to wearing winter hosiery.

I’ve made two Lodo’s and there are plans for a third in a black woven with a large maroon check. I know these dresses will get a lot of wear! Now I just need a could more long pendants. How great does the Lodo look with the Kochi Kimono?

Trying this pattern has me all excited to try some other new styles. Watch this space to see my spring/summer sewing plans.