Charlie Caftan by Closet Core Patterns

I love this dress! If I had more time before my holiday I would make more of these, both this version or the maxi version.

All versions feature a deep V neckline, short dolman sleeves, inset centre panel and roomy pockets. View A is modern and architectural with striking pleats beneath the bust. Views B and C feature a gently gathered bodice with an optional waist tie for a figure-skimming silhouette in two skirt lengths. There’s a dramatically wide sleeve, or one slightly higher cut for more coverage.

Mine is View A with the smaller sleeve. But to keep a clean silhouette, instead of the pleats beneath the bust, I treated the markings for the pleat as long darts.

The centre rectangular insert was a little fiddly but accuracy and perseverance paid off. Unfortunately you can hardly see it in this fabric!

This gorgeous embroidered cotton came from my usual haunt, Walton’s Fabrics in Dewsbury. Such a lucky find! I’m hoping it’ll be cool in the humidity of Mauritius.

I think the choice of view is very much down to the choice of fabric. A slightly structured cotton or linen is best for View A, a more drapey cotton or viscose for View B and definitely a viscose or similar for View C.

I did my usual research of other’s reviews and poured over the finished measurements. I went with the size 10 which was the size for half an inch less than my chest measurement. My waist and hip put me in the next size up but the finished measurements had plenty of ease in these areas.

I made the facings and the pockets up in off cuts from a soft white cotton duvet. I thought it might be softer on the skin and less bulky for pocket bags. I like the flash of white I can see through the pocket silts.

I loved making up this pattern. The instructions were second to none, as with all Closet Core patterns.

It is such a lovely shape.

A breezy dress.

Love, Lucie XX