The Charme Pattern by Lysimaque

by Sew Like Romy

For me, fabric choice is a very natural reaction. I don’t usually think about what I’m making until after I pick a fabric. I’m naturally drawn to colours and patterns and sometimes that love gets out of control and I end up with a lot of fabric. But is it really a problem? I think not!

So the fabric for this make was very much an organic make. Let me explain why. This fabric colour and print is not my usual colour scheme. I don’t actually remember the last time I worked with earthy tones. But there was just something about it where I knew I had to have it and make something magical. The cotton lawn was light and fresh even though the earthy tones make it seem like there’s a heavier feel to it. It’s so soft and delicate which wasn’t what I was expecting, but it was a pleasant surprise. On the feel alone I cannot recommend this fabric enough.

Fast forward a few days and I was testing the new Charme pattern from Lysimaque and I knew this fabric would be magical for this dress pattern. I did what I don’t normally do and just went straight for it without checking yardage. This is what I mean by a very organic make. I didn’t realise I didn’t have enough fabric! Gasp! Luckily I had this gorgeous red linen in my stash that I was purposely using for the under collar for contrast but I was short a sleeve so I used the red linen for that! I could not believe how well the colours matched up! It all felt right even though it was a forced decision.

Let’s talk about this new pattern from Lysimaque. It’s a top and dress pattern in one. It has the option of one or two collars which are uniquely shaped so it’s not like any other collared pattern I’ve seen before, present and vintage. It’s got this cute sleeve detail with elastic making the cutest sleeve hem I’ve seen. I opted to make mine with the double collar with the contrast red for the under collar. I love how it makes the Kokka print pop! I made the dress version, but added 3” to the length of the skirt. I was super happy with the pattern and I was so happy I used this Kokka cotton lawn. It really felt like this fabric and pattern were meant to be together.

Overall, this make was exactly what the doctor ordered. Usually I put more thought into my makes to a point where I stress about it. This was just so fun and free. I was able to take a beautiful fabric and pattern and match them up to just work organically even when I encountered the issue of missing fabric for one sleeve. As a result, I’ve ended up with a completely unique dress that I adore and that’s so comfortable that it may be secret pajamas. I cannot wait for the warmer days and the longer nights to rock this on a day night with the husband. Well one day, the pandemic days are still here, but I can dream!