Pattern Review: Kalle shirt dress by Closet Core Patterns

So, I finally broke down and bought myself a tripod, so I can take photos of my sewing without making my husband take them for me. Hooray! I still feel a bit awkward taking them (read: very, very awkward, as evidenced by my weirdo face in some of these photos...) but at least they'll get done now. 

Anyways. 

I've had this photo saved on my pinterest board for years. I just love everything about it... the happy colors, the model's hair, and especially that clementine shirt. I've been on the hunt for a similar fabric ever since, and a few months ago I stumbled on this papaya fabric in the quilting cotton section of Joanne's. There were exactly 3 yards left on the bolt, so I snatched it up and decided to make my first ever Kalle out of it! 

Now, the Kalle Shirtdress is a bit of a cult classic in the sewing community, so I was able to scour the Instagram hashtag, and sort of figure out what modifications I needed to make, without making a toile (I hate making toiles..... I know some people love the whole process of making little tweaks until a garment fits perfectly, but I find the whole thing maddening). I lowered the curved hem an inch or so, and then added 2 inches to the length. Now that I've made it, I think I'll add a bit more length next time, as it still sits a bit higher than makes sense for my lifestyle. I may just shorten it into a top, but for now, I like it well enough to wear it at least once a week.

Fun fact: there are a total of 4 different thread colors in this dress. I started with a green that matched the rinds of the papayas, but ran out after finishing the pockets and the placket. I then switched to an orange that I've been trying to use up, which you can see on the buttons. Then came black, which is on the inside seams, and finally an off white on the hem. Luckily, it's not too noticeable.

So, All in all.... I can see why this pattern is so beloved. The instructions are well done, and it's a super versatile pattern. I actually have two more cut out to sew up later, which is a testament to how good this dress is.