Adding an asymmetric neckline to The Drawstring Dress

There are a few asymmetrical styles coming through where excess fabric is pleated or folded at the neck or waist, and this inspired this variation of The Drawstring Dress. 

The changes have resulted in a very different looking dress. The original has a gathered neck and gathered sleeves, the variation has a buttoned fold at the neck and slimmer sleeve with flat cuff. 

To recreate this variation take the pattern front and increase the neckline width by 2cm and tapered to nothing by the hem – as shown above. The line of the neckline is slightly angled down towards the centre front. For the sleeves both front and back reduce the sleeve opening down to 20cm – this gives a finished sleeve opening of 36cm in total. 

To ensure a neat neckline draw a separate pattern piece for front and back neck facings as shown above. 

With right sides together, pin then stitch, the shoulder seams of both the dress and the facings. Then with right sides together pin the facing to the dress and stitch around the neckline. Make tiny snips all around the curve of the seam allowance and turn the facing through to the inside of the dress. 

Once the sides seams are done, try the dress on and decide where the button and loop should be placed. The loop is a simple chain stitched thread loop. 

When fastened the fabric folds to one side. The sleeves are finished with a simple narrow double turn and stitched. 

The finished dress is easy to wear and simply stylish. The fabric is a silk crepe de chine from Misan which has a light drape.

Pair with a cardigan and knee high boots or with The Blazer and wear over a pair of The Classic Trousers for a layered look.