This light and lovely shirt dress is great for layering now, then staying cool all summer long – especially if you opt for chambray, like Amanda Walker has here (don’t forget to neaten the raw edges). You’ll add shaping with simple darts and tucks, then master gathered-head sleeves and inserting an invisible zipper… we promise it will quickly become a favourite in your me-made wardrobe!
1 Download and print the pattern at sewmag.co.uk/templates. Cut all the pieces as indicated in the cutting guide and transfer all markings. Fuse interfacing to the collar and front bodice facing area as indicated. Stitch the darts into the front and back bodice pieces, then press towards the centre. Fold in and pin the tucks at either side of the front darts, then stitch them down along the waistline.
2 Neaten the shoulders and side seams on the front and back bodice pieces, pin right sides together, then sew the shoulder seams. Pin the collars right sides together, then stitch along the outer edge. Trim the corners, then turn right sides out and press. Clip the curve around the neckline. Pin the collar to the neck, matching the centre-back points and the front dots, then stitch. Leave the collar pinned down.
3 Fold the facing part of the front bodice to the right side, noting the fold line indicated on the pattern, so that the collar