The Farrow Dress by Grainline Studio in Kaufman Metallic Linen

Heavens alive I love a shift dress, especially when they boast cool details or an interesting architectural silhouette. The latest pattern from Grainline boasts both, of course. A snappy a-line shape with deep, slanted pockets? Sign me up!

While I had a few plans for the Farrow dress, everything flew out the window when I was at Needlework in Hamilton for a Ginger Jeans workshop. The ladies had made up the pattern in this delightful black and gold metallic Kaufman Essex linen and after squeezing myself into their size 6 sample I decided to make the exact same thing, this time in a size 10.

Essex linen is a little on the stiff side, but I like how it emphasizes the structure of the dress. I also wanted something easy to wear to holiday parties, and nothing beats gold sparkles, plus no waist definition so you can eat and drink as much as you want, right?

I went sleeveless since it felt more "evening"; I think the high-low hem helps here too since it frames the legs nicely.

This was a fun, satisfying make. The pocket construction is unusual, and I love the simple but graphic impact of the diagonal seam lines. The biggest change I made was to the facings. I almost always prefer an all in one facing, so I quickly drafted one. Nothing worse than a flippy neck facing, I tell ya.

I think this dress is a great addition to my more minimalist wardrobe; its simple and chic and understated, and I've worn it a few times when I needed something dressy this winter. I'll probably try making one up with sleeves in the wintertime, since I have a real lack of warm dresses (I just pile sweaters on top of everything).

Have you made the Farrow yet? Anyone else seduced by metallic linen too?