Marbella Dress

I've had the original version of this pattern in my cart for several months, waiting for both an occasion and the time to make it before buying. Then, just as I'm looking for dress patterns for something to wear to my Brother's wedding next month a call goes out to test a new add-on for it which is even more my style than the original pattern, what perfect timing!  I immediately applied and pre-washed some fabric from my stash ready in hope! I'm super excited to show you all the Marbella with the new skirt add on*.......

​Pattern Details

The Marbella Dress is for US sizes 00-20 (31-46" bust) and has separate pattern pieces for A,B,C & D cups so less time making bust adjustments!  Itcomes as a multiple file PDFs, one with the bodice and original skirt and a second with the new half circle skirt add on.  They both include very detailed size & measurement charts, print & cutting layout guides and are fully illustrated throughout.  The pattern pieces themselves have layers and all sizes have different line colour and styles so however you're printing, it will be super easy to assemble and cut.  It requires between 1.7 and 2 meters (1 7/8 - 2 1/8 yards) of at least 54" wide fabric and the same of lining if choosing the fully lined option, Other required notions are interfacing, a 22" invisible zip and a hook and eye set.

​My Version

I made the fully lined version in size 0C bust graded down to 00 waist.  I used a gorgeously soft and drapey printed cotton sateen and lined with 100% cotton poplin using 1.5 metres of each.  I was having a bad sew day when I sewed this up and even though I had all the fabrics ready cut and had already done a bodice muslin to check fit and run through construction, it took me literally a whole day to sew with just the hemming left until the next day to allow the hem to drop naturally first.  Being fully lined it is literally like sewing 2 identical dresses, attaching them together and inserting a zip, actually not a bad achievement in a day!

How does it fit?

Perfectly!! I do need to admit to one alteration from the pattern which is I needed to take a 3cm seam allowance when inserting the zipper rather than the pattern drafted 1.9cm but that is literally IT! I have never had a woven pattern fit me so well straight from the pattern, it literally fits like a glove!  It is not unusual for me to need to take out some length in the bodice or do a sway back adjustment and often either move darts or do a bust adjustment but not for this!

​Tester Inspiration

There is a blog post with photos and inspiration from lots of other testers in all sizes HERE*

​​Project Cost

​Full price pattern - (£11.30) $15  - I received the pattern for free in return for testing
Fabric Cost - £23.52 ($31.63)
Notions & Thread - £5 ($5.38) 

Total Cost - £39.82 ($52.01 USD)

Cost to make each additional with similar priced fabric - £28-£30 ($37.66-$40.35)
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The Marbella* is on re-release sale for $12 (£9)! There's an additional code 'beauty' for a further 15% off your total basket if you buy 2 or more patterns as well!

PS. be sure to pick up your copy of the FREE lindy petal skirt* whilst you're there, it teams perfectly with the Vienna!

​AND - the bonus is, if you've already purchased the Marbella* before, the add-on will be added to your account for free! Just log in to your account to find it!

​The Verdict

​There is no way to tell you just how much I adore this dress and the amazing fit it offers! I want all of my woven dresses to be made from this pattern!! It is simply and classically perfect and this is my new benchmark for future dresses to beat!! You NEED this pattern in your stash, for in the right fabrics it is perfect for formal work wear, casual spring/summer dresses, wedding guest dresses and even evening partying! 

​Related Blogposts

Vienna Tank by Itch to Stitch

Uptown Downtown by Sew Straight & Gather

​To buy the Marbella pattern, click HERE!*

Affiliate links included throughout this post marked with an asterisk '*' it costs you nothing extra but means I get a few cent's if you buy the pattern after clicking through.  I would love it if you could use them if this post has inspired you but feel free to navigate there yourself if you prefer! Thanks, Sarah​