Palm Leaf Caftan Dress

Prepping for vacation can be a little overwhelming. You spend all your time getting the kids and hubby all packed, and then you’re usually left scrambling to pull yourself together. Well I have the perfect caftan dress that will add such an elegant flare to your getaway wardrobe! This dress was done and ready to go in less than 1 hour! Now, who’s ready to slay this look?

Here’s what I used:

• Pattern: Butterick Fast & Easy B5652 Option B- Lengthen or shorten depending on preference.
• Fabric: Mood Designer Fabrics Exclusive Key Largo Collection – 3.5yds
• Beaded Neck Trim 3/4″ 1/2yd

This pattern is pretty straight forward and very easy to sew. However, I did make a few minor adjustments. The neckline was a little too high so I dropped it down 2″ for a more flattering look. I decided to add a split directly on the center front seam. This breaks up the print and keeps the eye moving while showing a little skin. In addition, I drafted a simple self belt 2 3/4″ x 54″ (for size small) which actually gives the dress it’s shape. While there is an option for patch or side seam pockets, I chose to opt out in order to prevent any bulk. The garment was finished with nice clean french seams and a 1/2″ rolled hem. Feel free to add a mesh neck applique or beaded trim as I did for an added touch. Plenty of trim options are available online or you can visit any one of the Mood Fabrics locations trim department for more.

Ok, so let me tell you a little about this neck trim I used. I purchased this trim about 5-6yrs ago at the Mood Fabrics location in New York. I saw it, I loved it, I had to have it. It was definitely impulsive, because this trim had absolutely nothing to do with what I needed that day! LOL! Come on it’s Mood! You go in for one thing and 2 hours later…”I’ll find something to use with this”. So to make a long story short, this pretty beaded trim sat on my shelf in my stash for years! I would always pull it out for various projects, but for some reason it just wasn’t right! It never worked with anything (or maybe I thought it was too pretty to use) Well looky, looky! As soon as I got home with my bag of fabric for this project, I pulled out my trim stash and BOOM!! A perfect match for my print! I almost did a little shout!! Don’t you just love when that happens! Ok, I just had to share that little moment of sewing bliss.

Now let’s get into this pretty palm leaf print! How stunning are these colors? The turquoise ground, with brown, tan and subtle pops of peach and fuchsia are out of this world! This print is screaming to be led to a pink sandy beach. How amazing would you look wearing this while you dine on the waterfront during a romantic sunset? Yes honey I can see you!! LOL!! Another great thing about this piece is that it’s very loose-fitting. Just pull it over your head and you’re ready to go. No buttons, no zippers! So yes, you could 100% wear this poolside with no belt as a comfy caftan or swimsuit cover-up.

Creating a great looking piece doesn’t have to consist of hours or days of sewing for that matter. All you need is an easy pattern, and a great print! Jazz it up with a little sparkle and awesome accessories and you’re ready to go!! Now go and get started so you can pack this awesome dress for your trip!

Enjoy!