I recently made the latest release for Made for Mermaids Patterns, the Persephone Dress. This pattern is available in both youth and adult sizing. I tested both patterns and have included a review below. You can find more pictures of tester photos and inspiration in the Made for Mermaids Facebook Group. Please let me know if you have any questions that I did not answer in my review. **The fabric and pattern have affiliate links attached- this allows you to purchase products through my link and no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.**
Pattern Description:
Persephone is a beautiful dress with a romper add-on option. It is designed for apparel wovens. The front bodice has princess seams. The back bodice is open and ties at the center in a bow or knot. The bodice is fully lined with enclosed seams. Choose a cute crop top or skirted option. The crop with plain straps is naturally reversible. The 1/2 circle skirt comes in 4 lengths: peplum, mini, dress, or a midi with ruffle. Plus optional inseam pockets. The back skirt is finished with a facing and enclosed elastic. Choose a plain or ruffle strap.
Pattern Sizing:
Youth –
- •Fits sizes 1/2 (about 9-12 months) to 14.
- •Chest sizes 19″-32″ or 46.2-81.2 cm
- •Waist sizes 19.5″-28″ or 49.5-71.1 cm
- •Hip sizes 19.5″-34″ or 49.5-86.3 cm
- •Height 29″-61″ or 73.6-154.9 cm
Adult-
- •Fits upper bust sizes 31″-53″ or 78.7-134.6 cm
- •Fits full bust sizes 30″-60″ or 76.2-153.4 cm
- •Fits natural waist sizes: 23″-57″ or 58.4-134.6 cm.
- •Fits full hip sizes: 34″-64″ or 86.3 – 162.5 cm
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes it did. I sewed the plain strap, dress length option for both the blue and pink dresses and the ruffle strap option for the teal, watercolor floral dress.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes they were. You can easily make fitting adjustments to this woven pattern using the princess seams on the bust, strap placement and length, and the elastic back waist. It is very easy to fit for a woven pattern and I made adjustments easily. I took in through the bust area and I shortened the straps by 3 inches for my preferred fit.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the overall design of this pattern. The tie back closure is such a fun and cute detail. Typically, it is hard to wear a bra with this style, but the Persephone is designed to wear with your bra. Wear the bra you will wear during the sewing/fitting and make sure you align the straps accordingly. Then tie the bow, pulling one strap around the back of your bra to remain secure and cover the strap.
Fabric Used:
I used the following fabrics:
On the ruffle teal watercolor dress I used this stunning Minerva Exclusive Linen Viscose Fabric. It is amazing and I wrote a whole review here.
The Bright blue dress was an amazing thrift store score- I found 4 yards of this beautiful cotton Alfred Shaheen Print
The pink dress was another thrift store find in a bubble crepe and I had just enough to create my daughter’s dress.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I shortened the straps on both of our dresses to achieve the best fit. I also took my dresses in through the bust area by about 3/8 inch- my daughter’s dress did not need this adjustment.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I would sew this again. I absolutely love this pattern and think it makes a gorgeous dress. Check out the romper add on if you want to add another look to this pattern.
Conclusion:
The latest Made for Mermaids Pattern is a winner. I love the style of the pattern and how easy it is to achieve a great fit on a woven pattern. Check out the pattern here.
About 18 years ago I decided to teach myself how to sew. Long before blogs and resources available today which meant it was often disastrous. But I never gave up because I loved it so much. Today I love helping others get started on their own sewing journey. You can read more about my family and I