Ever since I discovered By Hand London, I’ve seen some amazing renditions of the Anna Dress floating around the internet. I absolutely love my Georgia Dress, but I didn’t really feel drawn to making the Anna Dress for a long time. I don’t know what it was, but I just wasn’t feeling it for a while.

I got the fever, though, at some point in the last several months, and bit the bullet and made one with some fabric I bought when a fabric store was closing (the same time I bought the fabric for my Easter Dress). I’m so glad I did. The fabric isn’t amazing, but the dress sure is. It’s easy to wear and easy to make (seriously! It’s so easy to make!), and has a flattering shape and lots of options for customization. It’s such a versatile design that I can wear with heels or flats to look professional for work/school/conferences, or throw on some sandals and go to the beach or out with friends. Love.

The dress features simple pleats on the front to shape the waist/bust transition region and darts on the back. Aside from the minor setback of mis-sewing the pleats the first time and having to pick them out of this delicate fabric, this dress was so simple. There are seven skirt panels, which could easily be traded out for another skirt pattern if desired. I’ve seen some amazing skirt hacks online. 

I will likely make the v-neck version in the not-too-distant future. I think it could give the dress a more casual feel. Or less, depending on the fabric choices I presume. While I made the midi length, there is also a maxi length with or without a thigh-high slit, if that’s something you’re into. I plan on eventually making both. 🙂

I’d love to make this in a solid color, and I think it would be lovely in something sheer and moderately lined (you know, in the important parts).

As for sizing, I cut a 6, which is what my bust/waist measurements indicate and it fits like a dream. I appreciate that indie pattern companies don’t add 4″+ of ease into their designs.

The directions were great, and there’s also a sewalong on the BHL blog. I really liked the sewalong and all of the pictures it contains. They show how to make each version in different fabrics. They also feature a hack for 3/4 sleeves, which would be amazing for a fall/winter Anna Dress.

I will absolutely be making this again, and likely soon!