
the language of fashion design
The basic shift-dress pattern,
anchored to the right shoul-
der, is slashed and opened
down the left side seam, add-
ing godets of fabric excess,
which are then lifted and
tacked (stitched with right
sides together to expose
4 inches [10.2 cm] of seam
allowance falling outside).
All in richly colored silk, the
basic shift’s shape is
A straight, raglan-sleeved
column dress has a busy
geometric print (microshapes
arranged in horizontal rows)
that takes center stage. Its
shape is punctuated by a
wide, contrast-pleated neck-
line ruffle and floor-length,
circular flared sleeve ruffles
with square hems.
retained but with ...