I can't believe its the end of the Diving into Dolman Series! But I'm excited to do this round up post because it is going to be extra awesome. Why? Because I couldn't help but throw in just one more dolman. AND I've got a coupon code for you, so be sure to read to the end.

But before I do, I want to talk about what I've learned from this series.

So, lesson #1- batwings are not my friends. I've seen them look amazing on other body shapes, but they just aren't best on my inverted triangle body type. They aren't the worst thing ever, but if I'm going to sew for myself, I can definitely skip this style.

Lesson #2- A slimmer fit dolman looks great on my body type. They actually work to slim my shoulders. That's a nice feature.

Lesson #3- As always, a scoopier neckline is more flattering than a higher neckline. I already knew this, but this really nailed it.

Lesson #4- I learned to do a proper FBA on a dolman. It was scary at first. But ultimately, once you've done it, it really isn't anything to be afraid of.

Lesson #5- As much as I like all the dolmans I've made, I have learned that I pretty much LIVE in tunics. So all these t-shirt lengths shirts are great, but not "me".

With that information, which dolmans do I wish I had tried?
#1- Patterns for Pirates Sweet Tee. I love Judy's patterns and find that I know exactly which adjustments to make to get them to fit me perfectly. This pattern is more slim fit with no batwing, so it is just the style for me!

#2- Love Notions La Bella Donna. The LBD includes 3 hem options, 3 sleeve lengths, and hood, cowl and regular neckline. That's a lot of options. And in this series we've linked back to it again and again.
Here's one at Sew Sophie Lynn
and another from the Creative Counselor.

And that brings us to my final review. When we were arranging this series, there was 1 thing I noticed immediately. Of all the dolmans available, nearly everyone already owned the Love Notions La Bella Donna. That really says something. It only makes sense though, because when Becca Duval did a round up post of most popular patterns, the Love Notions La Bella Donna won out for the best Dolman. And for good reason too.

Despite having owned this pattern from its first release, I still haven't given it its own full review. So here we go.

My over bust measurement plus hip measurement puts me smack dab in the size XS. You know what that means? That means I refuse to lose anymore weight, because I don't want to not be able to sew this anymore!

So what adjustments did I need?
I removed 1/2" length from the high bust, and then moved the sleeve back down as it slimmed the sleeve too much. Then I removed 1" from the shorten/lengthen line. Because the "tunic" length is meant to hit at mid thigh (which I consider mini dress length), I removed 3" from the hem line to get this length. Next I did a 1" fba across the front only, pivoted back in at the waist as I didn't need any further width further down. This gave me exactly the space I needed in the full bust. Easy peasy. The pattern does NOT come with a v-neckline. I used my 1 Puddle Lane Miss Ruby Tuesday to copy over a v-neckline. V-necklines are really my favorite on me. Although I think this one could go lower, but overall I'm pretty happy.

Once I finished my adjustments, the sewing was SUPER fast. And since my muslin was all done, I couldn't wait to cut into this amazing french terry from LA Finch Fabrics. Finch Fabrics was totally amazing and sent me a collection of their fabrics to showcase for them. I have a lot more to show, so be sure to come back tomorrow, Monday and next Thursday as I've got some great stuff to share!

Now this french terry is amazing. The sad thing is, I totally snagged up the last few yards, so you can't buy your own. But there are several other well priced french terrys available here too. And while normally I wouldn't sew something like this with french terry, this french terry is silky soft and has an amazing feel and I couldn't resist. This fabric doesn't drape as softly as some other ones, so if you're going to use something NOT drapey, bring in the hem. I should have done that here, but I'm still going to wear it, exactly as is.

And of course, as I promised, I have a coupon code for you from Finch Fabrics! Use coupon code: summersew20 to save 20% off your entire order (excluding shipping). Code expires Wednesday, May 18th. That is an amazing deal. I've got 3 more posts of their amazing fabrics if you need more inspiration and encouragement. And if not, might I just suggest you consider their gorgeous chambray too? ;)

I hope we've been able to inspire you to Dive Into Dolmans. If you managed to miss any of our previous posts, Shame on you. (just kidding). you can find the complete list of the entire series linked below. Until next time!

Sewing By Ti- Sew Much ado Sea Farer

Sewing By Ti- Create Kids Couture Donna’s Dolman