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Lou Box Dress 1

SewDIY Lou Box Dress 1 cotton 2

I’ve made 1 other version of this Lou Box Dress No.1 from SewDIY which is in my ‘rework this piece entirely’ box of unloved sews.

I don’t really fit in to the current size range of SewDIY, but I bought the pattern anyway (back when I was less stubborn than I am now).

SewDIY Lou Box Dress 1 cotton

While this version of the dress is fine, the previous version was uncomfortably tight where the drop-sleeve shoulder met the arm, it was far too short and it was also basically impossible for me to remove it without getting my arms trapped.

Sizing Details: I sewed the XL/XXL (for up to 50″ hip) and am wearing it here with a 54″ hip

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Lou Box Top Maxi-Dress

SewDIY Lou Box Top Dress Rayon 2

This is a dress hack of the Lou Box Top from SewDIY and the earliest surviving example of my makes with this pattern (others have been given away to smaller friends or chopped up to make smaller versions for other friends).

I cut out the bodice piece without attaching any of the optional hem pattern pieces and then made a rectangle of fabric to become the skirt, which I gathered in at the waist. The skirt is actually 4 different pieces of fabric (and the pattern definitely doesn’t mix), but I really don’t notice it much.

SewDIY Lou Box Top Dress Rayon

This is some of my shoddiest workmanship (I think I folded the neckline in on itself and sewed it down because I didn’t want to make bias binding), but I wear it a tonne around the house (and maybe out to the supermarket) in the warmer weather!

Size Details: I’ve sewn the XL/XXL size top and added a rectangle of fabric that was larger than my hips. I have a 47″ bust, 43″ waist and 54″ hip.

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Cropped Lou Box Top

SewDIY Lou Box Top Linen

I had sewn a few earlier versions of this Lou Box Top from SewDIY but have given them away to friends or chopped them up to make smaller versions for other friends.

I don’t actually fit into SewDIY’s size chart, but if I rely on some generous positive ease, then there’s enough room for me to fit into the pattern, even though it doesn’t look as cool as slouchy as intended.

SewDIY Lou Box Top linen 2

This very cropped version was made in a very small amount of leftover linen after making some culottes for summer, and I achieved it by simply cutting out the bodice piece without attaching any of the optional hem pattern pieces.

I really only wear this with high-waisted skirts & pants, but it’s a great neutral that ties in with most of my wardrobe!

Size Details: I’ve sewn the XL/XXL size (which is for a 44-51″ bust) and am wearing it with a 47″ bust and 43″ waist.