FS Hana dress made with FS Black lightweight cotton poplin

I tend to sew whatever I want, regardless of the season. Granted, extreme seasons will force me to sew warmer garments more than sheer or cropped. However this year, I have focused more on using seasonal mood boards to guide projects and styling.

If you have not tried this exercise, I encourage you to do so! It is quite fun to explore inspirational images (I personally use Pinterest since its easy to use and you can “pin” anything!), adding to one visual location. And stepping back to view ultimate consistencies or themes is very eye opening. Here is my Fall mood board, in case you are curious.

FS Hana dress made with FS Black lightweight cotton poplin

In case you didn’t click the link- What are my fall themes, you ask? Hehehe

Heavily influenced by neutrals (think blacks, navy) with pops of color. With menswear nods, and academia styling (think vests, blazers, loafers). It is quite the turn from color, patterns, layers that exploded in my brain during the summer months.

I like to stay fluid and ever evolving.

FS Hana dress made with FS Black lightweight cotton poplin

When I was approached to review the Hana Pattern, the first question I asked myself was “Will this fit my current mood board?” Luckily for me, most patterns can be modified or made in various material to change its ethos. Also lucky for me, the Hana Pattern didn’t need much.

I was drawn to the wrap style bodice of the Hana. It is all about the details! Specifically in the waist shaping. Sure it has multiple skirt and sleeve lengths (which I love for options), but what attracted me most to this pattern was the waist belt. The waist itself is brought in with multiple pleats- changing direction to form this perfect “puffs” of fabric- the pleats since at the waist and eventuate the bust, in the most appealing  way. The skirt is affixed to the bodice top with a faux belt (think of it as your waistband), with skillfully added interior ties as well as an external tie, there is no way that the skirt will fly up and open to expose your bits. The interfaced facing really helps with that. 🙂

FS Hana dress made with FS Black lightweight cotton poplin

I wouldn’t casually say this is a dress for beginners, so take note. But what I can say, is that each step has clear instructions and you won’t ever feel too confused (as long as you read every word and not skip ahead like I did and miss out on a crucial step…to live is to learn.)

As for sizing, I landed between multiple sizes based on the size chart. Although there are no lengthen/shorten lines on this pattern, I was able to remove 2” from the bodice to ensure the waist sat on my natural waist. It was perfect, 10/10.

The overall shape is elegant, and in this Cotton Poplin– it is crisp and structured. Although the waist belt is fitted, the bodice has more ease for a very effortless feel. This dress would be absolutely lovely in a lightweight linen for the summer! But it serves its purpose for me this fall: moody and sophisticated; pairs perfectly with loafers.