Vogue 8786

Pattern Description:
From the back of the envelope: Loose-fitting, pullover dresses A, B (fitted through bust) have back neckline slit with hook and eye closing, narrow hem.  A: purchased bias tape finishes necklines and armholes. 
This pattern is rated as very easy and I totally agree--that is if it fits you straight out of the envelope.  :) 

Pattern Sizing:
Multi-sized.  I started with a 14.  Not exactly what I ended up with. 

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, the lines are the same.  Of course, I made some modifications. 

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yep!  Very easy, no issues with the directions.  I didn't necessarily like the order of construction, but that is a personal choice for me. 

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
Likes:
Easy-fitting style. 
Shape of the dress--I just love those extended sleeves. 
This didn't take too much fabric.  Nice! 
Dislikes:
This was a fitting nightmare.  More on that later. 
Bias tape finishing for the neckline and armholes?  Nope, not for me! 

Fabric Used:
A lightweight, stretch denim from Joanns.  I purchased it a month or so ago and it washed beautifully and the colors remained vibrant.  It was easy to handle and sew.  Not bad for Joanns!
 
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I used self-fabric bias tape for the neckline and armholes.  It looks so much nicer and will wear better in the long run.  I also think it gives this very simple dress a little more design oomph. 
I made my usual 1/2" swayback adjustment and it wasn't enough to take care of the fabric bunching midback.  I ended up taking the side back and center back seam in and additional 1/2" at the waistline and lifting the back up into the yoke about 1"  I guess that's what I get for not making a muslin. 
Instead of a hook and eye closure, I used a round button and part of an elastic hair band.  I didn't think the hook and eye would wear very well. 
Believe it or not, I shortened the hem by about 2".  I am 5'7", so that was a surprise. 
I lowered the neckline by 2 inches.  It just seemed to strangle me with it so high.
 
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I will most likely sew this again, I am eyeing a cute ponte print I have in my stash.  I think it will be perfect for fall. 
I do recommend it to others.  It is an easy style and if it fits you well straight out of the envelope, you'll have an instant gratification project. 

Conclusion:
I really love this dress, especially with my super cute shoes!  It is an easy style, and although it caused me some head scratching in getting the fit correct, I loved the challenge!

Thanks for reading!
Sue