I’m not usually a big fan of Butterick patterns, I have to admit. If I had to describe their general style in a word, I’d probably go for matronly. But I was just browsing through their new spring releases, and I have to say, a couple caught my eye!

This dress is my favourite. I think the waistband would be flattering, and I like the interesting neck detail. I’m usually quite wary of wrap tops/dresses, because in my experience there’s always a bit of gaping going on, or it slides down awkwardly around my bosom and makes me look lopsided. But maybe this one would be okay?

This pattern is actually part of a set – a shift dress, blouse, skirt, pants and jacket. It’s probably mostly a result of the fabric they used, but I really like all of it! Especially the dress and blouse.

Who knows when these patterns will become available in NZ – it’s quite depressing how long it takes for the new releases to filter through down here, and then the price of them makes it difficult to justify buying them.

Also, not part of the Butterick collection, but how awesome are these culottes from Style Arc?

I admit, I’m reticent to try another Style Arc pattern after the Camilla blouse disaster, but these culottes have me intrigued. Culottes have been a bit of a hot trend in the sewing community lately, and I’ve resisted so far. My memories of culottes as a child include poo-brown ones I had to wear as a Brownie that rode up my crotch, and I’m not anxious to repeat the experience. That said, these are flowy and, from the description, seem like they’d have the appearance of a skirt – kind of like a long version of the Megan Nielsen Tania culottes, perhaps? I’m intrigued. They’re not available as a PDF yet, but when they are, I might give them a go.

Are there any patterns you’re particularly excited about at the moment?