More black and white

I bought this pattern from E-bay a few weeks ago.



I've wanted a "sundress" but didn't want the "stappy or halter type" so this seemed a good one to try. I've always liked the dropped waist patterns, and the "tied" shoulder seams looked cute to me.

I had some black (cotton with a bit of lycra) with white embroidery that gives a look sorta like eyelet. I only paid $1/yd and I got 5 yards. Seemed worth a try without a "muslin" first. If it didn't work out, not much was lost.

I did cut 1" side seam allowances and I'm glad I did; I had to let it out a bit at the hips. Here's the WIP (work in progress):



I really like it with the exception of the "ties." They aren't good for this fabric. They don't look like the pattern picture. I think the fabric is too thick/heavy whatever. On mine (see my right shoulder in the pic), the tie just looks like a "knot with two very short bunny ears sticking up." I've been thinking--what about making a buttonhole on the front extension and pulling the back through the buttonhole--then maybe gathering up the shoulder seam a bit and secure with a little band of fabric.

I'll keep thinking on that possible solution and let you know what I finally decide to do. I hope I don't just lay this aside for weeks or months as I think it has potential.