When I bought this pattern, I had no idea that it would not come with sewing instructions for the lining/overlay. This pattern was definitely for someone with more experience. But my daughter wanted a good replica of Sleeping Beauty/Princess Aurora, so I tried my best.
I wanted the perfect fit. One thing you have to remember in sewing, the pattern sizes are NOT the same as the sizes you purchase off the rack. I've tried three times and ended up having to take in all 3 garments. So this time, I was determined to have the perfect fit.
So, this time, I had carefully thought out the process. Since I wanted a perfect fit, I decided to use some knit for the bodice for a slight stretch, and I measured the pattern even before I cut. With my younger daughter's dress (she's a 4T off the rack), I remembered cutting a 3 and still was too large (it actually fit my older daughter who is an 8 off the rack but was a bit short). I measured all bodice pieces in a 3, and deducted for the seam allowance. The measurements matched up, but I added an extra inch in length. Then I cut an 8 for the skirt because I wanted the length up to her toes.
I worked the bodice, tried it on, and it was perfect! The bodice was actually the easy part. When it came around to the skirt, I had a hard time. The skirt alone had 16 pieces, then add the overlay of the same amount of pieces. So all together, I had to work 32 pieces, and then hem that bad boy!
Anyway, the results were terrific! I couldn't be happier, and my daughter absolutely loved her dress that she did not want to take it off!
