Community Model Highlight: Delaney

We are really excited to have partnered with several amazing makers in our community for the launch of the Holmes Dress! These community models are going to help us showcase the pattern on various bodies and in different fabrics! 

About Our Community Models: This is a paid partnership. We work with the models to help decide which size to make and which fabric to use. They are sewing the final version of the pattern and they are not pattern testers. The intention is to have them showcase the pattern in their size and in a fabric that suits their personal style. They are also welcome and encouraged to make adjustments. If you are interested in becoming a community model for our future patterns, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!

Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns

Holmes Dress Community Model: Delaney Dangerfield
(@her.two.hands and @saltlakesewciety)

Delaney is the amazing teacher and maker behind Salt Lake Sewciety in Salt Lake City, Utah! She is a very talented sewist who is spreading the love of sewing one class at a time with her work teaching others to sew. She works really hard teaching countless classes and running a fabric store. We thank you, Delaney! Head to her website to check out the awesome selection of fabrics, including the one she chose for this project!

Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns
Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns
Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns

Measurements: 31” bust / 25” waist / 34” hip (78.7 cm / 63.5 cm / 86.4 cm)
Height: 5'2" (157.5 cm)
Size: 2
Adjustments: Small bust adjustment and shortened the bodice by 1 inch (2.5 cm).
Fabric: Cabana Poplin in Kona (100% Cotton, 3.2oz/sq yd)
View: A (longer dress)

Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns

From Delaney

Whether understitching the neckline or easing in the sleeves, I found the Holmes Dress to be incredibly satisfying to sew. I love how it is fitted in the bust without being too tight in the waist and hips. The deep pockets are perfectly practical and the ruffle adds just the right amount of femininity for my taste. On my next version, I will likely do my buttonholes before basting the bottom edge of my bodice together just to make it easier to get under my buttonhole foot. This dress is so versatile, and I look forward to playing around with styling it as the seasons change!

Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns
Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns

Our Thoughts

I was so happy when Delaney suggested this cotton shirting fabric for her Holmes Dress. I have wanted to see this dress in a stripe and it did not disappoint! I also love the way the crisp cotton holds its shape and accentuates the gathered hem tier. 

Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns

Delaney is petite and so shortening the bodice was a good call. For other petite sewists out there, you can also shorten the bodice above the bust line if you want to bring up the neck, too. 

Holmes Dress Sewing Pattern Community Model - Delaney @her.two.hands - Helen's Closet Patterns

I can see this dress being great for all seasons! This colour can transition into fall with tights and boots and a cozy cardigan. Speaking of boots, I love how Delaney styled this feminine dress with a more masculine boot. It’s a great combo! 

Thank you Delaney! We love your Holmes Dress!

Get the Holmes Dress and Lazo Jumpsuit for 25% Off - Helen's Closet Patterns

The Holmes Dress and the Lazo Jumpsuit are both on sale this week for 25% off! No coupon code required. If you purchase both patterns during the sale, you get an additional 10% off! Coupon code automatically applies at checkout. Sale ends March 18, 2026.

Shop the Holmes Dress and Lazo Jumpsuit

Do you have feedback or questions about this blog post? Please reach out to us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!

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