Burda 5/2009 131 and 132 - Part 1

The May issue of Burda World of Fashion has loads of pretty summer dresses. One that caught my eye, is 131 and 132 which are really the same pattern - just one is knee length and the other is a maxi dress, made longer by adding a tier to the skirt . The V-neck will help draw the eye up and the empire waist camouflages a thick waist and large hips (all of which I have).
It's a pity they are not using a true plus size model for the photos. In the photo for 131 you can't tell anything about the dress other than the cool print fabric used. The photo of 132 shows the empire waist and a little of the V-neck. I looove the fabric used for 132. If you go to the burda website they have these pictures for a limited time here: 131 and 132

Burda's descriptions

131 - As hot as a summer night! The African-style ethnic print attracts attention as do the adjustable empire line and imitation leather straps on the shoulders.

132 - This slightly flaring full-length dress achieves maximum effect. The airy printed crêpe chiffon swirls around your figure while the adjustable empire seam accentuates a deep neckline.

The straps are sewn on the top after it has been constructed, and the dress is fully lined which you could skip lining the skirt if you wanted. With the side zipper and drawstring empire waist it looks oh so comfy! 131 is made with leather or faux leather straps, and the straps are wide enough to hide the bra straps. (yes I am weird, I absolutely hate to see a bra peeking though or any sign of undergarments, call me old fashioned) I have traced the pattern for 131, and need to do up a test, but I am still looking for some fabric (going fabric shopping on payday) to use for the finished dress. Living in Florida I see the need for a few of these dresses for hot summer days.

When looking at the line drawings they look kinda 'blah', but with the right fabric choice these could be 'WOW' dresses for summer and throw on a cardigan and boots you could get into fall, and if your adventurous wear a turtle neck under with a blazer in the winter.