I found this cotton at Ikea and with it’s Japanese style print and dual tone colour scheme it was just crying out to be a Kimono Style dressing gown. So that’s what I did.
For the pattern I took guidance from Erin’s knit robe for bridal shower presents. I also looked at To Be Continued and another one that I can’t find now! In the end the pattern was a combination of multiple patterns plus looking at my own winter dressing gown.
The whole thing came together pretty quickly (yay for overlocker on most of the seams!) and I like how the contrast fabric works with the colar band. The sleeves are pretty wide but it sort of goes with the Kimono-esque design.
I also added slits up the side for ease of walking. I’m hoping to get lots of wear out of it this summer.
I am pretty happy with how it came out. The one thing that is a little disappointing is that the fabric is quite stiff and I was hoping for a softer cotton feel. Hopefully after a few washes it will be better.
Any thoughts on how to make cotton more supple and soft?
Pattern: A combination of a bunch of online tutorials
Fabric: Fish and Fan printed cotton from Ikea
Alterations: First version of my own patter
Do it again: Maybe…but I’m not sure how many gowns a girl can have! Next time definitely pick a really soft fabric
Dodgy Zebra 
Must check out Ikea for cottons – love the fabrics.
They mainly have homeware type fabrics (heavier weight) but there are a few nice light cottons. This one was actually came as a pre-packaged unit (not on a bolt).