Now, I'm new to this, perhaps I am overlooking the potential of a given pattern. We'll see with time. But I was surprised I could actually narrow my search on the initial gathering.


The above Vogue knit dress pattern V8513 looks more like a date dress than a day dress, but maybe with the right fabric it would look nice without being too formal during the day. The shoes make a huge difference.
The basic design of the dress is nice and simple and classy: high back, hem below knee, waist tie and frilly skirt. I think I like all the options for sleeves as well.

V8489 is one of the only dress patterns I saw where the waist curves higher in the front and lower in the back. That is flattering to the figure and while I'm not a huge fan of v-necks I would sew this pattern to see the effect. The hem is a little longer, at mid calf, which also moves this pattern toward a more formal style than day ware, but again, maybe with the right knit...Now this is definitely one I will sew. I love everything about this McCall M5577 jumper- comfortable-looking, cute, a bit silly- and an undisputed daytime dress.

Here is a McCall M5804 (somewhat younger-looking) dress that looks an awful lot like the dress I like from Apologique. I actually like this design more because here the skirt flares while the boutique dress is tight fitting. A nicer look for evening, but I'm a good year away from dates at night.
Above is the velvet dress from Apoologique that is somewhat like the Hillary Duff pattern.





This Burda blouse 7821 attracted me to this pattern, but I think the dress would make for a nice beach cover-up or simple comfortable day dress. The skirt is short enough that shorts tights might look okay under them.










