We entered Playa Del Carmen by ferry. The boat ride is a quick 30 minutes from Cozumel;  salt water breeze, sunshine and the sway of the sea rocking us into relaxation as we voyage.  

Between the coastline and fifth Avenue, Playa Del Carmen is primarily pedestrian; many of the roadways are blocked from vehicular traffic. The streets are lined with souvenir shops, restaurants, bars and art galleries. Everyone is very friendly, overly so, and trying to sell something.   

We traded a resort for a stay at a small, 20 room, boutique hotel at the end of 5th. It's perfectly charming. From the purple chesterfield in the lobby, to the hand-crafted and embroidered "Do not Disturb"  dolls that hang from the doorknobs, it's a warm and inviting environment. Generational family photos hang over wooden sideboards and cabinetry, and we feel instantly at home- guests at the hacienda of a very fortunate friend, perhaps. 

The complex is structured over three levels, each with its own outdoor patio area. Perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee and checking email (via complementary wifi). The main level courtyard features a pool, but the most impressive communal area is the rooftop flattop grill where in-house chefs prepare made-to-order breakfast, in addition to fresh fruit, toast and freshly squeezed juices, for patrons each morning (also complementary).

After our first full-day on the beach, a shift dress seemed the perfect pairing for my sun-scorched skin. Loose fitting, light weight, and breezy. 

Prior to sewing this project, I'd never worn a dress like this. I wasn't sure the straight-cut would be suited to my short stature and curvaceous hips. The shapelessness of the silhouette did make me a bit self-conscious in the beginning, but within an hour of wearing, comfort trumped all else, and I was at ease. For the first time, ever, I can completely understand the appeal of a muumuu.  

Not that I consider this dress to be a muumuu...

OK. There are similarities. The beach shift = Hipster muumuu? 

This is my best attempt at looking tragically hip. I don't have it in me. Not cool enough to keep from smirking.  Hipster card denied. 

These AMAZING action shots of me ascending/descending the stairs (I do my own stunts) do well at showing how breezy this dress is. 

Human wind sock! But, seriously, so comfortable. 

There isn't anything fancy here, folks. Machine hem and sleeve. Bias bound neckline. Easy. Fast. Satisfying.

Pattern: Simplicity 4514 View 2, c. 1960s 

Overall, the dress looks exactly like it's pictured on the front of pattern envelop. I didn't make any modifications, because, frankly, I didn't give myself the time. Will I wear it again? Most likely. If I make it again, I'd try to bring in the shoulder a bit- Mine are obviously narrower than the pattern anticipates. It would also be nice to adjust the amount of ease across the back to make for a closer fit.  My fabric is a light-weight rayon. The drape of it is perfect. I'm not really sure what the pattern is, heart shaped volleyballs?, I just liked the colors.