Sewing stretch fabrics

[Missunreasonable]

For those with good knowledge of sewing:
Does anybody know whether I can omit vilene bias tape from a stretch dress without it turning into a disaster? I couldn't get any tape at the haberdashery and I know that it helps to stabilise the edges but will the dress look reasonably decent if I do an overlock stitch instead of using the bias tape? The fabric is a two way stretch jersey and is reasonably thick.

Don't risk a disaster MissUn. Overlocking can still stretch especially on a curved seam and as the jersey you are using is 2-way stretch I think it's best not to chance it. You can buy the tape via mail order on eBay.

Thanks jamnan. I got impatient and used clear elastic to stabilise the shoulder seams and neck edge. I know I should have ordered some vilene tape and waited but I am short on the patience front. The dress is almost finished now, I just need to get a twin needle to do the hem and sleeve hems this afternoon.
I have ordered some vilene as I love the dress and I am gojng to make another one in a lighter weight jersey which will need stabilising properly. I think the fabric I used for the current dress will be okay as it has good shape retention (and the elastic and stretch stictch that I used and overlocked seams). I think this is going to be one of my favourite dress patterns as it was quick and easy to do and fits perfectly.
I do need to learn to be more patient and wait until I have all the recommended notions though

I think that should do the trick. I was afraid that you were not going to use any tape at all and just rely on overlocking. Enjoy wearing your new dress.

You don't need vilene bias at all, it's extra expense for nothing. For a wide neck edge, or if you must, shoulder seams, "stay tape" is what the professionals use - which is the stuff you see hanging loops made out of & is very cheap

Even without stay tape, if you are overlocking, it would have been fine, lighten the foot weight, feed the fabric through so that it doesn't drag & any stretch will be corrected easily with a shot of hot steam when pressing.