Hi Everyone!
Today I am sharing my version of a pattern that I have had in my stash for a few years. It’s Vogue 8825, which, at the time of writing, has more than 50 reviews over on PR.com, which is testament to how popular this pattern has been. Why did it take me so long to make this pattern? A couple of reasons. First, it requires fabric with two way stretch (stretch both width and length-ways), and I really wasn’t sure which fabric to go for. Second, it is a fabric hog, requiring 3.5 metres even for just the tunic version.
The inspiration for my version came from Trine Schroeder over on Instagram. I adore everything that Trine makes anyway, but I just loved her version of this particular pattern. So much so, that I might even have used the same fabric as her. Speaking of which, the fabric that I used is this crepe jersey fabric from Minerva Crafts, in the colourway dark blush. This fabric washes, sews and presses well enough. This fabric is thick enough to skim over lumps and bumps, but not so thick it feels unpleasant to wear (it is a polyester spandex mix). Originally I thought I would be making the dress version of this pattern, but once I had the fabric in front of me I felt that in this particular colour, a dress version would have been worn rarely. I decided a top would be worn more frequently over jeans or my faux leather leggings etc.
As ever, you can read my full review below, but in short, I am so glad that I gave this pattern a shot. I love the colour, the shoulders, the sleeves, the way the pattern is so cleverly designed and how the neck and collar are formed. It is an empire line top, which I am not a fan of, and that is why if you are making this top/ dress, you really need to make sure you do a FBA if you need one, otherwise the empire line will not sit in the right place. Thank goodness for the generosity of other bloggers: Cenetta had a photograph of how she did her FBA on her blog and that’s exactly what I did. So thank you, Cenetta!
Pattern Review
Pattern Description:
Pullover tunic or dress has front extending into back collar, fitted, pleated, surplice bodice front, raised empire waist, tie ends, two-piece blouson sleeves with barrel cuffs, and stitched hem. Fitted, straight-leg pants (below waist) have elastic waist.
Pattern Sizing:
8 – 24
I cut the size 18 through the bust, arms and shoulders and graded out over the waist and hips.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes.
Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the shoulders and their curved front seam lines, I love the sleeves. I think the design is so clever; the way the neck and collar is formed. I love the whole bodice/ sleeves from the bust up. I don’t love the empire line, but I figured out a way to wrap the tie which makes it wearable (for me).
Fabric Used:
A polyester/ spandex crepe jersey with two way stretch.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
- I did a 5/8ths inch FBA, following the advice on The Mahogany Stylist’s blog. The FBA is crucial if you think you need one, otherwise the empire line will not sit in the right place.
- I did a 5/8ths inch full tummy adjustment.
- I did a 5/8ths inch full bum adjustment.
- I cut a size smaller for the cuff size and the belt (the belt is long!)
- I shortened the sleeve by 1.5 inches.
- I ended up shortening the (tunic length) hem by 3 inches, and left the hem raw.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I don’t know if I need another one of these in my wardrobe, but the dress version in a solid neutral might be good. Yes, I definitely recommend.
Conclusion:
Easy to sew (I mainly constructed on my overlocker, basting some parts on my machine first), but with maximum style points. A great pattern to have in the stash.
This tunic top also fits into Meg’s #sewtwistsandties challenge. Check out the hashtag on Instagram for lots more fun and inspiring makes!
This is super flattering on you! Both the color and the fit are perfect. Would look smashing with burgandy velvet wide legs pants for a holiday or evening event. Congratulations on your usual fabulous job of sewing, showing and sharing. I love it, but with my long waist and FBA, I don’t think I’m brave enough to try to make it fit…but if you ever get tired of it…. ;>)
Chuck
Thanks Charlotte. I like the idea of blush and burgundy.
It looks great, the colour is lovely and you have got the fit perfect.
Thanks Julie.
This fits you beautifully! Bravo!
Thanks Kelly.
Stunning and thanks for the links for the adjustments. Looks amazing!
Thanks Angela.
This is stunning! The cut is beautiful and the fabric gorgeous.
I’ll admit that after seeing your animal print dress recently, I hit the purchase button at Minerva. I’m tempted by this too, but need to sew a few things up first to make room for more new fabric. Thanks for being so inspiring!
Aw thanks so much. 4 metres of this fabric came in at just under £20? I added a matching thread so qualified for the free shipping. A good buy I say 🙂
Absolutely! You can’t argue with that!
This looks so much better on you than the pattern envelope! I have seen that pattern but would never pick it but looking on the pattern on you, I could be tempted. Looks fabulous and a great colour.
Thank you so much Summerflies.
I love your style. The blouse is beautiful.
Thanks Kay.
Beautiful top, Manju! I love that colour on you. ❤
Thanks Andie.
Such a pretty colour, this top looks great in you!
Thanks Linda.
Beautiful color and style on you. I love it. Your rendition looks better than the envelope picture (the print dress), the green tunic on the envelope is better. Cennetta’s version is beautiful too. Maybe choosing a solid color is better than a busy print? Don’t know but I will be definitely looking for this pattern. Thanks for posting this.
Thanks Robbie. It’s definitely a great pattern…upto you whether you are a print or solids girl.
very pretty and I think this pattern would be gorgeous in silk jersey. I bought it years ago but have never sewn it up 🙂
Thanks Beth. I could definitely seen you in this in a silk jersey. Blue or dark pink? 🙂
I absolutely love this on you!
Thanks Karen.
Perfection – I love how this has turned out!
Thanks Janet.
This is so FABULOUS!!!! 😍😍😍😍😍 Loving this colour on you too!
Thanks so much Abbey.
This is just so pretty and the color is gorgeous, love this so much. I think I am going to copy it!
Thanks Lori: of course, I am flattered you want to copy it.
It really suits you, fit, colour, style….everything. Well done!
Thanks Gayle.
Manju, this suits you so beautifully.