Hey Everyone,
Can you believe that this is the fourth time I have made this (now out of print) pattern? I have made two versions using view B (see original posts here and here):
And the very first version made using the view that I made again for this post, view C (see original post here):
Let’s talk about how far my fitting skills have come since I made the version about 5 years ago! Compare that version to my new version:
Granted I had a slight cutting mishap with the first version, but 5 years ago I had never done a full bust adjustment. I used to cut a size based on my full bust and after the fact wonder why the top or dress didn’t used to fit me properly. This time round I actually cut a size smaller and did a 3/4 inch FBA. There are some advantages to becoming older and wiser 🙂
BTW, the fabric used for this version is this sage coloured polyester crepe de chine from Fabworks. The colour is beautiful. It is somewhat resistant to pressing, the plus side of that is that I have washed this blouse, hung it up to dry and not a crease in sight.
You will notice that I made a very easy modification to this blouse to convert it to have a skinny tie that comes through the hole on the right hand side and that I can tie in the front or back. I did also add a security press stud at the neckline. The one thing I will say is that the sides on this top stretched out almost straight away, and somehow when I went to cut even the edges up it looks like I didn’t do a very good job cutting that front because it does look decidedly wavy! Oh well. It hasn’t stopped me from wearing this blouse.
Fitting/ Alteration Notes
- I did a 3/4″ FBA. Don’t know if I should have done a 1 inch one, but I did a bit less because the fronts are cut on the bias so I figured they would have some stretch. I rotated the bust dart to form gathers at the shoulders.
- I took a 0.25 inch tuck from the front edge.
- I did a 1 inch full arm adjustment.
- I added about 10 cm to either side of the sleeve opening to make them slightly more balloon shaped and added an elastic casing.
- I left a small hole in the seam on the right hand side.
- I added long skinny ties to fasten the blouse and a press stud at the neck opening for security.
I am surprised at how much I do love this blouse. And when I look back at how far I come with my sewing and fitting skills I am proud.
Have a great week ahead!
that looks great and I love the rotation of the bust darts to gathers, that is such a pretty look
You should be proud, what a difference! This shirt is SO flattering, it honors the body it’s on.
I LOVE the new version with your alterations! And I think the bit of a wavy bottom edge looks deliberate, actually. At least I assumed it was until you explained otherwise!
That mint color is spectacular. Thank you for showing us the progression of your fitting skills. I’m new to sewing and it gives me encouragement that I too will get better
Hello there I love your sewing and your clothes! Another great creation by you Manju. But I’m curious how do you get so much done? Maybe you should write a blog about how you organize your sewing time to be able to accomplish so much. I would really appreciate it being someone who works full-time as well and working on the same linen pants for the last three months! Thank you.
Hi Laura, thanks for the comment. Lol. I will think about making a blog post on that topic. Disclaimer: I work 3 days a week so I am already 2 days ahead of you. Having a dedicated sewing space also massively helps. I will think about a blog post.