Two things inspired me to make these 2 tops I'm posting today. One was the release of Colette Patterns new Laurel shift dress/top. The second was reading Faye's Sewing Adventures post about her 2013 Essential Top Sewalong.
I was originally going to purchase the Laurel pattern, but realised that it is pretty similar to the plainest version of New Look 6000, which I already own and know fits me well.
I decided to take this version, shorten it to "top" length and omit the front darts. I had some flowery poly/viscose in my stash, so decided to make a muslin, which is surprisingly wearable (I have it on now!).
The hem is a little uneven, as the fabric was shifting all over the place, but it actually forms a curved hem that looks OK. I used French seams throughout except for the armholes, where I used false French seams. The neck is finished with self made bias binding. I've made it slightly too long, so it does stand away from my shoulders slightly, but not enough to make me want to take it off and re-do it!
Once I knew my plan worked, I decided to make another using that gorgeous 70's floral print viscose I bought recently.
I made a few alterations on this one. I wanted it to be slightly A line, so I placed the pattern pieces slightly at an angle on the fold of fabric. The neckline edge I placed against the fold, and angled it so the hem edge was about 3/4 inch away from the fold. It's given just the right amount of flare.
Again I used French seams thoughout (even on the armholes this time, although I know you're not supposed to on curved seams). I think they work OK though as the fabric is so soft and fluid. I took much greater care pinning this one out as well, because it would be so obvious if the pattern wasn't placed evenly.
The neckline on this is faced. I don't really like using facings, as I find they have a tendency to flip out, and I did have to top stitch it down. I'm happy with the result though.
I can see me making more of these over the coming months. I've got that gorgeous beige and black silk I bought recently, that I think would look fantastic made up in this style, and I'd also like a couple of short sleeved ones incase we should ever get some warm weather!
But first, I have 3 bridesmaids dresses to alter!
Love both tops but the print in the last one is super pretty!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the bridesmaids work!
Thank you. I love the print of the second one!
DeleteSamatha I am so very glad that you joined in! Your tops are beautiful - love the fabric. What a good idea using the great shift pattern. What a pretty dress form. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThank you Faye. The dress form is cute, isn't she? Her name is Rosie!
DeleteI can also see you making more of these- both look terrific!
ReplyDeleteThanks Judith! You'll probably get sick of me posting about these!
DeleteGorgeous, and I love the idea of using trusty New Look 6000 as a top!
ReplyDeleteThank you. I forgot to say, I omitted the zip as well, which made things even easier!
DeleteBoth are just beautiful.. But, I love the fabric in the bottom and I love, how you a-lined it.. Really great idea.. I too, had considered buying the Laurel pattern and thought, how similar it was to this one..[which I already have to].. Happy Sewing.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteReally great idea! Especially loving the 2nd version. I've got this pattern - now I must copy you! Haha
ReplyDeleteHi Sue, please do the same! I'd love to see how it works for you.
DeleteBeautiful! I really love that last print you used.
ReplyDeleteThank you Liza Jane. It's gorgeous isn't it? They do it in green too... I have to say I'm tempted!
DeleteI'm in love with the floral top! Perfect pairing of pattern and fabric!
ReplyDeleteThanks Gail. The 70's floral one turned out exactly how I'd imagined it - which hardly ever happens.
DeleteSam what genius!! And good ol new look 6000 wins again:-)
ReplyDeleteI particularly love the 70s floral fabric version, what an inspired pairing.
Thanks Winnie! Yes, another hit for good old NL 6000! I think if the weather ever warms up I might do another one with the little puffed sleeves.
DeleteBoth of your tops are very nice. I especially love the orange refashioned fabric. It is awesome!
ReplyDeleteThank you, I'm looking forward to wearing the orange one out to dinner tonight.
DeleteHi Sam, just a quick note. I nominated you for The One Lovely Blog Award/Very Inspiring Blogger Award. My apologies if you've received it before, but yours is one of my very favourite blogs and I wanted to reflect that on my list. Happy Sunday. Jacq x
ReplyDeleteThank you so much Jacq, that's really kind of you. I haven't recieved this award before, so I'm only too happy to accept!
DeleteLooks great and I'm inspired. I'm getting an inkling to establish a basic clothing pattern repertoire for me. Reading your tweaks is extremely helpful!
ReplyDeleteThanks Jackie. It's wonderful that I've inspired you! I too am trying to build some basics that I can return to again and again. I think I've found one with this tweak!
DeleteOoooo is gorgeous! I love the slight flare - and haven't you lined up that pattern beautifully!
ReplyDeleteI had my eye on Laurel too -but I'm waiting for a bunch of 50's & 60's patterns in the post from my mum and I know they're will be something very similar in there too...
Thank you! I think it took me as long to line that pattern up as it did to do all the sewing. I just knew it would look awful if the pattern was off.
DeleteHow exciting to be waiting for a parcel of patterns to arrive.