As I sew more clothing for myself, I try to create pieces which will last and fit with my existing wardrobe staples. However, I also find myself looking into fashion trends again. The 80’s and 90’s have come back again with a mixture of looks. I didn’t think I would be into high waisted jeans, but I just bought my first pair (after these photos were taken) and LOVE them! With young kids, you never have to worry about running around with them and accidentally showing off your plumber skills (Eek!)
With mid and high-waisted pants taking over, I see so many tops being tucked in. Overalls are back in a big way, so slender layers are needed. While taking these all into mind, I thought I could really use a Fairelith Top (aff link) by Blank Slate Patterns in my closet. This body skimming version was what I was looking for and I knew it would also be perfect tucked in with my Moss Skirts which you can see here and here.
I wanted a little more color in my closet while staying pretty classic, so I chose this fantastic mustard stripe Blake cotton knit jersey (aff link) by Carolyn Friedlander. It is a great tone with my olive skin and pairs SO well with denim, black and other blues (the predominant colors I wear!)
When I first measured myself for this top, it was before the holidays and I cut all my pieces. But of course the holidays got the best of me and it ended up a wee bit more snug than I would have liked. :/ Luckily, I was able to get my body back on track so I could share this make with you (a few months later…) Although, next time, I will definitely make a larger arm. As I’ve mentioned before, my arms are heavy for RTW based on my waist and bust measurements….so I should’ve known the arms would be slightly too tight! You can see all the extra folds around my armpit area. But it’s my fault for being too anxious and not making a muslin. (Rookie mistake…) Melly Sews does include instructions to narrow out the neck…so maybe I’ll move up a whole size and then use that adjustment. (I’ll keep you update and let you know what I do and how the process goes.)
This neckline is just gorgeous, right? The ballet neckline hits at just the right spots on the shoulders so it’s not falling off. I love how it shows the collar bone and is perfect for a statement necklace. Bandana scarves are pretty hot right now and would pair well with this kind of opening.
The open neckline continues to the back. With my short hair, this ballet opening highlights my neck well. I like this different style, which I haven’t seen much in other indie designers.
With a raglan sleeve, this make comes together quickly. The hem and sleeves are all pressed under and finished with a twin needle. I like to use wooly nylon (aff link) in the bobbin for a little extra stretch and comfort with this method. When sewing, it’s good to leave long thread tails and stretch out the hems afterwards. This is just in case you have some tension issues and the bobbin thread was pulled too tight.
Even with the puckering around the armpit, I still love the design features of the Fairelith Top (aff link) and can’t wait to make another (with the right adjustments!) The extra folds do not matter to me on a day-to-day basis. But if you run across the same issue, a jacket or vest like this one above can help you hide it. Lol.
Happy Sewing Friends!
Cristy