This top was finished just in time to wear it to church on Sunday and I was amazed at how many compliments I got.

Here’s my review:

Pattern Description:  An empire waist top with bias skirt and three sleeve variations.

Pattern Sizing: 4, 6, 8, 10 ,12

 Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes!  I made the view C skirt with view A flutter sleeves.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, they were fine.  Just keep in mind that you’ll be jumping around between the sleeve and skirt variations, so don’t get confused. 

Also, I wish patterns that call for a particular kind of fabric or seam finish would take that into account in their directions.  I’ve been sewing for many years, so I know when to use french seams, but it could be helpful to beginners for the pattern to have said, “You’ll want to use a french seam here.”

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I was concerned that the style might make me look pregnant, but the bias cut kept my lightweight fabrics nice and drapey.  I would be careful about using any fabric that’s too heavy or stiff.

It’s difficult to get the back zipper to look nice on the bias skirt.  Next time I’d definitely use an invisible zipper and shorten it a bit. 

Fabric Used:  For the underskirt and lining I used a loosely woven, semitransparent fabric that I think might be rayon.  For the overskirt and sleeves I used a 4-way sheer stretch knit.  I didn’t bother to cut the knit on the bias, only the woven.

 Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:  According to my measurements I needed a size 18, but it only went up to 12, so I cut all vertical seams with an extra 3/8″.  This worked out just right.  I also moved the bust gathers so they would be under the fullest part of the breast.  Seems kinda silly to have the gathers off to the side!

Instead of narrowing hemming I serged a rolled hem on the skirt and sleeve edges.

If I had it to do over I would cut out the bias skirts in advance and let them hang for a day or so to stretch out.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I would make it again, and am looking for more sheer fabrics to use. 

Conclusion:  This is a really cute top and I can see it becoming a wardrobe staple.  You just have to make sure to choose appropriate fabrics for the style.

Like my tutorials? Support me on Patreon for weekly peeks into my creative process and a bonus video every month!