As I was scouting out potential patterns for the tunic that would work with my less-than-large bust and "athletic" torso (ie: Irely on design lines to help me define a waist and give me curves). While on pattern review, I came across my tunic fabric on a Jalie pattern envelope:
I love this fabric. I think it's going to make a great tunic. My concern is trying to find a pattern that is loose but has shape without a belt and isn't too billowy. Ideally, I'd also like it to have a longer sleeve. These are my best options so far:
Kwiksew 3737 which reminds me of Simplicity 2497 (the non-ruffle view), and although the quilt-fabric extravaganza (eww) on the Kwiksew envelope is tempting, I am more interested in the long sleeve version.
I love both of the versions of Butterick 5610, unfortunately neither are long-sleeved, but I think I'll pick it up at the next sale for some summer sewing.
Simplicity 2191 looks like it could work. Princess seams that will help with fitting and a couple of extra patterns included that might be okay (pants/shorts). The only thing I don't really like is how "tunic-y" it looks. I'm looking for something with pleats or something, or will that even matter with the busy pattern of the fabric? Probably.
I can't decide wether or not to like Vogue 1247. It's so large and slouchy that I don't think it would help me in the figure-flattery department. I like the skirt too, but it would have to be lengthened, and I'm not 100% sold on the pockets. It looks a little like a waitress apron, and a horizontal line right across the widest part of my body just doesn't seem wise. When it comes right down to it, I think I really just like how cool the girl looks.
V8534 is probably the winner. It isn't crazy wide across the bust, and I like the variations (minus the weird bow. I think I like the grey version best if I could get rid of the bow. The curved seam above the bust and the side bust darts appeal to me, as does the potential for a v-neck without the bow.
The purple I got for the pants I plan on trying to make is a very dark stretchy purple suiting. Since this is a Hail Mary to begin with, I didn't pay too much attention to the fibre content beyond it's wash and dry-ability.
I'm planning to make these:
BWOF 04/2008 #106
– except they will be full length with no piping. The intention is to wear them with boots. I think the curved seam in the back will be flattering, and once I realized that there were side seams, I relaxed a little about fitting them. Of course, I will make a muslin, and I'm going to try to work through this project in a calm and thoughtful way so I don't abandon it halfway through because I'm scared it won't work out.
I have many projects to post—I just haven't had the time or inclination. Hopefully I can devote some time to it over the holidays next week.
