Stitchin' in My Kitchen

The next stop on my pattern tour of pussybow blouses is the Sew Over It Pussybow Blouse.  I decided to do Version 2, which is the attached v-neck (on the right, as opposed to the open v-neck), since Version 1 is almost exactly like the Style Arc Holly I had just made .  This was going to be another trial version or wearable muslin, so I used an inexpensive polyester woven from Mood fabrics.  I cut the size 10 based on the finished garment measurements.  This sewed up very quickly. It's not a complicated pattern and I had basically just done the same thing with the StyleArc version, and most of the major construction components are pretty similar.  I did not put the little buttons on my sleeve cuffs, not because they are tiny and fiddly but because I don't like button cuffs and I was happy just sliding my wrists through.  No other deviations from the instructions.  The results: This fabric makes me look like I escaped from a hospital for...

Over the past couple of years I've made several versions of the Colette Patters Myrtle dress, in both knits and wovens.  For some reason, I find myself not wearing them as often as I intend to, even though they are easy to make and easy to wear.    So what’s the problem?   I realized there are a few fitting/design issues that keep me from really loving this pattern that I really want to love! One, I don’t think the wide, almost-off-the-shoulder neckline is a great look on me. It isn’t the most flattering since I have slightly broader shoulders and back.  Two, there is a lot of fabric that drapes in front of my torso in a not-so-cute way (although it does make it beer and burrito friendly!). I’m pretty certain this is because Colette drafts for a bigger bust, so what can you do.   Finally, on a breezy day that front drape can blow off to one side and then I am getting way more exposure than I need.   So! I decided to modify this pattern ...