Animal Print with a Twist!!

This is the second garment I finished last month and made this year as a participant in the RTW fast.  I used another older pattern from my stash and it's also out of print.  I love the knot detail in the front of this top and think it creates a very flattering shape when worn.  I chose a semi-transparent novelty knit from my stash and it was wonderful to work with.  I also loved that it was an "off the beaten path" animal print in shades of olive green, brown and cream.

The Pattern

The Fabric

The Details

The front pattern pieces are unusually shaped and when sewn together creates a knotted empire detail in the center front.  I was happily surprised when I did my first fitting, it was a very flattering detail on myself.  This top had very few pattern pieces and sewed together quickly.  I made one alteration to the sleeve by giving a little bit of length and then adding elastic.  I find this sleeve more flattering and comfortable on me than one that cuts off at the armpit.  I chose to wear this top over a neutral colored camisole since it's open in the front and semi-transparent.

Likes/Dislikes

I made view "C".  It has the collar and stand and is the shorter of the 2 lengths offered with this pattern.  I love how the bottom of the bodice skims the body.  There is a center back seam that gives shape to the back of the garment.  It allows the garment to fit and follow the contour of my back nice and smoothly.  One dislike was how the collar and stand were supposed to be attached to the neckline.  I didn't like the way they were just stitched on, turned in and stitched down.  I inserted the seam allowance into the collar stand for a clean finish.   I also liked the elongated collar and stand.  It has an elegant look that's a little more dressy than a more squared off collar.  I hand sewed the neckline and down the center front opening with a double fold.  It gave everything nice neat, clean finish.

Tips

This was a semi-transparent knit fabrication and think it worked really well for the front twist.  If I had used a heavier fabrication, it may have ended up looking bulky.  Heaven forbid anything adds extra bulk around the middle, right?  Even though this twist detail isn't as popular as it used to be, I think I may make this top again without the collar.  I like to sew things that look flattering on me, and that's not always the latest fashion.  If I make it up again, I will choose a fabrication that is a little trendy to make it relevant.

I added a 1/2" of fusible tricot interfacing to the hemline to give it a little body before overlocking/serging the edge and then hand stitched the hem in place.  It helped make the hemline nice a flat while still allowing for stretch but no waviness.

I love the way this pattern gives the illusion of a smaller waistline and skims the body.  It's comfortable and perfect for a dressier look for work.  This pattern was another winner this year.  I think it can still be purchased as an out of print pattern if you're interested.  Have a Happy Creative Day!!

Roxanne