While I think the reaction in the sewing blog world has been less than enthusiastic about Colette's new pattern, the Laurel shift, I was thrilled. In hindsight, I probably should have been less excited about this pattern, given my many issues with the Sorbetto, but I jumped on the Laurel as another try at perfecting my essential shift pattern while supporting an indie designer. And, somewhat surprisingly... it fits!
I'm saving my dress reveal for Julia Bobbin's second Mad Men Challenge (I'm In! and making Several Items! by the way), but today I have a lacy version of V. 4, the top. Version 4 is a blouse (basically just the dress lopped off at top length) with elbow-ish length sleeves and no zip, which is great. It has two pattern pieces along with darts front and back, so it was really easy to whip this up in a little over an hour. My dress is made in a slightly stretchy fabric (cotton sateen-y?) so I was concerned this top would be a little snug, but it fit perfectly. This is a size zero, by the way.
Taken at Videri Chocolate Factory! |
I made mine a breezy summer shell in a 100% cotton eyelet picked up for 30% off at Joann's. It is unlined--in the photos I'm wearing a tan tank top underneath. I left the sleeves off, since I'll almost always be wearing this with a cardigan, as I do with all of my clothing, and sleeves seemed like more trouble that they're worth, especially since I couldn't get them to ease nicely in my dress--and then couldn't determine whether or not they are actually intended to have a slight puff!
interior finish--ignore those threads and look and my nice french seams! |
rolled neck hem! |
I french seamed the sides. Instead of finishing the neckline with double fold bias tape, I did a quick rolled hem. I treated the sleeves the same way. It was easier than I thought it would be and cut down on time. It looks nice inside and out!
dramatic angle brought to you by a tall boyfriend |
One issue I had with the pattern is that for the top version, they omit the zipper, but neglected to eliminate the back seam. I did this myself in approximately 1 minute, but it seems like an oversight. Another is that it would be really simple to give instructions on leaving it sleeveless. I understand a lot of people don't need instructions for that, but it would have been nice to include for beginners, especially since this is a super easy pattern labeled right for them!
Overall, this is an expensive pattern for what it is, but I'm finding it well worth the purchase price: it seems to fit me very well right out of the packet, and I think I will make it many times over!
Facts!
Fabric: slightly less than 1 yard cotton eyelet
Pattern: Laurel from Colette
Year: 2013
Notions: none
Time to complete: 1.5 hours
First worn:
Wear again?
Make again?
Cost: fabric for $13 and pattern for $18 but I've already made it twice, so... $23?
I have three more yards of this eyelet left--you'll be seeing it again :)
i think the fit is wonderful! i like the lace look around the bottom but if it means that the shirt will need to be ironed after it gets washed i would hem it straight across and not look back!
ReplyDeleteI think that is what I will do. It looks cuter in real life (I thought) than in these photos but it will be easier if its hemmed.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to do my own laurel in different fabrics soon, a 60s shift , perfect!
ReplyDeleteWould you be interested in a 60s sew along that am thinking of organising soon?
yes, certainly! I'm also participating in Julia Bobbin's Mad Men Challenge, I hope you are too! Looking forward to seeing your orange Laurel :)
DeleteI love how you left the bottom lacey-very cute! I have this pattern too. I wasn't super excited when it was released, either, but the longer I sit on it, the more I get excited about it. I think it's so versatile and really great for some dressed-up basics. Can't wait to see your other versions!
ReplyDeleteThis is adorable! I love the eyelet-- great job, girl! You look cute as a button! I was really excited when I saw this pattern, too... I'm a '60's girl, so this is right in my wheelhouse! Hoping to finish my Laurel this weekend. :)
ReplyDeleteMy roommate wants to buy one!
ReplyDelete2016-04-11keyun
ReplyDeleteghd hair straighteners
louis vuitton bags
nhl jerseys
louis vuitton handbags
michael kors
adidas trainers
concord 11
pandora charms
prada handbags
ralph lauren outlet
adidas superstar shoes
tory burch shoes
air max 90
ray ban sunglasses
replica rolex watches
coach factory outlet
ray ban sunglasses
oakley outlet
ralph lauren outlet
jordan 11
ray bans
christian louboutin shoes
timberlands
jordan retro 11
ray bans
louis vuitton outlet
fitflop sale
cheap jordans
jordan retro 13
christian louboutin sale
polo ralph lauren outlet
coach outlet online
kd 8
red bottom shoes
tiffany & co
retro 11
ray bans
canada goose sale
nike huarache black