I am part of the Imagine Gnats pattern tour and I chose to sew up the Bess Top for myself. One of my goals this year is to sew most of my own wardrobe, so it was the perfect choice.
There are many other bloggers posting, so make sure you check them out for inspiration.
I used a faux silk that is very sheer so I layer it with a camisole.
I knew right away that I would have to alter the pattern a bit because it starts at a size 2 and I am size 0, but it was an easy fix. I simply printed out the pattern and sized it down using simple grading rules. I also curved it in a bit at the waist because I had a feeling it would be a bit big on me there and it worked like a charm!
This pattern went together so easily and the directions were very clear and understandable. I love the subtle high-lo hem and feel like it is super flattering.
The Bess Top has different length options and I chose the shortest one and shortened it again by about 1 inch and it was perfect.
Although it is a bit hard to tell in my photo, the Bess Top has a really neat construction on the shoulders and sleeves. She has designed it so that you only have 2 pattern pieces, but end up with a really neat sleeve. Super cool! There is also a sweet little pleat that I love.
I definitely plan to make a few more of these tops for summer. I think my next one will be a knit and with some color blocking?
There is also the option for a dress and tunic too!
Of course, with any good post, there are always outtakes.
Enjoy.
Thanks for having me Rachael!
All patterns are 20% off in her shop with the code “januarytour”, so take advantage of that, for sure.
Now, you can enter to win your very own copy of the Bess Top and Dress pattern with the easy entries below. Good luck!
Hayley
Hayley Crouse is a wife, mother and multifaceted designer. Her love of sewing, crafting, cooking and interior design infuses her daily life and naturally spills over into her online presence. She pushes the envelope of her creativity and hopes that others will be inspired to do the same. She currently authors the Welcome to the Mouse House Blog, is the pattern designer behind Mouse House Creations and is a collaborative designer with Willow & Co. Patterns.
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I love the fabric selection, the shirt is so pretty. And you are hilarious!
ha ha ha! i love the top and the jazz hands pic is definitely my favorite 🙂 thanks so much!!
You look so pretty and I have the same boots! I should say I had the same boots. Mine are too beat up now.
Looks great! My goal is to sew for myself more this year as well. I would love to know the basics about grading a pattern up or down. Future post maybe? 😉
Love this! I really need to start sewing for myself more often. Your hair looks great by the way!
I really like your fabric choice. The top looks great on you.
So lovely!
You’re hilarious! I love the top
I really adore this version. I wouldn’t have thought of using a sheer. So pretty!
Very pretty! And, my son loves that rollercoaster toy ha.
Love the top and your “real” pictures and outtakes. I’m excited to see more of your sewing for you this year. 🙂
I think the top is beautiful and looks comfortable. I think I’m gonna try this pattern even if I don’t win one. Thanks for the chance though.
This is so adorable on you! I love that print….also, I wish I had your hair. 😉
I have been looking for just this kind of pattern for a while now. 🙂 I do love the fabric choice you made and the perfect way you altered the hem line. I was thinking that when I find the perfect pattern I would fill my closet with only these tops. 🙂
~Blessings