One of my goals this fall is to beef up my casual (weekend) wardrobe. I want easy comfortable pieces to complement what I already have in my closets. When I wasn't able to sew as much, I took advantage of those weekly pattern sales at JoAnn's and Hancock's. I racked up on patterns with many styles to choose from.
Today's review is on Simplicity 1317-F and Vogue 1355 (Sandra Betzina loose-fitting pants).
So let me start the review with Simplicity 1317-F.
Pattern Description: Misses' pullover decorated knit top. These tops are on trend and offer a lot of decorative options with studs, fringes, and fabric textures.
Pattern Sizing: XXS to XXL. I used a medium above the bust, large at the bust, and medium below the bust.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes. My embellishment was slightly different, but the design lines are as pictured and drawn on the pattern envelope. No dislikes.
Were the instructions easy to follow? This is a very easy pullover sweat shirt type of top. I didn't need the instructions, but I did take a look at them and didn't see anything difficult or confusing about them.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? As I stated above this type of top is on trend now. It is simple; it offers style embellishment options; and it's a great pattern to use to beef up your casual weekend wear. It took about 1.5 hours to sew.
Fabric Used: Sweater like knit and a soft ponte knit. Both were purchased at my local JoAnn's.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: It is very forgiving when it comes to fitting. This was a plus for me as I didn't spend much time making fitting adjustments. I added the waistband to view F. I did not add the studs on the neckline and my fringe is faux suede much shorter than the fringe pictured on the modeled version. I wish I had double the row of fringes.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? Yes and yes. I've already made a second version. But I will review that one later (Mood Sewing Network project).
Conclusion: This is a great pattern for beginners. It easy and offers opportunities to add trendy embellishment. It's also a top to use to beef up your fall casual wardrobe.
Vogue 1355 loose-fitting pants are just as easy to make as Simplicity 1317. This is the second time I've made them and plan to make more. They look a little like harem pants, except the drape is on the inside of the leg, which gives an interesting look to yoga styled pants.
Pattern Description: Misses' top and pants: Pullover, lined top (close-fitting through bust) has cut-in back armholes. Pants (very loose-fitting through hips) have waistband, inside leg drape, no side seams, and tapered lower edge. A, B, C: narrow hem.
Pattern Sizing: A-J; I used size D for the pants.
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes they did. Exactly.
Were the instructions easy to follow? A piece of cake. No problems with the instructions.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I liked the unique draping of the pants. This is a nice alternative to the standard yoga style pants. No dislikes.
Fabric Used: I used a jersey knit from Vogue on Roosevelt Rd.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I made only two changes to these very easy pants. I added about 4 inches to the length and inserted wide elastic into the waistband. Instructions 2 indicates that you shouldn't have to, but I wanted an added layer of security. They fit snug and the elastic helps with tummy control.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I will definitely make them again and do recommend them to others. Easy and comfortable. You can't lose.
Conclusion: This a easy pattern to sew and is a change from the standard yoga style pants. Easy.
