Monday, May 9, 2011

Simplicity 3503 top

My maxi dress dreams are slowly being realized, beginning with this first draft of the pattern. I had to make a lot of adjustments to the tissue to allow for a full bust as well as raise both front and back neckline. I decided to make up a "wearable muslin" out of some poly knit from the stash.
It turned out pretty cute, and I'm mostly pleased with the tweaks I made. It's also really comfortable and I can nurse easily in it. In fact, I like it enough to enter it in Made by Rae's Spring Top Sewalong. Today is the last day for entries, so get your top into the Flickr group by 8PM!
Here's the back. I raised the neckline about 2 inches. It was LOW! Although this is fine, I think for the final dress I will add another inch or so. I like the little tie at the beck neck, although I raised the back neckline enough that it really isn't necessary to keep the top on my shoulders.
I'm happy with the neckline in front, but I think for the dress I'll give myself a little more space over the bust, as the midriff band creeps up onto my bust just a tiny bit. I probably only need another 1/2 inch or so. I'll also tighten up the neckline just a tiny bit. With wear, it gapes open just a little. I also want to move the shoulder gathers more toward the front where most of my fullness is.
I think the underbust gathers are well positioned, but you can see here how the midriff band is creeping up onto my bustline. I'm also not a fan of the gathers concentrated around the middle of the skirt, but I can't decide if I want to eliminate them altogether or just distribute them more toward the sides.
So, did I miss anything that you would change? I'm a little scared of cutting into my irreplaceable 40+ year old Qiana. Even if Mom does think it's tacky.
Parting Shot:
Myra wanted in on the photo shoot, too. She's learned to pose, just like Mommy!

10 comments:

BConky said...

Good job on the FB adjustments. Look at this blog of mine that shows an adjustment that I make for myself and all my daughters who are chesty also. I think the gapping above the bust is common on large chested girls. http://catsandcalico.blogspot.com/2011/04/vogue-8724-custom-fit-cups-for-megan.html

Beangirl said...

Girl, your mom is smokin' the crack. That is so not going to be tacky.

And here I thought she was a font of motherly wisdom. -tsk tsk tsk-

Heather said...

That last pic is so cute! Looks like you're on your way to a great fit!

Anonymous said...

It looks great. I made that and had all the same complaints but easy fixes. I did add the extra to the bottom of the front bodice and it turned out great. Now I am going to have to make a top out of it because yours is so cute. That is the problem with reading blogs, they just make my to do list grow and grow:)

Karin said...

It looks lovely on and you look very pretty in it. By the way, you hair looks beautiful too, so shiny!

gwensews said...

That's very pretty. You should enjoy wearing that top, and have no misgivings abou making another.

Anonymous said...

I like the tie in the back. Cute feature! Looking good.

Cindy said...

You'll have to wear your hair up with this top 'cause the back details are so nice!

Marjie said...

Funny how 70s tacky became teens cool, isn't it? I like the top; it will make a great dress, too.

Dr. Fun (AKA Sister) said...

Cute picture! That is a fabulous top and will make a great dress.