Simplicity 2614 giveaway!

I was stitching away on my fun springtime dress, when I decided that I needed some trim for the neckline and front band. I didn't have anything in stash that spoke to me, and I didn't have time to run to the fabric store, so rather than waste good sewing time, I grabbed one of my SISC projects to do up. I had white thread on the machines, so that determined my choice.

The winner was Simplicity 2614, and y'all, I'm just not thrilled with it. I really like the IDEA of this top. It's woven, but bias cut, so that it can fit nicely without needing closures. It has 45 reviews on PR as of this posting, and they are generally positive, and I like all the blouses that I see there, but I don't think this one is for me. When I put it on, I feel like I'm wearing a scrub top, which is something I spent far too many years avoiding to enjoy now.

It's too bad, as the pattern is really well designed and nicely drafted. The back is cut on the bias, which is shapely, even without darts, as is the lower front panel. One note about fit (and several reviewers on PR noted this as well) the underbust seam is a bit high in the larger cup sizes. In the top picture, you can see that it doesn't even come below Sandra Dee's (perky and youthful) bustline, and I sewed the seam with a 3/8 allowance to get some extra room.

The major change I made from the pattern was to omit the facings and use bias tape to finish the neckline. The tie conceals the topstitching, so it looks pretty nice, although if I were not making a view with a tie, I would probably line the front bodice instead. I also skipped the cuffs, as by the time I got to that step, I had tried it on a few times, and was sure it wouldn't be in my closet long. I just made a plain hem on the sleeves.

So, on to the giveaway!

I think this is a good pattern, even thought it is not for me. It is now OOP, but if you would like this (uncut) copy, it is yours for the asking. It is a size 6-14, and I will happily ship anywhere on the planet. If you'd like to enter the giveaway, just leave a comment saying so (and be sure to include contact info, so I can find you if you are selected!). I will draw a name from those who are interested on Wednesday, April 11th.

** This giveaway is now closed. Thank you!*

Do you see the sneak peek of my seersucker dress in the background? I think it's gonna be awesome, y'all.