Ahem: Here is the top that I
stitched up with my granny's circa 1970 Kenmore "zigzag" sewing machine. Honestly, it was a dream to sew on. Now I understand the sewistas (and one very bold sewister) who thrive on these beautiful old machines. The only thing I did on my fancy modern machine was use a double needle for the hem.
This top is BurdaStyle
2/2011 -102. I'm sure this will become a staple in my work wardrobe. It's a great pattern, with a few adjustments and notes. The top is meant to be close fitting, possibly even styled with negative ease (I didn't measure, but it seemed that way). I was glad to have left 1" seam allowances on the side seams; I used them. Also, I'm fairly tall at 5'9", and normally add 1' to the top half of a pattern. I added nearly 3" to this top and still had a few photos that have been relegated to the "outtakes" file because of tummy peek. See...
 |
| Tug, tug. Really, the skirt is riding a bit low, too. |
The other thing to note is that this top is about as low cut as I would ever wear to work, and it has pretty wide set straps/sleeve-lets. I love this neckline, but will have to be more careful with the bra I choose. The racerback I was wearing in these photos is a no-go.
 |
| Tuck in those straps, Clio! |
At the end of the day, I'm very happy with this top in particular and all the recent additions I've made to my professional wardrobe. But I think I'm done sewing for work, at least for now. Next up is my seersucker dress. Then I have two incredibly fun summer projects which I just can't wait to tell you about and begin sewing... just as soon as I organize myself and my thoughts. More on this all in a few days! Happy sewing!
