I've run into my first set of real fitting issues with the two halves
of my third Frankendress. The bottom is just fine since it is the MN Ruched Skirt that I've used 4 times now.
The top, however, is a hot mess.
The top portion is V8633, minus the center back zipper. The pattern is fine and actually probably would fit my pre-pregnancy self well. However, I did not make an FBA. And at this point - with 2+ extra inches of bust - that was a mistake.
I did cut a size 12 so that I would have extra room. However, what I really need is extra length, not width. The lower darts end at the bust point instead of below and letting out the shoulder seam a little has only led to there being too much room in the armscye (ie: my bra band peeks out b/c it is too low).
Additionally, this pattern bodice has both a neck facing and a lining to support the collar. But I decided to save myself the trouble of the lining, which was a so-so decision at best. If the top fit, I wouldn't mind this so much, but if I recut, then I would probably go for the lining.
Now here is my dilemma: I don't know how I can alter the top that I've cut and sewn enough to make a difference. I have enough fabric to recut it or a different bodice for the dress. If I recut this, well, it's not a quick/easy sew. There are lots of darts on the shell and lining, plus facing, which needs interfacing. Also I would have to do an FBA and raise the armscye. I'm just not sure I want that much fitting work on a pattern that I already struggled to cut so that the print of the top and bottom would match. I'm not sure I'm ready to devote more time to this.
If anyone knows of a creative way to fix what I've got, that would be best. I really like the style of the top. Maybe sleeves would help? I don't know. Your suggestions are welcome! Other than than, here are the options as I see them.
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| Two separate halves of this dress |
The top portion is V8633, minus the center back zipper. The pattern is fine and actually probably would fit my pre-pregnancy self well. However, I did not make an FBA. And at this point - with 2+ extra inches of bust - that was a mistake.
I did cut a size 12 so that I would have extra room. However, what I really need is extra length, not width. The lower darts end at the bust point instead of below and letting out the shoulder seam a little has only led to there being too much room in the armscye (ie: my bra band peeks out b/c it is too low).
Additionally, this pattern bodice has both a neck facing and a lining to support the collar. But I decided to save myself the trouble of the lining, which was a so-so decision at best. If the top fit, I wouldn't mind this so much, but if I recut, then I would probably go for the lining.
Now here is my dilemma: I don't know how I can alter the top that I've cut and sewn enough to make a difference. I have enough fabric to recut it or a different bodice for the dress. If I recut this, well, it's not a quick/easy sew. There are lots of darts on the shell and lining, plus facing, which needs interfacing. Also I would have to do an FBA and raise the armscye. I'm just not sure I want that much fitting work on a pattern that I already struggled to cut so that the print of the top and bottom would match. I'm not sure I'm ready to devote more time to this.
If anyone knows of a creative way to fix what I've got, that would be best. I really like the style of the top. Maybe sleeves would help? I don't know. Your suggestions are welcome! Other than than, here are the options as I see them.
Let me know your thoughts.
1) Ditch the top and enjoy wearing the skirt portion as a skirt (easiest option)
2) Alter the pattern and cut new top pieces (possibly most time consuming option)
3) Cut a different top to go with the skirt. Either of my two previous Frankendress tops would work. Or something else? Feel free to suggest other patterns.
4) Other??
