Pattern Review: S8344+ The Body Suit

Hi there!  Well, I’m coming to you with another pattern review.  I sewed up Simplicity 8344, this is an Ashley Nell Tipton pattern, if you don’t know who she is, she won Project Runway, the only plus sized designer to do so.  She has two patterns and I have them both!  She is a great designer that happens to be plus size, she also has a line of clothing at JcPenny.   This was a quick and easy sew and I’m not a body suit type of gal, what if I have to pee!!!

If you’re not following me on Instagram, you should.  I share a lot of ideas, construction info and all around shenanigans.  It’s also a good place to ask questions and get inspiration in addition to my Facebook groups.  I’m visual so Instagram is great for me, I will be rounding up some of my monthly makes on the blog that I don’t officially “review”.  Up until this point, I posted on a bunch of review sites, and the blog and I think sometimes it’s a bit redundant.  I think I will review somethings as complete reviews (new patterns or patterns that there are  not many reviews of) and then do a round up of my makes that I share on Instagram.

On to the review:

Pattern Description:
Ashley Nell Tipton designed these knit bodysuits sized 18W through 34W
to fit and flatter your lifestyle. Available as a tank top with a
V-neckline in front, low scoop in back and optional ties or bands, and
as an off-the-shoulder style with two sleeve variations and optional
halter neck ties and flounce. All use snap tape closure. Bodysuits can
be worn for casual or for a night on the town.

SEWING LEVEL:  beginner.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?

 
Yes

Were the instructions easy to follow?

 
Yes

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

 
Very trendy and flattering, love the off the shoulder look.  I like all the different options to include a flounce.

Fabric Used:
ITY knit from FabricMart

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

 
I cut a straight 24 as that is my size per the envelope.  I gave myself one inch seam allowances and didn’t need them. 

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?

Yes and yes.  I think this would be a cute swimsuit too!
I would make a few changes: I would make the neckband a little bit bigger and use 3/4 or 1/2 inch elastic.  I would also guide the elastic until you are comfortable, the elastic guide was too long for me, I took about an inch and half off and it was still slack.  I would cut a size smaller for the neckline, I used a straight 24 but the shoulders were a little big for  my taste.  I jacked up the snaps at the bottom, I used what I had and it wasn’t the right size, your snaps need enough tape so you can sew, I used my zipper foot and it was still not how I wanted it.  This possibly can be sewn with no center back seam.  I may also just sew it together at the crotch, but I wanted the option of using the bathroom without getting completely undressed!

Up next: my June sewing plans and the challenges I plan to participate in.

I’d like to here from you, have you made a bodysuit yet?  do you have plans to?