Pattern Review: Simplicity 8138 + straps and African print

Oh my goodness, am I obsessed with African prints or what?  This is my wearable muslin and I like it.  A quick sew with some possibilities.  I don’t know about my expression, it must be the heat!

Pattern Description:

Misses separates. Create an edgy look that is easy to sew. Includes tunic with cap sleeve & waist belt with d-ring fastener, high low hem tunic, midi length tunic with high slits, & pull-on pants with yoke and pocket..

Pattern Sizing:

14-22

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, very!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?

I loved the edgy on trend look of view b, I like the attached belting and the easy variations to a longer tunic type top.  I wasn’t happy that it didn’t have a dart, but I do love the slight caped sleeve!

Fabric Used:

Cotton African print from Joann’s fabric

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:

This is a wearable muslin..
*I cut a size 22 for the neck and armhole, I graded to a 24 at the bust and graded back to the 22 at the waist ( My cheater FBA)

*I took some advice from Mrs. Charisma and took out some of the bulk by grading back down to the 22 all the way to the hem.

*I also took the advice of the other reviewer and sewed and additional three inches to the side seams for modesty.  I should have lowered the attached belting about 1 to 2 inches as they were directly under my bust, but it was ok.

*I didn’t have D rings so I used a 1 1/2 buckle from Hobby Lobby instead.

*I also added an extra 20 inches to the longer strap (without the buckle) so I could wrap around my waist twice.

Note: I would recommend wrapping your measuring tape around your waist to mimic the picture to see if the belting is long enough before cutting.  My belting has a seam as I added the extra after the fact.  I probably could have added an additional 12 inches  instead of 20 inches to the one strap and reduced the strap with the buckle about 5 inches.

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

Yes, I plan on making this in a fabric with a better drape, maybe a silk:)Maybe add contrasting straps.

Conclusion:

I like this pattern and I like the edginess of the straps and the ability to add dimension to a top and help define the waist.  I may use my sloper and add a dart of a better fit.  Give this one a try.