I’m a fan girl for gingham…and challis. gingham + challis = unicorns O.k. maybe not quite unicorns, but close enough to sewing bliss for me.
Challis is so buttery smooth it’s like the epitome of summer. Breezy, fluid and easy to sew. It has its moments tho because it frays like crazy, but we’re still besties.
As for gingham, it’s just an old-school cheery pattern that’s made a come-back. It’s having it’s moment in the sun again and I’m so here for it. But, and there’s always a but, the one thing about a big check gingham is that it can hint towards summer a little too much. Kinda reminds you of picnic table clothes, lol…so I’m careful when I chose larger prints.
This black and white print is from fabric.com and I used Vogue Pattern #9242. Why this pattern hasn’t gotten much traction I don’t know, but with the right fabric it’s perfect.
I made no alterations to the pattern. As you can see, there aren’t many areas for fitting issues. It’s all just preference. Since I have a small frame, I tend to shy away from stiff volume that sits proud of my body. I can see where a billow cotton that has some crispness will be too much for me, so I opted to sew this in both a challis and a drapey crepe. Equally, the fabric selection adds to the appeal of the drape of the off-the-shoulder sleeve.
On the first iteration, I wasn’t so conscious of where I placed the front strap. The placement makes my bra strap visible, so I’m wearing this with a strapless bra. On the second version, I wised up and placed them to cover my bra and now it’s more functional.
Overall, I love this top. Two versions is good enough, so on to the next project.
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