Yes, I definitely have more success with the Lekala patterns that are shown on “fuller figured” models. Such as Lekala 5801. The illustration:
And my version:
Okay, I’d better show it to you without a scarf obscuring the details! There are five pleats at the centre front, a roll collar, and bands finishing the hem and the raglan sleeves.
I’m not entirely happy with the collar, as it is rather floppy on. Somewhere between a band that is way too loose and doesn’t sit flat, and a cowl which isn’t wide enough to drape down or to fold in half. But it’s fine with the scarf!
I really like the fit through the body. Having the centre front pleats means that the front of the tunic is wider than the back, so it skims over my central bulk. Yet at the back it’s loose, but not too loose. And raglan sleeves are SO easy. Other than the front pleats and some minimal top-stitching, this dress was entirely constructed on the overlocker.
The fabric is a double layered knit that I found at Super Cheap Fabrics in Brunswick. My shopping companions also bought some – but I haven’t seen any finished garments blogged yet! The top layer has holes in it, but it is attached to the grey underlayer. I’ve been sewing in black/white/grey for myself quite a bit lately, even though I don’t think that they particularly suit me. But they do make an excellent foil for a pop of colour elsewhere in my outfits!