I tend to choose tops that are fitted through the shoulders and bust, but then flare out loosely over the mid-section.  Simplicity 1323 is a good example.

The Simplicity website says:  Stay comfortable and chic with this sportswear pattern for Misses. Draped knit top has option of contrasting band, and can be worn with pull-on knit pants and stylish infinity scarf.

I sewed view B, possibly in size 12 (I’d need to pull out the pattern to check).  It was actually very straightforward.  One pattern piece for the front, one for the back, one for the sleeve, plus a long piece cut on the cross grain for binding the neckline.  The centre front seam made it very easy to bind the V-neckline – this is done before sewing up the centre from seam, so there is no awkwardness navigating the angle.  You just need to make sure that you pin it well to line it up perfectly.

The rusty orange knit came from Super Cheap Fabrics, and was described as a dry knit. It’s a bit of a crepe texture, and has a good weight for such a flared style. The folds just fall straight down.

It was also super easy to hem – lots of straight lines! I used Vliesofix (double sided fusible) tape as usual to secure the hems before top-stitching. Most of the construction was on the overlocker. This was a quick sew.

The pants are a pattern I’ve used before (but not as often as I think I should – it’s great). It’s the Flat Bottom Flo, from Style Arc.

As Style Arc say on their website, Every butt has a different shape! This stretch pull on pant is for those with a flatter bottom. The back side seam comes to the front giving this slightly narrow legged pant a slimming look and the back yoke adds to this flattering shape.

Whoops, pant leg caught up on the back of my shoe! I sewed size 10, in a printed stretch bengaline I found at Super Cheap Fabrics. I did shorten the pattern pieces both above and below the knee to account for my 158cm height These were SO fast to sew! The back yoke is a nice detail, and I really like the forward side seams. Together this top and pants make a comfortable work outfit. I do still have some wrinkles at the back leg, but that is a combination of both the style and how thin my legs are compared to the rest of me. It’s a big change to get from the sizing I need around my middle to the sizing I need around my thighs! The stretch in the bengaline and elastic waist combination mean that I can get pants to fit me comfortably but not be ridiculously large in the leg.

I’m pretty happy with this outfit combination. It’s not “wow”, but it’s a steady, sturdy performer.  (And Style Arc, if you’re listening, I have a friend who has requested a “Big Bottom Betty” pant that would work well for her figure!)