There are a few things that I sewed last year that still need to be blogged! First up, the only one that is still in my wardrobe.
I have used this fabric for a couple of garments in the past but never got the match of sewing pattern and fabric print right (neither of those garments stayed in the wardrobe for long). I think that this combination is the right one. The Pattern Fantastique Aeolian tee is an excellent canvas for this deadstock cotton/spandex print (bought from the now defunct Clear It in Smith St).
You’ve seen the Aeolian on my blog many, many times now, and I have no doubt that you’ll see it again! As per the description on the website, The Aeolian is the perfect boxy cotton tee, as tall as it is wide.
It has a square shaped sleeve, strategically inserted to the armhole for maximum 3D body. Sized down, it makes a perfect sheath. Neat, but not tight. Excellent in a glamour knit for a super clean, mini, cocktail dress. Sized up it responds with mega drapes and kaftan-esque volume.
A print of this scale and style requires some thought before cutting out. I considered where the dominant dark sections would fall, as well as which part of the print would run along the hemline. The final placement worked well. I topstitched along the raglan seamlines and used topstitching to secure the neckband.
The Aeolian tee is definitely one of my tried and true patterns. The wide hem and cuffs really elevate things. It’s an excellent palate cleanser pattern for when I just need to sew, but don’t want anything too complex. Maybe I need to make another one soon!