Butterick 5925 tunic and Colette Mabel
There aren’t many gaps in my wardrobe, but I did identify one for long sleeved tunics in solid colours. But I didn’t want to just make a whole lot of long sleeved tees. I’ve added a few Katherine and Marcy Tilton patterns to my stash recently, and pulled out Butterick 5925 to make this navy tunic.
It’s really hard to see the design lines in this dark fabric, so here is the line drawing.
The pattern description from the website says: MISSES’ TOP: Pullover top has neckline and pocket variations, seam detail, and shaped hemine. A: slightly draped neck and pocket bands. B: pocket binding. A and B: semi-fitted, stitched hems. C and D: loose-fitting, hem band, and narrow hem. B, C and D: neck binding. Wrong side shows on hemlines, and C and D pocket openings. I made stye C, but without the pockets. The fabric is a polyester crepe knit from Spotlight. It’s actually rather lovely to sew and wear.
I’m trying to remember what size I made; it was probably a Medium, and I’m pretty sure that I petite-ed it by folding out an inch and a half through the body at the marked shorten/lengthen lines. The seams are interesting; there are princess seams in the back and forward angled seams at the front but no seams at the side where you would usually expect them to be.
I like the fit through the body but think that the shoulders are a little too wide. I’ll size down to a Small at the shoulders next time – and there will definitely be a next time for this pattern. In fact, I have view A cut out in a grass green polyester crepe knit, also without the pockets.
The skirt is the Colette Mabel, in the view with the back pleat and the side front panels. For a bit of interest I cut the side front panels with the print running the opposite way to the rest of the skirt. Can you tell? This time I made a Medium throughout. The fabric choice really affects the fit – this one could have done with a Large in the waistband. But I can still wriggle into it! The fabric is from Darn Cheap Fabrics – I was lucky enough to find this small piece in the remnant bin!
I really like that little pleat at the centre back, and it is super simple to incorporate. This was Mabel number three – I still have to show you number four and five!
These Butterick tunics offer lots of opportunities for mixing and matching prints and colourways, as seen on the pattern envelope. I find myself more and more drawn to designs such as those from the Tilton sisters. They and other “art to wear” patterns are the sorts of styles that I used to think of as “middle aged women clothes”. What does that say about what I am becoming?
This is a really lovely outfit Lara. Very flattering.
Lovely outfit! I’m pretty sure I’ve said this before. I love the way you pair colours and this is no exception. Looks great on you.
Did you know that Marcy and Katherine Tilton have a crafty class called ‘The Ultimate T- shirt’?
I meant Craftsy. The class also comes with a free Katherine Tilton pattern.
I definitely don’t think you look middle aged in the Tilton garments! I think the fabrics you use and the way you style the clothes makes them look young and fresh. I really liked your Jaywalk dress – I bought the pattern when it first came out but then chickened out of making it (like you, worried about the middle-aged thing!) – but I think I am going to have a go now, after seeing yours!
That looks really pretty on you! In fact, I am now adding this pattern to my purchase list:)
This ensemble is very classy and looks great on you. Re middle age … For me, growing older has freed me to wear much different – and better – outfits than when I was younger. When I was still working, one of the staff described me as “elegant bohemian.” I took that as a compliment! 🙂
What a great outfit! I think the top suits your to a T and the style is very flattering for you. Really like the skirt. Cool fabric. This is such a polished looking outfit with no hint of middle age as far as I can see.
I think you look great!
I’ve been moving in the same sort of direction with my sewing plans. I’ve just ordered a lagenlook sewing book (Bold & Beautiful Clothes). My poor husband will be so sad; he thinks I should be wearing Nettie bodysuits and Vogue 1247 skirts (at the original patterns length). Bless his deluded heart… 🙂
Lovely outfit, looking very stylish!
I agree the Tilton sisters patterns do come across as “middle aged” on the envelopes, but your make is not at all. Love the colours and how you have styled it.
Gosh I love this outfit! Everything about it – but especially that skirt – love the fabric and the fit – nice one Lara.
What a great combination. I love the skirt fabric!
Great outfit. Smart but looks comfy to wear. Love the red and navy together.