Sew and Tell with the Roxanne Top

Who's ready for another Sew and Tell Review?!?  Today we have the Roxanne from Victory Patterns sewn up by our friend, Bec.  Victory Patterns has a stunning collection of fresh designs for women available on our site.  The Roxanne is a gorgeous blouse featuring a trendy high-low hemline and a comfortable, loose fit.  High-low hemlines are all the rage right now, and we know you'll love getting to sew this one up yourself!  You can opt to make this top sleeveless or with a 3/4 length sleeve.  Two neckline options are provided so you can create a look that uses either a tie closure or a fashionable triple pleated collar.  You can mix and match these options to create several different looks!  Gotta love a pattern that gives you more bang for your buck! 

Speaking from experience, Victory Patterns has very professional patterns that will produce a finished product you can be proud of.  This line of patterns reads more like a traditional paper pattern than a PDF because the directions are concise, and it is assumed you have knowledge of some basic sewing terms and techniques.  Be sure to pay attention to the "Beginner" or "Intermediate" labels provided on the pattern covers to choose the ones most appropriate for your skill level.  The Roxanne is suitable for beginners, so feel free to dive in!  Once you read through the review below, make sure you get your copy of this pattern for 25% off!

A few other highlights in regards to this pattern include:

*  Fits sizes 2- 16.  Be sure to measure yourself and refer to the size chart provided.

*  Measurements are given in both inches and centimeters.

*  Fabric requirements are between 2 1/4 and 2 3/4 yards depending on size and the version chosen. 

*  There are 36 pattern pages to print out.  The pattern pieces are digitized and all sizes are nested together.  An optional copy shop version of the pattern is provided if you'd like to have the pieces printed out on one large sheet. 

*  A 4-in square is provided to check the printing scale.  Also, the grainlines are clearly marked, notches for matching are provided, and other marking are clearly labeled by referencing the helpful symbol legend. 

*  The Piece Inventory, Cutting Instructions, Cutting Layout, and Glossary all ensure you'll have no problems getting started.

*  The entire tutorial is 12 pages long and jammed pack with helpful diagrams and expert directions.

*  There are no zippers or buttonholes, but you do have to attach a hook and eye on Version 2. 

 

Let's take a look at the smashing version Bec has sewn up and read what she has to say about the pattern!

 

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I have been sewing since I was 12.  I would classify myself as an intermediate, perhaps a little more to the advanced direction as there was a large period of time in the middle of then and now when I did not sew.  The pattern, for me, was not that difficult to put together.  It took me about 3 hours total from the time I started cutting the fabric to finishing the top completely.  I was going slower than I usually would and taking time to read all the steps carefully so next time I would hope it to take a bit less time.  For a beginner, there may be a few challenging moments if doing the option with sleeves and attaching the binding. 

 

 

The actual pattern was excellent.  The pages and pieces were all clearly marked, the paper was easy to put together after printing, and I was clearly aware of what piece was what.  The directions were easy to follow.  I had to read the pocket instructions a couple of times to see what they wanted me to do, as I had never done this type of pocket before.  Also the way the binding was put on was a little different than how I had done it before, but it was good to learn a new way of doing it.

 

 

The only thing I did do differently was press my neck binding/tie piece before attaching it.  I found it easier to have everything pressed and folded in before starting to attach it instead of trying to fold it under once half sewn, as the directions suggested.   Plus, I top-stitched all my seams so that the very light cotton lawn doesn't get pulled at the seams, and I made the sleeves longer.

 

 

This is a lovely top when finished.  We are having a really hot summer here in Australia and I wanted some long sleeve shirts for when I am out helping my husband on our farm, this one is so cool to wear and just perfect.  I used a very light cotton lawn fabric so it has a lovely light drape to it.  I cut my fabric out in a size 12 according to my bust measurement, which fell just between size 10 & 12.  I have found now that I should have used the next size up.  The only reason for this is that I have quite strong straight shoulders, and I do often have to go up a size when purchasing shirts and dresses that are fitted across my top half, or I feel it pull across my back.  This is the case for this top when I try it on now.  Next time I will be measuring across my upper back/shoulder area and comparing that to the back yoke before cutting out.   I will still be wearing it though as it is a flattering top and feels lovely to wear.

 

 

I really love this pattern!  I have never made a shirt before and thought it would be much harder than it actually was.  I will definitely be making this pattern again, as said above, but next time I will take more care with the back yoke size for myself.  I would also like to try mixing it up a little more on the back piece, using gathers instead of pleats or even downsizing the lower back piece so that it has a straight back. I would also like to have a go at making a short sleeve version, too.  I would recommend this pattern to others as I enjoyed making it and will certainly enjoy wearing it.  I will have to go shopping and buy some more light summer fabric.  I can see many varieties of this being a staple in my wardrobe.  

 

 

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Doesn't that blue look fabulous on her?  Pair this top with a great pair of skinny jeans, an oversized bag, and some cute boots... insta-amazing outfit!  I always wear my long-sleeve button up shirts with my sleeves slightly rolled up, so I thought it was a nice touch that she made the sleeves a bit longer so she could roll them up.  I think this would look so awesome in a polka-dotted voile.  

 

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Pair it Up

These feminine finds are sure to turn heads when paired with the Roxanne!

 

 

This over-sized bag is just as useful as it is fashion-forward!  The Market Bag from Artsy-Crafty Babe can be used for everyday wear or more utilitarian purposes such as a beach bag, laundry bag, or overnight bag.  The dimensions are 23" wide x 17" tall x 6" deep.  Sew it up in your favorite bold print and make a statement!

 

 

The Spring Blooms Sun Hat from Angel Lea Designs is so sophisticated and charming, we can't get enough!  This darling sun hat is completely reversible and can be made in sizes XS- XXL.  Protect your skin from the sun while rockin' this great look!

 

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Make sure you head to the website to download your copy of the Roxanne top for 25% off during the month of February!  If you've got some photos of this top sewn up, we'd love to see them!  Send us an email and share them with us! 

 

Plus, we have a really fun new feature on the blog where we get to know some interesting things about the designers at Fairytale Frocks & Lollipops!  Be on the look out for a new one soon!

 

 

Go sew something magical!!!

 

Sew and Tell with the Meghan Peasant Dress

 

Hope everyone is having a great Friday!!  I just can't help but smile when I know the weekend is so close  :)  Today's Sew and Tell Review is on the Meghan Peasant Dress by Sis Boom.  Some of you may make clothing for yourself, but the majority of you probably only sew for your children or grandchildren, right?  I'm here today to convince you that you need to take a break from those super cute kid's clothes and make something for yourself!!  You deserve it!!  Why should the kids get all the fun stuff?  Designing and sewing your own clothing can be a lot of fun and really rewarding if you have the right guidance, and you will definitely get that from a Sis Boom pattern.  You'll be able to choose your own fabrics and adjust for a perfect fit... can't do that with store-bought clothing!

 

The Meghan Peasant Dress is a great "gateway" pattern if you've shied away from sewing adult clothing previously.  Sis Boom patterns are very detailed and well-explained.  And, obviously, oh so cute!  We have a beautiful collection of Sis Boom patterns on the website for you to drool over  ;)  This pattern comes in a wide range of sizes from  Misses 0 - 18 & Womens 1X- -3X, has multiple sleeve lengths, and allows for several neckline options.  Since this is a peasant-style dress, you only need to know how to insert elastic... no zippers, darts, or anything else scary with this one! 

 

 

Jeanine T. from The Crafting Fiend reviewed the Meghan Peasant Dress for us for us this week, and here's what she had to say about it. 

 

 

Hello!  My name is Jen.  I started sewing 2 years ago after I had my first daughter.  I taught myself to sew using free patterns and tutorials I found on the internet because I needed a creative outlet now that my usual pastime (oil on canvas painting) was no longer time-feasible due to a new baby.  I would rate myself as an intermediate sewist.

For my review, I sewed the Meghan Peasant Dress, which is a Sis Boom pattern.  I don’t know if you have ever used a Sis Boom pattern before, but if not let me tell you what a treat their pattern pieces are!  She separates the pieces by size, so you follow the print guide and only print the pieces you actually need!  When it comes to taping them together – they line up beautifully.  Seriously, if pattern making were considered an art form, she would get an award.  The fabric I used is one of a kind and was a gift from my adoptive mother-in-law who brought it back from Africa.

 I made myself a size small since I am just teetering on the edge of being an extra small and a small.  In the pattern she says that if you are between sizes, going up or down a size won’t make a lot of difference, and I would agree with this.  I am very happy with my choice to make the small.  She gives a chart with various heights and drawings of legs so you can pick where you want the hemline to fall on your own leg, and it shows the measurement needed to cut.  I cut my skirt at a 23 inch length.  It is great for getting just the length you want!  

I found the directions very easy to follow.  She is very clear in her directions, provides great pictures to show what to do, and is thankfully not very wordy so you can get right to business.  (Which is what I like.  With having a toddler and a baby, a straightforward pattern is much appreciated!)

I would say my complete time to cut and sew was about 3 hours.   I tend to sew a little here and a little there as the kids allow, but I felt that this sewed up very quickly.  I had a new dress by bedtime the same day I started cutting the fabric, so it’s an easy and fast sew for sure.  I would say this pattern is great for beginning sewists.

I also want to note that I am still breastfeeding my 5 month old.   This dress easily allows me to do so (yay!!!), and my husband even commented positively on this dress!  I cut out the neckline with the lowest scoop option, but if I were making this for a pregnant self (I think this would be a great pattern for 1^st half pregnancy sewing) I would probably use the second option for the neckline.

The only adjustment I made on the pattern was to make the cap sleeves shorter by about an inch.  I just preferred it this way.  I had them pattern length before, but felt a little awkward with them being that extra inch.  My friends all said it looked great that length, but I am a bit of a perfectionist.

I think this dress is very versatile as it looks cute with tights and a cardi or by itself.  Since I live in Winterland (aka Canada) versatility is a VERY welcome quality in a pattern!

I think Jeanine gets bonus points for photographing herself in the snow!  She even took her gloves and cardi off.  I won't go outside if it's lower than 60 degrees unless I have to walk to the car.  Looking at her is making me shiver, haha!  And how about this cool fabric from Africa?  I'm digging it! 

 

If you need something to keep you warm in your Meghan Peasant Dress until spring settles in, take a look at The Ruffled Collared Cape for Women by Seamingly Smitten.  Jenny Hall has some really great women's patterns on the website.  You can make the Ruffled Collared Cape in sizes XS-XL (0-18).  This is a quick project and gives you stunning results!  I've been so drawn to this since the first time I saw it.  I'm sure it has nothing to do with the houndstooth print ;)  Roll Tide!  For all you Bama fans, this would be really great to wear on those chilly game days (hint, hint).  You could even dress the cape up with a nice fabric and perhaps a stylish brooch and wear it for more formal occasions.  Very versatile and oh-so-chic!

 

 

 Every woman needs a great purse, and this little clutch is sure to get a lot of attention!  Say hello to the Henrietta by Molly Blossom Designs.  I love that you can mix and match fabrics to create a colorful one-of-a-kind design.  And that bow is just darling!  Don't have a need for a clutch?  The Henrietta also makes a great coupon keeper or cosmetics bag.  A beautiful design! 

 

Now, go get your copy of the Meghan Peasant Dress for 25% off!  As always, this pattern will be on sale until the next Sew and Tell Review is posted.  If you are looking for other adult-sized patterns, we have a whole section on the website full of great designs for you to enjoy!  Go take a look!  When you finish your creations, share a picture with us on our Facebook page.  We would LOVE to see them!

Go sew something magical!