PATTERN REVIEW: Cameron Blouse in Bleached Linen
I have been on the hunt for a classic white shirt for years. Since starting a capsule wardrobe, or well-worn wardrobe as I like to call it, this closet staple has been on my project list. I finally found the style I was looking for in the Cameron Blouse pattern and recently spent a Saturday sewing it in a gorgeous FS BLEACHED Midweight Linen.
The simplicity of this design drew me in right away. It looks to be inspired by a timeless button-down white shirt with the pleated back yoke, but a paired down version with a few less components and a feminine touch. Instead of a collar, a tabbed neck-placket. There are no front pockets or button closure, but a slightly oversized, pullover style. The curved hem represents the classic shirt inspiration, while the slit gusset detail adds a unique touch. Those little details can go unnoticed at first glance, but they are often what make or break the functionality of a garment for me.
I chose to make the 3/4″ sleeve with cuffs for a very timeless look. It has been years since I have sewn a sleeve placket, so I quickly watched a Youtube video to refresh my memory. Anyone else a visual learner? Overall, this was an easy pattern to follow and because I enjoyed the design so much, I didn’t change a thing.
Most days, I will pair this flowy linen top with my favorite vintage Levi denim and a leather bag – my everyday uniform rooted in values of comfort and function. I can already picture myself wearing it lakeside over a swimsuit on a hot summer day. On a fancier occasion, an all black trouser, cotton tee, and low-heeled boots with this shirt layered over top will be my go-to outfit. I could even step out of my comfort zone and layer over a dress. A more concise way of saying it: this shirt is incredibly versatile.
Sewing FS patterns is a dream, and the Cameron blouse was no exception. Each pattern set ships to your doorstep printed on thick paper, saving time and effort during the cutting process. It comes with many garment options; the Cameron specifically has a dress, blouse, and top with multiple sleeve options. The patterns also include a well-written instruction booklet with beautiful finished product photos and detailed technical sketches. This speeds up the making process and feels like a treat compared to most modern sewing patterns that require a PDF download and printing at home. Both are great, depending on your project budget and the application, but I really appreciate the attention to detail that Fabrics-store puts into their sewing patterns. I know I will save these patterns for years and likely use them again and again.
As winter draws near and the sun starts setting at 4:00pm, I find joy in creating these linen pieces that remind me of sunny days of the past and the many adventures to come.
Happy sewing,
Morgann
2 Comments
Rebekah Lollar
Hi morgann! Loved the post, and planning to try the Cameron. Did you make the size based on your measurements?
Morgann Mccoy
Hey Rebekah! Yes, I did. I have sewn with Fabrics-store patterns before, so I know I’m usually a size 2. I did double check my shoulder and bust measurement, since this is my widest point and tends to be an area I need to adjust. I didn’t make any adjustments to the pattern though, since it has plenty of ease and is a loose fit! Hope you love it!!