Pattern Review: The Bruna Shirt in Crisp Cotton

Bruna shirt made with lightweight Percale Cotton

I love a good button down. I know this isn’t a revolutionary statement by any means, but there’s a reason it’s become a wardrobe staple in so many people’s closets. They have the innate ability to be a closet chameleon, transitioning from office wear to casual chic, and they are a piece I return to again and again when I want to feel confident and comfortable. I’ve made a bevy of button downs during my time sewing, and I’ve come to appreciate the meticulous attention to detail needed to navigate their construction. A well-made collar stand is one of the great joys of sewing for me. 

Bruna shirt made with lightweight Percale Cotton

I’ve used Fabrics-Store patterns since I first started making my own clothing, and I’ve always been drawn to the variety of button downs they offer. Playing with design details and style lines,  their patterns explore creative iterations to a traditional garment. One of their newer patterns, the Bruna pattern collection, is a feminine twist to the traditional popover, and includes both shirt and dress views with three sleeve options.

I decided to make View B in size 2 based on recommended body measurements, swapping out the ¾ sleeves with View A’s short-sleeved cuffed option. I like how it adds an interesting styling detail to an otherwise simple profile from the back. I struggled a bit to get the inside point on the cuff to sit cleanly and just kept pressing throughout the construction process to minimize the fabric pulling. To mitigate this next time, I think it would help to topstitch the cuff edge before attaching to the sleeve. 

Bruna shirt made with lightweight Percale Cotton

I also removed the bust dart completely, referencing the Helen’s Closet tutorial I usually use (this is a common modification for me). Even with the darts removed, the body of the button-up has a roomy swing to it that sets it apart. The bell shape of the hem is a nice feminine nod without feeling overwhelmingly so, and the sleeve options can be mixed and matched with different views. A sleeveless version of View C is already on my horizon!

This was not my first time working with Fabrics-Store’s cotton, again it was pleasantly easy to press and the grainline was nice and straight. The crisp striped cotton felt like a classic and easy combination with the Bruna pattern.

Bruna shirt made with lightweight Percale Cotton

I know this shirt will get a lot of wear in my wardrobe. In trying to be mindful about what I make, it’s important to me that I make garments that can be worn throughout seasons and occasions. The Bruna is a great piece to layer under a sleeveless dress or loose knitted sweater or vest, but looks just as good with a simple pair of blue jean shorts.  With all of its potential for different wardrobe combinations, I think it’ll fit right in.