PATTERN REVIEW: Julia Wrap Top in Midweight Bleached Linen
I am, admittedly, a creature of habit. Once I discover a style that works for me, I just add more of it to my wardrobe. This is exactly what happened when I discovered the beauty of a wrap top! For me, nothing beats the wrap top when it comes to comfort and ease. It just so feminine and flattering on any body-type as it hugs your curves in all the right places.
That is why I was very excited to make the JULIA Wrap Top Pattern the minute I laid my eyes on it. It is an original Fabrics store design that offers six styles in one pattern: a tiered maxi skirt with two different lengths and color options and a wrap top with three sleeve lengths. It’s no surprise that I chose to sew the top. And I’m very glad that I did! I’m so pleased with how it turned out that I’m sure that it will be worn, loved and cherished, long into the future.
The pattern offers three beautiful variations of the same top: with a cuffed ¾ sleeve, with short sleeves and sleeveless. I wanted something to transition from spring into summer, so I picked the short-sleeved version. The top itself is pretty relaxed and sits at your natural waist. Due to front and back gathered details and the elasticated back waist, it has a very flattering shape and clever construction. Being a patternmaker myself, I know how tricky it can be to draft a wrap pattern that hugs your neckline just right, without gaping and too much fullness. With Julia top I wouldn’t change a thing!
I cut a straight size 6 and didn’t make any adjustments to the pattern. It was pretty simple to make and the sewing instructions were very excellent and easy to follow. I would definitively recommend this pattern to advance beginners and beyond.
Since I was looking for a casual summery top, I decided to make mine in white softened linen. I opted for my favorite Fabrics store linen – FS BLEACHED Signature Finish Mediumweight linen. It is slightly off-white and has the softest texture as a result of a special “hot wash” process that makes it look so effortless and chic. Neither sheer or heavy, it was just the right fabric for this project.
If like me you are a wrap style lover, I would definitively recommend giving this pattern a go. I personally can’t wait to make more!
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