Pattern Review: Simplicity 2865 Henley Tank

It's a scorcher today... I think it got up to 95 degrees! And it feels almost as hot inside as it does outside. This top would have been perfect for the sweltering heat. This one is almost a wadder... I will wear it as a p.j. top so it's not quite hopeless.



Pattern Description: Misses' knit dress, mini dress or top. I made the top.

Pattern Sizing: Sizes 4-20 are available. I cut a 16.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Pretty much.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, the instructions were fine. It's actually a fast and easy top to make.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I think what drew me to this pattern was the faux henley style. It's simply just a rectangle shaped piece sewn over the center front with buttons sewn on top. I think it's a cute touch. I also like the back- it's almost a racer back which is also very cute.

Dislike- do not like the side panels at all. In the pattern photo, it looks like this panel is almost hidden, like it folds inward. Well, on these shapely hips they do not. They look like chicken wings and they accentuate instead of flatter one's curves. I know... it's probably not THAT bad, but I don't like it!

Fabric Used: This bums me out because I really like the fabric. It's a clearance bin find at Joann's. I scooped up the last of the bolt for like $2.00 a yard. It's a knit in pink and gray stripes with metallic thread running through it... so cute! Unfortunately, I probably won't wear this one for anything other than a pajama top.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: The only alteration I made was to go down one size than recommended.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I really like the shape of this top other than the chicken wings. So I will make this one again, but do away with the side inserts. If you are pretty slender, give it a try with the side inserts, they may look more flowey than they do on me.

Conclusion: Love the henley and racer back style. Hate the muffin top holders!




~Jenny