Pattern Review: All in a bunch Top

Simplicity 2181

Here is one of my "everyday" tops that I talked about in my last post. That is- tops that I can pair with jeans and still look a little more put together than just jeans and a t-shirt.

This top was quick and easy to make. I used a knit that I found at Joann Fabrics. It's light and drapey, very much like an ITY knit. I can't remember exactly how much I spent but it was less than $15. The print is an abstract blue, purple and pink combo.

I like how this top turned out. The sleeve and body of the top are all one piece. I actually do prefer v-necks in my tops, I think they are more flattering. This top is a low v-neck, but with all of the fabric bunched together it doesn't gape or feel immodest.



My one gripe is how Simplicity has you construct the front v-neck. This will probably make more sense if you have sewn it or are going to. The front of the top has a center seam. The instructions have you stop sewing several inches below where the v-neck ends, leaving a slit about four-five inches open below the small band that holds all of the bunched up fabric together in the center. At first, I didn't think this was a big deal because with all of the bunched up fabric, you would think that the "slit" would stay closed. This was not the case. When I wore this the first time, I looked down at one point and noticed that the slit was open, revealing my tummy underneath. Of course I was in public too! So I promptly sewed the remaining center seam up to the bottom of the v-neck. This did not impact the finished look of the garment and made it much more easier to wear. I'm not quite sure why the instructions have you leave the slit.

Overall, this is a keeper. I think I would like to make it once more in a solid knit. The print distracts from the interesting style of the top.

Paired with the first garment that I posted to this blog- my denim pencil skirt! It's a little more snug than when I first made it but I'm just glad I can get it zipped up... LOL!

Stay tuned for a big project that I have planned. I'll be adding another tab up on top for it. I've been inspired by Lori and her Wardrobe Sewalong on her blog Girls in the Garden. More to come!

~Jenny