I'd spent a couple of years working up the courage to make this ruffle sleeve top by In the Folds for Peppermint Magazine. I had even bought the eyelet fabric and sat on it for a good while. I finally tackled this December 2020 over the holidays and I was happy with the result!
(See more photos at the end of the post.)
Size / View:
I made a size C at the bust, graded down to a size B in the hips. I first cut a size B and did a muslin and decided I needed the ease that came with a size C for the high bust area to more easily slip the top on and off.
My measurements are:
- Bust: 34.5"
- High Bust: 32.5"
- Waist: 29"
- Hip: 37.5"
- Height: 5' 0"
Fabric:
Scalloped edge eyelet (outside) and cotton solid (lining) from Joann.
Adjustments / Construction:
- The eyelet fabric already had a scalloped edge that I used for the bottom hem and the sleeve hems, so I eliminated the seam allowance for those places.
- For the ruffle sleeve, I also shortened the length by an extra 0.5".
- I did a fully lined solid layer since I used eyelet fabric for the outer layer. I wasn't sure how to do this at first and In the Folds clarified how - use the front and back pieces to cut out the lining layers. I also shortened the lining by another 0.5" or 0.75".
Likes:
- No exposed seams
- I'm pleased that I'm comfortable enough with my skill level to make the adjustments I did!
Next Time:
- I may try to grade the hips to an even smaller size for a closer fit, assuming it doesn't impact my ability to slip the top over my head. One other option I may try once I'm more comfortable with zippers is installing a zipper down the side. I have a ready-to-wear top that has something like this and it helps with a closer fit.
- If I made this again, I most likely would not use the cropped lining that comes with the pattern and instead do a fully lined layer still.