This is the latest pattern from Peppermint Magazine in collaboration with their sewing partner Spoonflower. The pattern is a romantic, ruffle blouse. It can be worn on or off the shoulder. We used to call this a “peasant blouse” in the 80s but I’m not sure if that term is still used. There’s no buttonholes or zips. It’s a pull over your head blouse with the elastic all around the top of the top. The pattern is offered with a subscription to the magazine or downloadable from the website with a pay-what-you-can option.
The pattern is drafted for woven fabric. I decided to use two remnant pieces from my stash and combined a broderie anglaise with a cotton slub which were both in white. I was pretty happy with the outcome but there is quite a lot of volume in the bodice. In fact, I was quite worried when I was making the top that I had printed the wrong size. Next time, I would choose an even thinner and drapier fabric like rayon, viscose or georgette.
My measurements of 38-inch bust, 33-inch waist and 40-inch hip, fitted the size F. The most important measurement is the bust measurement as there is a lot of ease with the waist size and the hip measurement isn’t really relevant. I increased the elastic length from 73.4cm to 100cm because I found that the original length would not allow me to wear the blouse off the shoulder. This is all included in the pattern instructions.
So, did I need to worry about the fit of the blouse? Not really! Once the elastic goes in, the blouse magically shrinks to the right size. As a compulsive overthinker, I find it difficult to trust the process. Sewing has been good for me and has taught me to be better at having a go. I also need to take more breaks in my sewing. I think I reached that stage of the elastic casing, and the illustrations were not making any sense to me. It was a good place to stop and everything made perfect sense when I returned to it the next day.
I’m really happy with how it’s turned out. I had a peasant blouse when I was in Grade 6. I wore that blouse everywhere. Now I get to recreate it with this pattern! It’s a great pattern for a beginner and the instructions are good to follow. I’ve styled with my Vanessa Hansen Carrie Skirt and the ELOH patterns Sorrento Shorts. It’s an easy piece to style. I wonder if I could hack it into a playsuit?
This is my official last pattern for 2024! I am looking forward to some down time with family. I’m excited to make some plans for 2025 but I’ll share those in a separate blog post. Thanks so much if you’ve been following my sewing journey.
Thanks for reading and happy sewing!
X Em
Em Sew Happy Blog 