{MADE} Beatrix Top by Made by Rae

 

What do you get when you decide to combine your two fabrics from your back to basics post into one garment — absolute fabulousness is what you get!  I have had this pattern for about a year now, and have been putting it off because…  buttons!  I mean, its a very simple top (very business in the front, party in the back – if you know what I mean) — and yet, I agonized over how much time I might invest in making it and then screw up the buttons (and then go ugly cry in a corner).  But hey, I went to battle with these buttons and would say I emerged somewhat unscathed!  And I see more in my future…

Pattern Description

 

The Beatrix (link here) was released back in 2015 – which is just about when I started sewing.  I was certainly not up to sewing my own garments at that point and was JUST starting to dabble in making garments for myself.  I agonized over this purchase because the pattern is $16 – and I have been spoiled with PDF patterns with new release pricing thats closer to $7.  I’m so glad I got over it and just purchased it because the silhouette is perfect, the instructions give you great inside finishes (without the use of a serger), and it comes with the FBA piece (which was more helpful when I needed to do those – see my pattern adjustments for my current sizing). I did view A with the longer sleeve with the contrast button band from view B (see this link for the hack instructions).

From the Website:

Beatrix is a button-back pullover top with a simple silhouette that is both comfortable and flattering. With two views that offer different sleeve lengths, button placket options, and a shirttail or banded hem, this is a truly versatile pattern for woven fabrics. Included are six sizes (XS-XXL) with two different front bodice pieces to fit either A/B or C/D cup sizes. This modern wardrobe basic is sure to become a new favorite!

This sewing pattern eBook (PDF) includes:

• six women’s sizes from XS to XXL
• thorough step-by-step instructions with diagrams, full-color photographs, and plenty of tips and hints
• a special two-page “Seam Finishes Appendix” with instructions for my favorite seam finishes
• a printable instruction summary
• full-sized pattern pieces (including seam allowances) in both print-at-home and copy shop formats.

Mixing Fabrics and Weights – Whoops

The fabric I used for the button placket is a stretch linen and the black/white print is a rayon challis.  As you can imagine – the linen is a very sturdy fabric, which can take a ton of hard pressing (making it good for a project like this), but also making it compete with the challis (which I would call lightweight and not very sturdy).

What I SHOULD have done, versus what I did

First – I LOVE this pattern – and any issues I point out in this case are user error.  I SHOULD have done a second muslin (test garment) since my body has changed tremendously in the last year…  I muslined the C/D cup and was lazy and continued with that pattern piece when really I think the smaller piece would have been perfect (and given me slightly less ease.

Next, the interfacing that I used for the button placket made it too stiff… I attempted to wear this top tucked in – but it sticks out in the worst way.  It’s fine because I love the hemline and can always half tuck the front – but it is unfortunate that I cannot get maximum versatility out of it.

All in – a wonderful make, and great addition to any wardrobe!  I don’t know if you can tell yet, but I have been keeping within a certain color scheme, to build out a full wardrobe capsule – can’t wait to share!

What are you all sewing up right now?