I love this top! It has instantly become my favourite. This is the newly released Miss Isabella by 1 Puddle Lane, I was lucky enough to be able to be involved in the testing of this pattern.
The Pattern
Straight into it: this is a loose fitting top, or tunic, or dress – you decide! All three length variants have an assymetrical hem, which is just so flattering, on any shape or size. I stitched up the top length, which hits my high hip on the short side, and has a side split on the long side.
The neckline is a simply elegant round neckline with a bound edge. The binding on my version is visible, but it can also be hidden, and I did cut binding from the main fabric, but you could also use pre-made bias binding – its totally up to you!
The best part about this pattern is the gorgeous sleeves, it comes with 3 variations:
– elegantly sleeveless
– fancy frill sleeve
– long sleeve (with sexy split)
I made up the frill sleeve. This is sleeve is about elbow length, with a flared cuff. The length is very practical, and yet feels so glamorous to wear. The sleeves have a tiny, gathered puff at the shoulder, which provides just a little definition for this otherwise, free flowing piece.
The pattern has instructions for adjusting the length, and not all patterns have that these days. This, combined with the detailed instructions provided by Ann, makes it very easy to fit this exactly as you like it.
As I mentioned earlier, there are three lengths provided with the pattern:
– top
– tunic
– dress
I made up the top version (which works perfectly with my Luna Pants). There are different variations on the side splits to suit the different styles.
The back is cut in two pieces, whilst the front is a single piece. This allows for precise pattern placement – I made absolutely sure to get this pattern centred just right. Otherwise, this would have really bugged me if the medium-sized and very regularly placed pattern was even just a little off-centre at the front.
The pattern comes in a great range of sizes too, 6-20AU/2-16US and the new Curvaceous Goddess Series in sizes 20-28AU/16-24US.
The Fabric
Speaking of the fabric, this pattern is designed for use with a woven fabric. This top is made up in a printed crinkle rayon from Spotlight. Its the kind of fabric that shrinks up when wet, but then stretches out again as its worn, it was quite fiddly to cut. I struggled to make sure that I cut it evenly after pre-washing. It was quite easy to sew though, it didn’t slip around too much.
The Verdict
I love this top, these photos were taken on a very hot day. It was my youngest daughter, Veronica’s, fourth birthday party (watch out in the next few days for a post about the birthday dress that I made for her – it has smocking, buttons, lace…and lots of pink!). I was comfortable in the heat all day, and didn’t feel wilted or crumpled, I still felt well-dressed.
I didn’t need to make any modifications to this pattern – no fba, no adjustment for long body or narrow shoulders. It is a great pattern on its own.
Where to Get it?
You can purchase the Miss Isabella from 1 Puddle Lane. There is a 20% discount code available in the sewing group – 1PL – Sewing and Pattern Studio. You will be able to see lots of other tester versions in the group too, and like me, you will probably be really inspired!
Thanks for reading!
