Packing for a trip always points out the flaws in your wardrobe, don’t you think? A planned visit to the already muggy east coast made me realize – I have very few easy-to- wear, easy-to-pack tops that are humidity friendly.
Enter Simplicity 8601 – – An ‘easy-to-sew’ top with lots of variations.
Version 1; Rayon
This lovely batik rayon was purchased last Spring (Millendstore). I used some of it for this dress last spring. This rayon has a lovely, soft drape, so even though I was short a quarter of a yard, I worked hard to squeeze this 3/4 sleeve top from it. I was really lucky it worked because the drape of rayon is so perfect for this style!
One thing to note about this pattern – – It has a seam down the front, a necessity because of the tie at the waist. Stripes, plaids etc need to be positioned strategically. Even though this rayon has a polka dot print, it’s a batik with a noticeable pattern to it so I had to do some strategic matching around that front seam.
I loved this top right away! Encouraged by the immediate gratification this pattern offered, I pressed on and sewed a few more…..
Version two: Medium weight cotton
This is View A with bell sleeves, the perfect shape for layering under sweaters. I was a bit concerned that the stiffness of this Cotton and Steel print would be a bit much for the waist tie…but it worked! Not only is this medium weight cotton great in humid weather, it supports the shape of these sleeves.
Version 3; Cotton Double Gauze
When the weather is a bit sticky, double gauze always makes me feel great, so I just had to use a cotton gauze remnant in my stash for version B. I am so glad I did! There’s a reason people use double gauze for baby blankets – it’s so soft. Wearing this top is like wearing pajamas, which makes me wonder…..Why don’t I make everything out of double gauze?
I’m pleased with all three versions so Simplicity 8601 so it gets a big thumbs up from me. I have plans to make View D as well (flutter sleeves) and who knows what else I might whip up. From start to finish each version of this top took only two hours to sew – – a perfect saturday or evening project. The instructions are great and the fabric options that work with this pattern are endless. I have some linen I will use for a flutter sleeve version. I will likely make a flannel version in the fall.
I was pleased to see several similar RTW tops at Anthropologie last week with a waist tie, so give this look a try. What version do you like best? Have you ever made a top from double gauze?
Happy sewing and thanks for stopping by!
I love all three – but the double gauze is my favourite! Great print and the colours really suit you.
Thanks, Chris! With this make, I think double gauze moved to the front position with linen in my line up of favorite fabrics.
I like all of them, but I think the version with the tie sleeves in rayon is my favorite. Although if I made it, I am sure I would drag those sleeve ties into everything, but I love the look!
Ha – yes sleeve ties do have a way of slipping into things, don’t they? They’re surprisingly easy to sew though! I do love the look too!
All three are really cute!
Thanks, Sue!!
These are so cute! I’ll take the middle blue one please! I love the shape of its sleeves. Nicely done!
Thanks Linda! Of course, you’d want the blue one….:)
I love all three too. You are certainly east coast vacation ready. Enjoy!
Thanks, Faye!
Yep, all three look excellent on you 🙂 It was very interesting to see how the pattern worked in the three different fabrics, thanks for that.
Thanks! It’s always fun to see how fabric choices can change the look of the pattern, glad you like it!
I love all your tops too! I remember when I started sewing in the early ’70’s Simplicity was always my favourite pattern company and they seem to lately going to through a Renaissance with some really fashion forward styles, great instructions and some interesting designers joining as well. This is a winner for sure!! I’m tempted to buy it but honestly if you saw my pattern collection you’d roll your eyes in horror at the thought 🙂
Ha!! Simplicity patterns was my go-to years ago, and I feel like they’re back! In my opinion, This is a good one, no matter how large your pattern collection.:)
These are great! I like the way you make several differing versions of a pattern straightaway. My favorite is the double gauze short sleeved one. I have never sewn with double gauze, but it’s on my list of things I want to try.
Thank-you! Double gauze is one of my new favorites to wear! BTW, I finished seams with my serger to keep it from unraveling, although this double gauze is woven pretty tightly. I hope you like it too!