Papercut Patterns Flutter Blouse

I don't know why it has taken me so long to share this blouse, because it has been my most worn handmade item of clothing this year. This was my second time making this pattern, so it was a quick and easy project that I finished it early in the year. The pattern is the Flutter Blouse and Tunic from Papercut Patterns.
 

Here I am with my hands on my hips again. When I shared my Charlotte Kan tie front dress on Facebook last week I joked that I always seem to have my hands on my hips. A friend responded with this fact: Standing like a superhero changes our cortisol levels, and generally configures our brains to cope well in stressful situations. I don't think I stand around like this often in real life (rather just don't know what to do with my hands when I pose for photos) but perhaps I should. Anyways, this pose, in this case, shows off how badass these flutter sleeves are, dontcha think?!



This pattern works really well in a drapey fabric like Rayon Challis, which is what I used here. I found this at LA Finch fabrics last fall, but here it is in another color way. My first version of this top was in a hand dyed Silk Dupoini and I think a more structured fabric like that provides a much different fit. It is equally as lovely but definitely a different look.



I just adore the low V and split hem on the back. I feel just a little dressed up, but not overly so, wearing this top. It is comfy and easy to wear while still being interesting and flattering.
 

I made the XS but altered the pattern by removing some of the gaping at the back neckline and hemline. The sleeves on this version are slightly longer than the short sleeve option. I also added 5/8" seam allowances and French seamed the interior. I sewed the center back seam down lower so that the split hits right below my waistline.

I have yet to make the tunic version of this pattern or the longer sleeved version but will be doing both at some point. I highly recommend this pattern, it is really fun to sew and wear. Between the dropped flutter sleeves, the deep V and split hem this pattern has a ton of though put into it.

Charlotte Kan Tie Dress

I had my eye on the Charlotte Kan Tie Dress pattern for quite a while but kept talking myself out of purchasing the pattern. I was telling myself that it was so simple and I could draft it myself. Well, I needed a quick project and finally talked myself into the purchase. I was so glad I did. Despite its simplicity, this is a very thoughtfully drafted pattern. The curve of the hips, the curved hem in the front and the angled tie panels were all well designed, and much better than my rectangular version would have been.
 

My measurements on this pattern landed me squarely in the xs, but I decided to go with a small for more ease. I figured I could always take it up if it was too sack like. The pattern is pretty easy to fit with the tie panels creating a somewhat more defined waist, you can opt to tie them looser or tighter than I did. Overall I think the fit is right for me.
 

I used a tencel chambray from Joann that I love. I am hoping to find more of this fabric but I may be out of luck. It does wrinkle easily, but so do all of my favorite fibers so I am pretty used to that. I left off the pocket and sleeve cuffs, wanting a bit more dressy and streamlined version.
 

You can see how the front hemline curves up here.


I am really happy with this make. I needed a win after a couple of frustrating projects. This dress is comfortable, easy to wear, and I think pretty flattering. I definitely recommend this pattern. I can see making another version of this dress, as well as a kimono sleeve top and a simple tunic minus the tie panels. I think this pattern will be put to good use.

Besides sewing I have been working in the backyard gardens quite a bit. They are in full bloom and are really happy right now. We went down to my parents house in the Hill Country a couple of weekends ago and somehow an awesome vintage camper fell in our laps. You can see it over on my Instagram. It will be quite a project to fix and renovate but gives us all the more reason to visit my parents in the beautiful Texas Hill Country! We are also getting ready for a beach trip to Tulum with a group of friends this summer. I am getting anxious to sew swimsuits for the trip and I think the Sophie Swimsuit Pattern is at the top of my list.