Simplicity 1849 to the Max

Hellllo!...

I'm going to jump right into this post before I become seduced by sleepitis.   Just ate and trying to stay upright till my food digest... my eating life.

Call me a recidivist, I am notorious for repeatedly sewing up the same pattern.  When a pattern yields a silhouette that is flattering and works well with a variety of my existing garments, I become a repeat offender.

Simplicity 1849 is that pattern that has me strung out and running plum fool.

Simplicity 1849 and I met for the first time back in 2012 and instantly fell in love. Selected as my topper for Faye's Sewing Adventure's Top Sew-Along. 

After a few years with this pattern, I can work it up in under 2 hours.  I remember when I first made it and after looking at the instructions with it calling for front/back facings, I was like... no we will not be going that route.  Thereby using less fabric and taking less time which I believe averaged to 3-4 hours per top back then.

One thing that would've eaten up more fabric than I likely had or didn't want to waste was the front facing, which was almost a full facing.  Totally did not need the additional layer.  

When it comes to certain garments, I try to be mindful of what will work for my shape and work for the long haul.  I'm from the ol' school of be wise when building a wardrobe, select pieces that will yield timelessness.

Don't get me wrong, every now and again, I will add a trendy piece to my wardrobe.  However, over the years, I find they fall short of longevity. So I keep on the straight and narrow path of simple and timeless.

Even modified it for a dress.  However, only to refashion it to a top a year or two later.

Seriously, this top is so flattering and would work well on many body shapes.  The twist detail, is a great way to minimize that problem area, well at least my problem area.

What I love about this top is that it works so well with various bottoms.  

One would think having created numerous version of  this for the last 5 years, I would get the overlay placed correctly on the right side.  This is one instance and maybe 2 others that I got it right....lol

Again, this pattern has come into play for 2018 and recently sewed up this grey one. The fabric is from Botani Trim, NYC  and also purchased a burgundy colorway too.  On this version instead of just serging the sleeve and folding to the inside, used leftover scraps and made knit cuffs.

Then, lo n behold, I was browsing Doctor T Designs and came upon this lil beauty... BurdaStyle Twist Top for workout wear.  I was like shutthefrontdoor.... no way.

My mind started churning and knew that I had to have that top.  Thought about it, slept on it and bam... Simplicity 1849 was the key.  All I needed to do was trace/resize/cut S1849 twist pattern piece and a garment was borne. 

Of course, it wasn't that easy, I resized/traced/cut that piece twice, before I got it right.

Used a ltwt. sweater knit that I scored at Save-a-thon a year ago.  I like to call it my galatic top.  It paired well with an old loft wrap skirt and was perfect for New York's mild temps today.

True to what I am... the recidivist... I am currently working up another burda inspired top in this hot chilli red printed knit.  It's a leftover from a dress I made.

If one hasn't noticed, I have come to love explosive colors and prints in my wardrobe. 

 Oh, before I forget, This pattern works up quick and easy as a scoop neck tee.  Just omit the overlays and presto, a quick tee.  I've made several from this pattern.

In closing, if you've thought about this style, but wasn't sure, I hope that I gave you a hint of what a punch this pattern packs.

Until then,

Have a Great Evening !