Pattern Review - New Look 6521 Top

Since I finished Barb's Cosmopolitan Dress early today, and since I had a little time on my hands, I decided to dig into some of the silk jersey I bought at Rosen & Chadick when I was there with Gigi and Phyllis in January. Because it was so dear, I only bought 1 1/2 yards of it, so I cast about in my pattern stash to see what kind of sleeveless or short sleeved pattern I had lurking about. This one presented itself to me, and it reminded me of a favorite Nanette Lepore top I bought about 5 years ago and which I still wear. So, let's pull it out and have at it!

Description: Misses sleeveless top with tie detail at shoulders, wrap top, capris and pants. All sizes (8-18) are included.

What did you like/dislike about the pattern? I liked the lines of the top. As I said, it's reminiscent of one I paid a lot of money for at Wish on Charles Street several years back. It's a very easy pattern - 3 pieces (front/back/neckline). This is not a dislike, but it is worth noting that the top is lower cut than it appears from the line drawings.

Fabric used: Silk jersey print that I bought at Rosen & Chadick in New York City.

Any alterations? I did a FBA. I also inserted the neckband using my serger, and I think the differential feed was a little off, because it stretched out a bit as you can see. I think I will be able to fix it, and on me it's not as noticeable as it is on my dummy Sharona. One other thing I did differently was with the shoulder gathers. The instructions have you use lengths of store-bought ribbon. Instead, I opted to do what Nanette Lepore did and I made narrow bias tubes of silk jersey instead. I think it looks better that way.

How were the instructions? Easy-peasy. Really, they are quite clear, and very beginner friendly.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it? Yes to both. I have this same print in pinks, and I think I'll make it up using this pattern.

Conclusion: A real winner! Oh yes, here's the top:


Happy sewing!