The O's-Zone Layer

Here's a 1970's pattern for a simple knit wrap dress or top. I made the knit top, but without the wrap option. I was conducting an experiment or "sew-periment" in making a non-wrap knit top from a wrap top/dress pattern.  I liked the side shaping and the unique center back shaping and wanted to discover how these details work with my figure before committing myself to the "wrap" style of this pattern.

Size 14, bust 36.  I used a polyester knit for my top.

I transformed the left and right bodice into one front piece, thus omitting the crossover and wrap detail.


From what I glanced, the directions seemed fine for the wrap top or dress. I did not really use them since I was creating something else. I retraced the front and back pieces onto tissue paper and made my usual adjustments.



I purchased this pattern from ebay due to its no-frills wrap style and that it would seem simple to sew. With the front left, front right, back, attached tie and sleeves to deal with, (top is cut from the pieces with length at the specified cutting lines), and a reliable method to finish the neckline, there should be little or no problem in putting this dress together. The only slight dislike is the long bell sleeves.





My  modifications:

*Transferred my usual adjustments to the pattern that I traced onto tissue paper (1" petite adjustment between the bust and hips, shorten the upper back by 3/4", and add 1/4" to the side seams)

* I cut the front as one piece along the center front of the bodice.

* I cut out a scoop neckline, instead of leaving it as a "v" shaped neckline.

*Borrowed the long sleeve piece from my Simplicity 6082

I plan to sew the wrap dress version of this pattern.

Based on the results of this "sew-periment" of creating a non-wrap top from a wrap dress/top pattern, I am satisfied with the top and would be more so with a few more changes. Next time, I would add another 2" to the length, raise the neckline an additional 1/2", and to take in further the upper side seams to reduce some bagginess under the arms and alongside the bust.  It would have made sense to account for this since I was used a pattern piece originally designed for a "wrap" style, silly me....

I have enjoyed the freedom of combining certain style elements from different patterns. I may get some pleasant and not-so-pleasant surprises from the results. After taking time to do these "sew-periments", I hope to achieve my goal of creating a TNT pattern.

Wrapped in a hug:

We wish you a Happy Mother's Day!