Since it's St. Patty's Day, I decided to give you a look at the shamrock cutout version. And here is our take on the Bella Sunshine Designs Holiday Cutout Top and Dress.
Sizes 12m - 10
Dress or Top Version
Instructions for Cutout or Applique
Includes 6 different shape printouts.
I did the dress version with both an applique and a cutout. The cutouts come in three sizes and the pattern includes recommendations on which to use for different size kids. I used the recommended medium sized cutout for Inara's, since she is a size 6 and I think the size is great on her.
I also added an applique to the skirt as well. I wasn't sure if it was *too* much, but Inara insisted it was needed, so I went for it. The pattern even includes instructions on how to applique the design on nicely.
I think what I love most about this pattern is that it is really easy to customize how you want. Not even just with fabrics and cutouts, but you can make the skirt pieces wider for more fullness and twirl, or you can even do the skirt in knit if you wanted. Or you can do what I did... FOE instead of the straps. I was going to do the tie straps in green to pull it all together, but with tie straps, she wouldn't be able to wear it to school, so I decided to try something a little different and make the bodice binding and straps out of FOE, so that they would stretch to go on and off, but wouldn't be able to be untied!
We also decided to stick a shirt on under it since she wanted to keep it on all day and its a bit chilly here still...
What I love about it: I love how it's so easy to customize... Have you seen some of the other bloggers on the tour (You can see the other two for today here!)?? There are all sorts of personal touches you can use with this pattern as a base.
What I would change: The bodice is attached to the skirt so that you enclose the waist seam (yay!), but the way it's attached requires you to top-stitch that seam where I'd rather whip-stitch the lining closed, and forego the top-stitching. But that's personal preference, isn't it?
Really though, the pattern is fantastic. The fit was perfect without any adjustments, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow. Here's an endorsement.. I actually tested the leggings and not the top, but bought the top when it was released because I really enjoyed the testing period and liked her writing style and the care she put into the fit and instructions. There is even a free pattern in her shop if you want to check her out before buying!
While you're grabbing this great pattern, you should definitely grab the Bow Tie Leggings from the Bella Sunshine Designs Shop as well... I made them for Inara to go with this top... and the bows can be done in knit or woven, so they match the dress!!
Don't laugh too much at her shoes... she got them from a consignment sale and wears them ALL over the place. As for the dress... we both love the look of it... feminine and well fitting, without being over the top. It's perfect for my fickle child!
The code: BLOGTOUR will get you 20% off both patterns here, so grab them while they are on sale... then make sure to check out all the other awesome bloggers for the week!
*disclaimer: this post includes affiliate links, but all opinions are my own!
everything about this outfit is ADORABLE - even the shoes! this is a great pattern to create a versatile & simple, yet so festive top or dress... thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteLooks wonderful! Can I ask where the owl fabric is from and called?
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