Anna Allen Anthea Blouse and Dress

When I first tried this on after making it I wasn't sure if I liked it, as the sleeves are very large and I had used a very soft and drapey double gauze. However it has definitely grown on me - I really like that the shoulder seam is quite short so the big sleeves 'include' the shoulder tip.
I didn't make any modifications and found the instructions easy to follow. It's a cropped length but I have found it long enough to tuck in as well, so it is a versatile top.

I bought this pattern in early 2021 and it’s still my favourite top to make. Big sleeves are still in guys and this pattern is still really popular. I made it in railroad denim with a red stripe and in soft cotton fabrics as well, I hacked it into a top without the button closure, I have not made the dress version yet. Also it would be really easy to hack into *the* Ganni shirt by adding ties, straightening up the hem at whatever length you like and also adding a peplum.

The Anthea blouse was one of those patterns that everybody seemed to be making, and as I love a big sleeve, and a shirt, I decided to give it a try too. I had this fab spotty cotton fabric in my stash and decided they'd be the perfect pairing for a pretty 'extra' make.

I usually need an FBA, but there's lots of ease in this so I tried without, and think I just about got away with it! I made a straight size 12 based on my measurements and am happy with it, which is always nice.

The instructions on the pattern are very clear, and it comes together really quickly. Definitely one for a confident beginner and above. I may have made more already ? I've written more details, with photos, on my blog: http://sewslowsarah.com/2022/10/08/anna-allen-anthea-blouse/

I was so excited to receive my Anthea Blouse pattern in the A0 print shop format. I'm not a fan of pdf but can see it's many benefits. I'm an old fashioned sole so pattern patterns for me all the way - however, I'll be making this beautiful blouse so many times I'm glad I've got the pdf as back up!

Prompt and efficient delivery from The Foldline with their extra touches, postcard for notes and A4 envelope for the safe storage of the pattern.

The pattern was clear and straightforward to follow.  I used a cotton lawn for my make, downsized by one size for a closer body fit and just wow on those sleeves.

I've had so many compliments on this blouse which gives me confidence while wearing it.

This will not be my last Anthea. She's a favourite in my wardrobe ?

Go on give it a try - you won't be disappointed.

Sometimes a pattern comes along that changes everything… enter a me-made wardrobe full of garments with puff sleeves!

The pattern itself is straightforward to sew and has a really nice finish inside. The neckline and button placket are finished with bias binding (you have a pattern piece to make it or you can use pre-made), I found it a great opportunity to use a contrast binding so it looks really pretty on the inside.

It’s a relaxed fit, so if you prefer a tighter fit you may want to size down. I find its really nice to have the ease to tuck into jeans. These sleeves are a thing of beauty, you really do have to make it to see what the fuss is all about! I cannot (and will not) stop making this pattern! I’ve made a couple of the blouse in linen and cotton (the main image is shirting cotton). I’ve made the dress in a lightweight denim with pearl  snaps instead of buttons and I’ve also hacked this into a dress with a square neckline (using the Friday Pattern Company Square Neck Top neckline with mods). I love them all and can definitely see more Anthea’s in my sewing future. It’s definitely a pattern that gives me a lot of joy to sew!