Halfmoon Atelier Vondel Wrap Top and Dress

The Vondel wrap top lives up to it's description as '...a feminine, easy-to-wear true wrap with a deep V neck and a long waist tie to close." It was a pleasure to sew and is lovely to wear. The instructions were easy to follow, very clear, and concise. In addition, there's 4 part sew-a-long with photos on the blog, plus a hack for a full length dress and an added button closure on the bodice. I made this top in a denim blue viscose linen blend. It suited this pattern really well. The French seams keep the fraying edges contained. I used my zipper foot in Step 9, finishing the neck, to get my stitch line on the bodice close to the yoke edge. I also found switching to the zipper foot when setting in the sleeves allowed my to have more control with easing in the sleeve head.

I made a few alterations. My measurements are HB 37.5 FB 40.5 W 34 H 43. I chose to sew a size 7 (39.25/33/43.25) and do an FBA (included in the instructions) and grade out to a size 8 at the hip, based on my previous experience with a HA pattern and my body shape, also due to linen's tendency to relax while worn. As well, the size 7 yoke fit my shoulders better than the size 8 yoke. I also did a full bicep adjustment. The size 7 sleeve measured 13.5" at the widest point, my bicep measures 14", so I added 1.5". I raised the tie position by 1". I've worn the top a few times, and I'm satisfied with my alterations. I will add the snap at the front, as I found it gaps more than I'm comfortable with when I'm sitting.

I would definitely sew this again, and I would love to add embroidery or some type of embellishment on the yoke at the back and the front. I like the fit and the style of the Vondel. It has a nice shape without being too fitted or too boxy. Recommend!

This is the size 4 with no alterations. I always find it useful to know other bloggers stats for comparison so here goes. I’m 35”, 30”, 37”, bust, waist, hip. The size 4 stated 34 3/4”, 28 1/4”, 38 1/2” with the finished garment measurements as 36 1/2”, 41”, 42 1/2”. I would say the size 4 fit is perfect on me.
The line drawing shows 3 lengths. I went with the middle one but lengthened it by 2 1/2 inches at the lengthen line as it looked little short for me on the model.
It has a one-piece shoulder yoke with a curved center back and front and back gathers for shaping and three sleeve length options – cuff, half-sleeve and 7/8-sleeve
I have added a press stud for modesty but it’s not too obvious as the fabric isn’t pulling there.
The base of the back yoke dips down a little which is a lovely feature.
The details in the instructions to achieve a really beautiful finish are clear and straight forward to follow. Including french seams, even for the pockets – something I didn’t even know was possible!
More details and images on the blog!! https://lovelucie.org/2019/08/27/vondel-wrap-dress/

This is a beautiful sew. While I was making it I found the techniques described very different to how I have seen previous dresses, but the finish is immaculate.
Made one as a present for my sisters birthday, will now be making several more for me as my summer staples