Caftan of my dreams!!!

A review of Closet Core Patterns Charlie Caftan

Reviewed by roxyintransit on 28th November, 2018

I’ve had this pattern sitting in my stash for quite some time but now that I have a trip to the Philippines in December, I finally had the motivation I needed. I love everything about this pattern: the dramatic kimono sleeves, the roomy pockets, the v neckline, the shaping (via waist ties), and its comfortable to boot. Depending on the fabric you use, you can either make it casual or even dress it up. I sewed up view A (with the pleats), size 4 in the bust, graded up to size 8 in the hips and opted for the super wide sleeves. I used a dreamy Japanese textured cotton Kokka fabric in this fabulous palm fronds print, perfect for the islands. I had originally planned on sticking with the original boxy design but as much as I love that style, I’m learning that it doesn’t really suit my petite frame. So I added some waist ties for a more flattering silhouette and now it’s perfect! The pattern is very straightforward. The only tricky part as many others have already mentioned is that center panel. I decided to topstitch it in and take it really slow and it turned out just fine for me. Especially with the busy fabric, it’s not much a focal point but if I use a solid fabric, I might give it a shot for a neater finish. I will also want to move the center panel up at least an inch on future makes to better suit my short torso. And there will be future versions… I’m thinking maxi length in rayon challis?