Charlie Caftan review

A review of Closet Core Patterns Charlie Caftan

Reviewed by Sewingisbeing on 14th July, 2019

Dramatic and sophisticated, I was drawn to view C with it’s deep arms, plunging V neckline and side slits. A caftan definitely more Halston than Hippy, and perfect for my summer in the city. I made it up in a smart navy broiderie anglaise. Only after I had bought it I came to the realisation I needed to line the bodice. It was a bit of a bodge and not one I’d repeat. The rest of the make was pretty straightforward with the exception of the central panel. My corners were certainly not 90 degrees but the dark matt fabric hid imperfections well. Kudos to Mellemiio and her immaculate embroidered panel. By topstitching the panel in place as others have suggested the make could be simplified significantly. The sizing runs large and my size 14 could have easily been reduced to a 12 which would have made it sleeker as would taking out some of the fullness from the gathered section unless using a fabric with more drape.
I’m tempted to make it again, next time in an Indian block print I’ve got my eye on, as loungewear. Hippy in the house, Halston on the street. ???