A chic choice for the lazy jumpsuit wearer

Reviewed by ChloeMontrose on 2nd July, 2020

On the advice of the pattern’s comprehensive instructions, I chose the size for the Frisco Jumpsuit (view A) based on my hip measurement and sewed up a straight size 10, even though my bust and waist are smaller (size 8) and I usually blend between sizes. As this jumpsuit has no closures it needs to be big enough to pull on over the hips and bum, and the waist and bust dimensions are less important as the fit there comes from the elastic and the straps (which can be tightened and shortened as necessary). I did make the elastic in the top back of the bodice and at the waist a little tighter and I shortened the straps slightly to make the bodice a bit less blousy, but it’s important to leave enough ease for comfortable wear.

The only pattern alterations I made were to add a little length to the rise and six centimetres to the leg (I’m 1.76m) – and a bit to the pockets (because I need a deep pocket, as my phone likes to leap to freedom from shallower confines.)

Instead of using the suggested D-ring for the waist tie I made a second tie (inspired by @nettameijer on Instagram). This tie is just decorative anyway, which is a boon to lazy dressers like me, who refuse to wear jumpsuits that require that anything be untied, unbuttoned or unzipped (and later re-tied, re-buttons and re-zipped) to go to the loo.

I used a cheap-as-chips viscose twill from Goldhawk Road; the colour is gorgeous and it has the perfect weight and drape – substantial enough but not bulky where the elastic gathers the fabric in. This fabric probably isn’t the best quality and it won’t last forever, but then neither will the British summer! I’m going to enjoy both while they last.

Not going to lie, this took me a while to make. Because of the princess seams and the elastic casings and facings, etc., there are a lot of pattern pieces to trace (if you’re that way inclined), cut and sew, and there’s a fair bit of top stitching. The final result is totally worth it though. The instructions are delightfully thorough, so while it is somewhat involved, I found it enjoyable to make and really nice to wear. I love my Frisco jumpsuit and I’ll definitely make this pattern again.

For more photos see my Instagram feed: @chloemontrose