ALL the pockets!
A review of Helen's Closet Yanta Overalls
Reviewed by Mel Forrest on 18th July, 2019
I absolutely LIVE in dungarees at home, but wanted a smarter, more fitted pair that I could wear out and about too without looking like a children’s TV presenter or a clown. As soon as I saw the Yanta overalls I knew I was onto a winner!
If you include all of the top-stitched pockets and the zip, the Yantas are quite an involved sew, but a patient and determined beginner could conquer them if they set their mind to it.
I used a beautiful brick coloured sanded twill from Merchant and Mills for my overalls and the medium weight of the fabric is ideal – it’s structured enough to give good shape, but soft enough to be super comfortable to wear.
I thought the instructions were excellent – really clear and easy to understand with some good general tips throw-in. I have also made the York Pinafore by Helen’s Closet and rated those instructions highly too.
I wanted my overalls to be quite fitted, so I decided to make the size 4. I looked at the finished garment measurements rather than the size guide and I knew the size 4 would give me enough ease at the hips (my largest measurement).
I didn’t make any alterations at all, but I did include the zip. As Helen suggests, I basted the side seam together to check if I could get them on and off without a zip – I could, but it was a VERY tight squeeze! In the interest of going to the toilet more easily, I thought a zip was a worthwhile addition! I didn’t have an invisible zip available, so I used a regular metal one, which I think looks appropriately utilitarian.
The fit is perfect for me and the only change I would make next time is the pocket on the bib. Although the shape is a very cool detail and the stitching down the middle lines up beautifully with the seam – it’s very small! I prefer a massive bib pocket that I can fit my phone comfortably in!
My overalls are exactly what I wanted – comfortable to wear, fitted enough to look smart and with plenty of pockets! I’ll definitely be making another pair and have some more cotton twill in my stash that will be perfect!