Cotton Sateen Jumpsuit

Pattern Description:
Jumpsuit is close-fitting through bodice with open back, buckled back band, stand-up collar, and exposed separating zipper closure. Semi-fitted pants on jumpsuit have back welt and side-front pockets and invisible zipper closure. Note: Separate pattern pieces are included for cup sizes A, B, C, D.

Pattern Sizing:
6-14 (there is also a larger size range for this pattern. I sewed a straight size 12 B cup. I have a small bust, but this size was just about perfect.

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Absolutely

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Not really. I think I expected far more clarity in the instructions. there are several occasions where you are told to baste pieces together, but then not told to remove the basting – eg on the pleats. I screwed up the welt pocket as it wasn’t clear and I usually use a different method. The bodice construction was clear though, although it does have you use hand-sewn slip stitching to close up a section, where this can be done easily by machine. The instructions are adequate, but you really do need to know what you are doing. With just a little more detail, they could have been very easy to follow. If I was new to sewing I wouldn’t have had a clue!

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I really love the unique design details and the back of the bodice. However once sewn I began to realise it’s not an easy garment to get in and out of!!!!!
I also hate the welt pocket construction on these – there are better ways to make a decent welt pocket.

Fabric Used:
I used a cotton sateen with stretch for the whole pattern. The pattern suggests you use a stable woven for the trousers and a stretch knit for the bodice. As I have no bust I went for the stretch sateen throughout and it works well. A knit bodice might be just a little more comfortable.

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
I didn’t make any design changes. If I was using a knit for the bodice I would have sized down to a 10, but the 12 is perfect in the more stable stretch cotton. I lengthened the legs by about 5 cm. I want to wear this with high heels and I’m 5ft 7 30 inch inseam. I added a couple of cm length to the bodice to account for my long torso and that worked well. I also added a couple of cm to the back band, as I felt it was a tiny bit too short. Actually, with the buckle fastening, I think it would have been fine, but I was pin fitting, to begin with, and only added the fastening later.
Instead of a parachute buckle, which I find a bit chunky and worried that one would be uncomfortable, I decided to get a wide bikini clasp instead and I think it’s a good alternative.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
I would sew this again. I think it could be hacked really well to add a skirt instead and could make a very stunning dress, or just trousers on their own. I think I’d like to try the suggested fabric combo at some point, but I’m not sure my wardrobe calls for more than one of these!!!

Conclusion:
A great eye-catching pattern for a special occasion. Not a super easy sew, but not really difficult either. You need to have basic sewing skills as the instructions are not comprehensive. Also figure out how on earth you are going to go to the loo!!!!!! More details over on my blog: Ragbags & Gladrags