For this month’s #SewMyStyle the pattern was The Valley Blouse by Cali Faye Collections.As the pattern calls for a floaty fabric, I think my black and white Flamingos cotton poplin is perfect for this top. I got the fabric from my local fabric.From past experience with this company’s patterns and looking at the finished garment measurements on the pattern pieces, I decided that the best size to cut a medium, although my body measurements suggest cutting a Large. I also shortened the sleeve by 5 cm.

I started by stay-stitching the necklines and the armholes within the seam allowance.Once I stitched the shoulder seams together I inserted my sleeve on the flat. Time consuming, I know, however, this technique works best for me (apart from the part where I keep stabbing myself with the pins).To gather the front and back pieces into the yoke I used a piece of parcel thread which I zig-zagged around.For the cuff, I decided to interface it, because I thought it will make it easier to make the buttonholes and I like the crisp look of an interfaced cuff. I was not wrong!I then blind stitched the wrong side by hand, so there are no visible stitches on the right side of the garment. With this blouse, I decided against finishing the raw edges, because one most of the seams will be hidden in the facings or hems and two the fabric is quite light and I did not want to add bulk to it.Although I have sized down to a medium, I still feel that the top is way to big for me. It is fun but the little keyhole detail although cute, on me it just shows off my bra, making me self-conscious every time I wear it.My preferred styling of this top includes adding a belt or tuck it into the waist of a skirt or trouser. Because of my petite frame, I feel like I am a balloon just have to emphasise my waist in order to balance the outfit.
I am not very impressed with this top either after the mixed feelings I’ve had about the skirt by the same designer I am actually thinking of skipping on the Hampshire trouser pattern due later in the year and replace it with the Flint pattern by Megan Nielsen instead.

What do you think? Should I stick with the #SewMyStyle pattern or replace it with the one I think I’ll like how it looks on me?

#SewMyStyle 2017 – links to my previous makes in the challenge: January – Toaster Sweater, February – Saunio Cardigan, March – Virginia Leggings, April – Bridgetown Dress, May – Basics.Pocket Skirt.June – Briar Top and Sweater