Charm Patterns Mariner Top

It will come as no surprise to you that I took this top pattern and opted to make a dress by adding a gathered skirt. I also skipped on the collar detail (for a couple of reasons). My use of vintage inspired fashion is quite conservative – I personally think there is a thin line for me between embodying the vintage aesthetic and looking like I’m in costume. If I’d made the mariner straight, I think I would have looked as if I just stepped off the stage as a cast member in Anything Goes and, while I have had some stage experience in my time, this is not the look I want for everyday. I also have a broad back so that collar would really do me no justice. Now some time in the future I may well make a block colour version and shorten the back collar or maybe even figure out a way to use only the front collar piece but that’s for another day.

The first incarnation of the dress I made in 4oz denim from Jenny Stitches and used the sleeve pattern pieces (which I loved as they’re quite billowy and dramatic). I would love to make another version in black as I am trying to build up my black basics in my me made wardrobe. Must be the inner witch I’m channeling.

I also tried out the sleeveless version with all in one facing in this floral cotton from Sew Me Sunshine which makes a beautiful summer dress (not that I’ll get too many more opportunities to wear it this year). I’ve paired it with the Jennifer Lauren Juniper cardigan in french terry from Bumble Bunches. I love that the same pattern can be given a very different feel by a minor change and different textile.

I’ll definitely revisit this pattern as I love a good princess seamed bodice. And with Gertie’s patterns, cup sizes are accounted for which makes the fitting of the garments an absolute breeze. I didn’t account for the shoulder when I made the pattern for the second time; having made a sleeveless version I noticed that the shoulders do need a bit of work so that’s something to remember for next time (although I think ‘d like to try to make a cap sleeve next time).

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