Vogue 8816

From the pattern envelope: Pullover tops A, B, C, D, E or tunic (fitted through bust) have draped neckline variations, bias upper fronts, and narrow hem. B: Stitched hems on sleeves. A, D: Cap sleeves. B, C, D, E, F: Dropped shoulders. D, E, F: sleeves pleated into button cuffs with continuous lap. D, E, F: front extends into pleated back collar. This pattern is rated as Easy by Vogue. I chose view A.

Pattern Sizing:
This is a multi-sized pattern. A5 is 6 to 14 and E5 has sizes 14 to 22.

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

Were the instructions easy to follow?

Instructions were easy. This top goes together quickly and is pretty intuitive in the sewing steps.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I love the draped neckline. The length is excellent for me. Although the pattern suggests using a woven, I used a silk jersey. The directions call for either Crepe de Chine, Charmeuse or lightweight jersey. Since I used a knit and the pattern suggests wovens, all the edges were so nicely finished off and the inside back neck facing looks professional and polished.

Fabric Used:
Silk jersey I purchased from Vogue. It was only 45 inches wide, and I purchased 2 yards. It took a while to find a suitable top that would work with the yardage. I wanted something a little drapey and this pattern fit the bill!

Pattern alterations or any design changes you made:
Not many other than I had to take about 4 inches off the side seams. This top was HUGE!!! I suppose the sizing is due to the fact that the woven fabric needs to fit over your head. However, the neckline is quite wide and with the drapey neckline, I think this is missized. Based on finished bust measurements printed on the pattern tissue, a 16 should have fit perfect. Just be aware when you cut and sew you may need to take in the side seams so it doesn't hang on you.
The only other thing I decided to do was hem the cap sleeves with a bias binding. I was so pleased with how the neckline worked out I decided to use the same finish on the sleeves. I love how they turned out.

Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others?
Yes, I would sew this again. The variety of fabrics you can use along with the sleeve length will make this a more than once pattern. I think it has possibilities as a dress length as well.

Conclusion: This was one of those instant gratification projects that used the piece of silk jersey I had in my stash for about a year--I know, that isn't that long! But it was driving me crazy that I hadn't found a great pattern. That little problem is over!
Thanks for reading!
Sue