Finished a Cotton-Lycra top...
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxz-TA6mFxHFDjYe5TX5t5GaE2yTdwb66-JNYKDcObk-pGN0M53OP2F3Vm70J0jaQu7go41xYxSQw5b-KYoRxoT84KO9tFUJKgIYHGIqlkhSrRANhUdOOhosEqrSEUU67SbB5j6M-jL90/s400/25700.jpg)
from Simplicity 9508
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I'm calling it done, but a totally strapless top is not really very practical for me. So I debate adding straps in one of two ways:
Option 1: halter style
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD1_9HfX0M76nClbmhbm554Tvyk7LdRvH04UUe-Wfn6jZFdgwq-OpMsUP6u_Mq5ml2S3hzeMoHfRytVPLmZxc9juDgDzXBLYSoDvXlchunXqQ_Jf34NYS0OEBJfaUc5b5Ph6HN-nm-61M/s400/26600.jpg)
Sort of spaghetti strap style (which matched what the pattern had in mind) ... (I only show one of the two straps because that's all the fabric I have left. Either I use it in one wide piece for Option 1, or cut it into two narrow pieces to effect Option 2. Any opinions would be appreciated.
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My pattern review for patternreview.com...
It was such a pretty piece of fabric in the too-short skirt I found at a yard sale for 50 cents. I bought it anyway, thinking I could use the fabric somehow. But it has sat in my stash of things to remake someday, and I never could decide what to make with it. The pattern stash contest has been such a butt-kicker and inspiration to "just do it" and find some pattern. The result ... this little bandeau style top...
Pattern Description: Dresses in 3 styles and various lengths. I made a top (shortened version of View C).
Pattern Sizing: Junior Sizing: 3/4 - 15/16. For some reason, I ended up with the sizing that only included 3/4-9/10. My measurements fit closer to the 13/14. Fortunately it's a very simple pattern. I added an inch plus to each side seam, and then only had to make a few adjustments afterwards. (I ignored the elastic guides and just winged it with the elastic at the upper edge).
Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it? Yes, except shorter and I simplified the back.
Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes, very straight-forward.
What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern? I like the simple lines and straight skirt. I didn't want the fussy tie back, so I simply cut mine straight across.
Fabric Used: Cotton-Lycra.
Pattern alterations or any design changes you made: I cut the back straight across.
Looking for opinions::: Debate shoulder strap options OK. It's done. But it's strapless. Which isn't very practical for me. The pattern shows view A with narrow straps... but I'm not sure I like that as well as something else I'm considering.... and I'd love to get some opinions ...
Option 1: Wide halter strap
Option 2: Narrow shoulder strap similar to the pattern View A. (I only show one strap on my dressform, since that's all the fabric I have left ... either I cut it as one wide halter strap for Option 1, or divide it into 2 narrower straps for Option 2.
I'd appreciate any opinions. I like Option 1 because I can fit a halter bra under that wider strap. With the narrow straps, I face the "how to wear a bra" dilemna, and the top is tight ... needs a bra in civilized company.
Would you sew it again? Would you recommend it to others? I won't sew it again. But if you have it in your stash, I'd recommend it.
Conclusion: Cute pattern. Very quick and easy.