It's Pattern Review Sewing Bee Time Again.

I have once again entered the Pattern Review Sewing Bee. Every week, if we advance, we are given a surprise challenge with several days to complete it. It is a fun and stressful contest with fun prizes along the way. I am terribly competitive with myself, so a contest like this is always a character building experience. 

The first project is to sew a fitted blouse with set-in in sleeves. It must not be made from a knit fabric and not be of the pullover style. I was indecisive about what to make so I made two blouses.  One is definitely a traditional blouse, while the other is a bit more dramatic. 

Love the cuffs on this!

I made covered buttons and placed them horizontally for visual interest. 

I like the side slit and curved hem.

This top is a combination of patterns. For the body I used McCalls 5597 

and the sleeves of Simplicity 6110. If this top had fit the qualifications, I would have made it completely and the pants and skirt too!  Aren't they all darling?

Simplicity 5597

Now, the second entry possibility made with more of my African Ankara fabric: 

This one is made by combining Vogue 8866 for the full flounce and Simplicity 1425 for the body of the blouse.

 For the sake of the contest, you are to show your inside finishing. I trimmed the neckline, shoulder, and peplum seams with bias tape. For the underside of the flounce, I used a contrast cream colored fabric to add interest when it flips up.

   

 The shaping is achieved with princess seams in front and back darts

I am leaning toward entering the blue and white blouse. What do you think? There are many great entries, so we shall see who advances. Wish me luck :)

Happy Sewing,

Bianca