Designer Stitch- Eleni Top, Tunic and Dress

If you have been on the fence about the off-the-shoulder look, read on about my own hesitation and my surprising conclusion after trying the look myself!

I was on the testing team for the newly released Designer Stitch Eleni Pattern. This pattern has many options including a top, tunic and dress version. Additional options include a flounce and many different sleeve variations.

The first version I did is the tunic version and includes pockets. I did the 7/8 flared sleeve and the optional neck tie. I originally added a lace flounce but decided it wasn’t quite the look I was going for. Instead of completely removing the lace, I used the lace as an accent over the casing on the neck edge. I also made the neck tie with one side in linen and the other side with the lace.

I usually love to have some pops of colour in my garments, but I saw something similar on Pinterest and was trying to recreate this monochromatic look. It ended up being quite different from the original inspiration, but I love the look nonetheless.

For my next version, I went with the top and the long sleeves and elastic at the cuff. I also did the optional neck tie with this top as well.

Can I just say that the neck tie should not be an option? It takes this garment to an entirely new level so I would highly suggest adding this to whichever version of this you make.

I have to be honest in admitting that I almost passed on this test because I have never worn anything like this before and thought I wouldn’t like this style. Ann convinced me to give it a try and I am so glad I did. I really do love the look and all of the testers looked great in their versions. I don’t often make two versions back to back but I could hardly wait to try out another one. And I already have a third one planned with a beautiful border print that I spied in my local fabric store!

With all of these options, you can create many different looks from this one pattern. And this pattern is a really quick and easy project. I am really glad I jumped out of my comfort zone and created these tops. Not only is this a very stylish garment, it is very comfortable. That really surprised me as the off-the-shoulder look has always seemed to me to be a fussy look that would leave me constantly fiddling to keep everything in its place. I was completely wrong. The design is very secure and I feel just as good doing work around the house in this as I feel fashionable going out and about!

If you have hesitated trying this style, I highly recommend that you too give the Eleni Top, Tunic and Dress pattern to a try. And it is on sale until Saturday, April 29, 2017 for $8.50 US!

pattern name:

Eleni Top, Tunic and Dress

type/options:

*off-the-shoulder/Bardot style, peasant style that covers shoulders, and a modesty style that gives a beautifully shaped neckline for more coverage
*top, tunic, and two dress lengths- knee and maxi
*sleeve options include- short, flared 7/8 length, long sleeve with or without elastic, and a gorgeous tiered cuff design
*optional flounce, neck tie, soft waist tie, and shoulder straps

designer:

Designer Stitich Sewing Patterns

sizes:

womens US sizes 2 to 22

trim/no trim:

trim pages

layers:

pattern offers the ability to print only the size/sizes you need

pros:

a quick sew that has numerous gorgeous options

cons:

If you have never worn this style before, you may need to just jump in with both feet to get over any trepidation that this style is not for you…with so many options, there is sure to be a combination(or many!) that you will fall in love with!

what was my experience I had with this pattern:

I was surprised at how quickly I could sew this up. I used fold over elastic for the elstic casing on the neck edge and it gave it a very comfortable fit…next time I will also use the fold over elastic on the arms, too.

my suggestions for when you sew your own:

Using a very lightweight cottons, linens, rayon, silk and silk type of fabric will give you a beautiful flowy look.

***This post contains affiliate links and I did receive this pattern in return for testing. As always, all opinions are my own.***