The Pattern: New Look 6599

Why I decided to make this pattern:

I do love lace and clothing that reminds me of the Gunne Sax and Laura Ashley patterns of the 70’ and 80’s. There are also so many different ways I can make this and incorporate it into my everyday wardrobe. For my first time, I decided to make version D without the ruffles and lace. I did decide to use some yellow bias tape in place of the lace, and I think it turned out well. The back of the shirt also has a fun lace-up detail which works well for changing bodies. I am losing weight recently as I am training for another marathon, so being able to lace this up as I lose inches is a great plus in my book. Also it works if you want to make a larger size for added room and comfort!

This is not a beginner pattern. I do want to make that clear. The basics of the shirt like the sleeves, button front, and collar are easy to understand. It is just when you add in all the other details that you want to make sure you are either a confident beginner or an intermediate level sewist prior to starting this project.

I do want to stress that there is some hand sewing in this to make it look much better. Like doing a ladder stitch on the collar and button placket. It makes the end result look so nice! I always ladder stitch then go over that with a top stitch. Everything is even on both sides and you do not end up with the warping of the fabric like I used to get. Sometimes sewing is just about slowing down and making a quality garment that will last you years. That is the big different between what you make at home versus the cheap quality of fast fashion in the stores. So make sure you slow down when you sew!

I do want to stress that there is some hand sewing in this to make it look much better. Like doing a ladder stitch on the collar and button placket. It makes the end result look so nice! I always ladder stitch then go over that with a top stitch. Everything is even on both sides and you do not end up with the warping of the fabric like I used to get. Sometimes sewing is just about slowing down and making a quality garment that will last you years. That is the big different between what you make at home versus the cheap quality of fast fashion in the stores. So make sure you slow down when you sew!

My Overall Thoughts:

I cannot wait to make this shirt again. There are some changes I will make next time. The length of the shirt is a bit short for me, so I will likely extend that. I also had to make the sleeve cuffs a little bigger as my arm circumference is a bit bigger than the pattern. So make sure you measure that! I almost forgot. I think I will also make one that has lace next time and maybe choose a fabric that won’t make your eyes bleed when you see me in full sunlight. Next time I will definitely go for a gunne sax look! I am still on the fence about the ruffles for myself. I think they are cute, but not for me.

If you would like to purchase this pattern, feel free to use this link. Happy Sewing my friend!