Making The Ogden Cami

This is one of those patterns I’ve heard about since it was released. I know of so many people that love this pattern. But I never got around to making it until now. So, this post is about my experience making the Ogden cami.

This is picture above is the modified version that I made that I really like. Changes were made for me to get the look and fit I want.

The unaltered version of the top:

Above you’ll see the original version of the cami as it’s to be sewn.The front and back are lower than what I wanted for this. I also wanted to make sure that the straps would be bra-friendly. You can also see in this picture that the lining of the top is short.

Here’s how I achieved a look I really like:

shortened the straps in order to raise the neckline (probably about 3″)
widened the straps to make sure it would cover my bra straps
lengthened the lining about 3″
lengthened the top about 4″
widened the part of the cami where the straps attach

Here is a picture to show what the Ogden cami looks like with raising the straps, but keeping the lining and length of the top the same.

Ogden cami with Colette patterns Iris shorts

The top looks much better with the new length. I also love how the neckline looks with the shorter straps. Now I can see myself making more of these in different colors and patterns. This would be a useful top to have even as the seasons transition. I can wear these under a blazer.

This final version is made from a yellow and white checked lightweight cotton blend. I used the same fabric for the lining as well. It has become the perfect summer top!

If you’re unfamiliar with the pattern, you can take a look here. I bought the PDF version. It’s only a few pieces of paper to put together. I’ve been making a lot of summer tops lately.

So far this summer is becoming quite productive!

Butterick 6814 Made With Minerva

This is a springtime pattern (I think) that is a very easy top to make and wear. As you may know, I’m a Minerva Maker, so for this project in May, I chose to get a cotton shirting from them. Here is a link to a previous post using Minerva fabric. This Butterick 6814 made with Minerva fabric was the perfect choice for me. And the results turned out great!

I’m always concerned when I get a pattern that has a V-neck. The V’s tend to be too low for my taste and comfort level. That means more work because the neckline will need to be raised. BUT, that was not the case with this pattern.

This pattern has the perfect V-neck without alterations!

While the above statement may not be a big deal to some of you, for me it’s huge! 😂 I love the look of V-neck tops, but they sometimes involve more work than I’m wanting to do.

The blouse I made was an unintended change to the pattern. I didn’t realize when I cut out the top that the sleeves weren’t folded up to show the shorter version. Therefore, I made a long sleeve version of View A. There are plans to make this the correct sleeve length out of a cotton eyelet fabric I have. I can’t wait to get that one done!

For now, this one will do. This is the type of top that makes an outfit look more put together instantly. Isn’t it great to have those types of things in the closet? And now as things start to open back up, I might actually have some place to go (eventually).

I have a blog post the really covers the fabric (it’s lightweight, washes and dries great, and sews up beautifully). You can get to that post here.

I hope I’ve given you another idea of something to add to your wardrobe. In the meantime, my plan to keep sewing and improving my skills!

End of Summer Yellow Dress

Sewing Vogue 8985

There are times when I buy fabric with a plan in mind.. This rayon challis in yellow and white polka dot was one of those. It just SCREAMS summer. This pattern (V8985) is one I’ve had for a few years. I knew that I wanted a simple style that wouldn’t take away from the fun of the fabric. As a result, this is the perfect combination for an end of summer yellow dress!

Yellow and white polka dot rayon challis
V8985

*For more information on sewing with rayon challis, you can check out this post here.

Changes I made to the pattern

I made changes to the pattern to get a look I love. Summers here are hot and humid, staying cool is imperative. It can be too hot to wear a tank top underneath another top or dress. That’s why I added a panel made from white rib knit. The direction of greatest stretch goes across the body. I had to make sure I could pull it over my head since I didn’t add buttons. I did something similar here in this dress.

Vogue 8985 Front view with modesty panel, end of summer yellow dress

You can often add a “modesty” panel to the front of a dress or top.

The skirt lining is sewn together as one with the fashion fabric. I put these with WRONG sides together. This result is the right side of the lining is next to the body which allows for a nicer look. Consequently, this made assembling the in-seam pockets a breeze!

Vogue 8985 Back view with skirt lining, end of summer yellow dress

Those are all the changes for this dress. The changes were easy to make and didn’t change the look or style of the dress. For Fall weather, this pattern can be made from a heavier fabric (something like a poly/wool blend) and can be worn with a long sleeve t-shirt underneath.

Fall plans

Speaking of cooler weather, I am in the process of deciding what I’m making for Fall. That decision is generally based on what I want and could really use.

Vogue 8985 front view with modesty panel and skirt lining, end of summer yellow dress

Until next time… I’ll just keep sewing!