Tomato Rayon Top, for me

A couple of weeks ago when I posted my favorite fabrics for clothing, I mentioned that one of them was rayon challis. Today I wanted to show you a top I made with one of Anna Maria Horner's Field Study rayon challis prints.

UPDATE: This pattern is now available as the Bianca Pattern

I designed this top pattern for myself a couple of years ago and have used it twice since then to make two other variations that you might remember: the first version was this Liberty Top, and the second one was this pink voile tunic. It definitely satisfies my criteria for an awesome pattern -- flattering fit, no zippers, easy to sew...so it's no surprise I keep coming back to it. I already have another one in my head to sew up soon!

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But let's talk about the rayon challis. One of the reasons I love wearing this top is because the fabric is SO. FREAKING. AMAZING. I love how it flows, is easy to sew with, and washes nicely. It's silky without being slippery, lightweight without being sheer. LOVE IT. In fact, I just ordered a bunch more from Anna Maria's shop the other day so I can make more out of it. It's just a great garment fabric for blouses and dresses.One thing I want to mention about sewing my own clothes is that it always seems to be a bit of a process; if I want to end up wearing the things I make, I often have to tear out, redo, or edit. They don't just magically materialize -- but that's part of the fun for me, the fact that it's a bit of a puzzle to solve. Here's a photo of the original length of this top, so maybe you can see what I'm talking about. (I actually made this top for the Spring Top Sewalong back in April, but then disliked the length, so it's been sitting on a shelf for a couple of months.)

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As soon as I saw that picture, I could see it was too long. It's not terrible, just not great. Have you ever looked at a photo of yourself and realized something looked unflattering on you? I just felt like it wasn't hitting in the right place. So I shortened it and now...much better!

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I guess sometimes it can be frustrating not to have something come out perfectly the first time...but maybe that's just a personal thing. Do you like to edit? Or do you prefer when things sew up exactly as planned?