
It is so much fun when you can create exactly what you want and have it work out the first time around. This is particularly so because I had already gone through the process of fitting and tweaking my basic sloper for the "darted" front bodice some time ago. So all I had to do was make the changes to the basic shirt pattern as needed to make this one. I had a few design elements in mind that I knew I wanted, including that elastic sleeve detail. I just love it.
I kept the upper band flat and just kept the 1" elastic in the area of the sleeve to keep it flat over the bust and at the back. This small detail made all the difference for me.
Another very important detail that made the difference for this being an "off-the-shoulder", was the need for a different type of dart. I made the regular side bust dart into a "french" dart so that it would not appear like a lone line floating in a sea of clouds. It also elongated the torso. Another win. Also, I just had to have the regular "men's" shirt pleat in the back in order to give it that oversized look. Since I have fallen in love with my new "boyfriend" jeans, I now wanted to have a "boyfriend" shirt. So, I made sure I exaggerated the length of the bodice and the sleeves.
Construction Details:

The sleeve cuffs are really regular double button oversized as well so they hang over my thumb just a little to make it look too big but not slouchy. The buttons were a gift from a customer, which made the outfit. It really is amazing how easy it is for people to understand your style just by the clothes you wear.
And to think, I didn't want to wear an "off-the-shoulder" because I don't like the idea of adding any extra to my chest area. This flat band treatment really made all the difference. The pants are my Style Arc Cassie pants from last year I think.Construction Details:
- Pattern- self drafted
- Pattern Details:
- Rotate side dart to french dart
- disregard waist darts so as to keep all amount of fullness
- lengthen bodice front and back by 2 inches
- lengthen sleeve 2 inches
- slash and spread sleeve cap to add fullness at top only all the way to cuff
- measure and cut top of shoulder and sleeve away.
Have you taken the time to make sure you have a basic pattern that you can work from when you find that special outfit or garment inspiration?
I love this shirt. I want to make it in a light Jean fabric.
ReplyDeleteThanks samone, that would be lovely.
DeleteWow, self drafted, it really is a beautiful shirt, love the off the shoulder look. You look amazing.
ReplyDeleteThank you Sharon. Took a little work. But I was determined.
DeleteThis is a great shirt and so feminine and pretty. I am a white shirt fiend and may just have to have one of these in the closet. Thanks for giving such a great tutorial on the pattern changes. You rock.
ReplyDeleteThanks Bunny. Go for it. I would really like to see what you come up with. Let me know how it works out for you.
DeleteOH my I am on love with that shirt.
ReplyDeleteHello Denise. You should make one.
DeleteOMG! This sure is fabulous! You know girlfriend, I have to have a top like this in my wardrobe! You look so chic and stylish in this top (actually the entire outfit)! Thanks so much for sharing, you are the best!
ReplyDeleteThank you Myra. If you make it let me know if you have questions. I would love to see your version.
DeleteI love an off-the-shoulder top and I love this one! It's awesome and you look great!
ReplyDeleteThank you Erica B. all you need is just one more. That is all. Just one more, it wouldnt hurt right? Lol.
DeleteThis is a great look and you wear it well, my dear.
ReplyDeleteCennetta thanks very much.
DeleteLovely! The off the shoulder detail looks great!
ReplyDeleteMuch appreciated "My Handmade Space".
DeleteYour changes have totally transformed the classic shirt. It is no longer a classic white shirt but a sassy white shirt. Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteTomasa, I love "Sassy White shirt" not classy. Thank you.
DeleteVery pretty and summery if that a word, :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Marcy. I think its a word...if not, I really don't care, cause I like it.
DeleteOh my! This is not the traditional button down shirt. It is very appealing.
ReplyDeleteThanks Dorothy, of course it is, its just in overdrive, right.
DeleteThis is really nice and on trend
ReplyDeleteThank you Serenity.
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