Finished: BWOF 07/04 #140 Blouse 03/06 #131 Pants

Pattern Description: Short sleeved blouse

Pattern Sizing: European 44 - 54

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Basically, yes. I made a few changes.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
Yes. With my changes, this was a basic blouse with no special details, so I didn't need instructions. The original blouse has a cuff, but since I didn't include the cuff, I can't comment on the instructions for its construction.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
I wanted a basic short sleeved blouse. This was the closest BWOF came to a simple blouse.

Fabric Used:
A cotton shirting with lycra. I'm not entirely happy with my fabric choice. I wish I'd chosen a more feminine looking stripe.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:
I omitted the cuff and shortened the sleeve. Most short sleeve pattern pieces have a straight hemline. The BWOF pattern piece for the sleeve had a curved hemline. I considered making a straight hemline, but ultimately decided to maintain the curve. Because of this curve, the finished sleeve hem appears parallel to the floor when worn.

The original blouse was more tunic length than blouse length. I didn't realize this until the blouse was constructed, so I simply chopped off about 3 inches. This alteration changed the hem from a shirttail to a straight hem.

Conclusion:
This blouse came from the oldest BWOF in my collection. Fortunately, blouse styles have changed little in four years. BWOF is known for being fashion forward, but with just a few simple changes, this blouse became more classically styled.


Pattern Description: Fly front pants with back yoke

Pattern Sizing: European plus size: 44 - 52

Did it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope once you were done sewing with it?
Yes, exactly.

Were the instructions easy to follow?
This pattern has an interesting detail on the front pocket. The pocket has a self-fabric piping strip that inserts into a dart. As with many BWOF details, illustrated instructions would have made this detail easier to execute. I've learned to read the instructions several times and visualize the process.

What did you particularly like or dislike about the pattern?
This design seemed perfectly suited for a twill, Docker â„¢ style pair of pants.

Fabric Used:
Cotton twill. The fabric is a little stiff - like denim - but a few washings should solve that problem.

Pattern Alterations or any design changes you made:
I omitted the patch pockets on the back. I intended replace the patch pockets with welt pockets (to replicate Docker ™ styling), but I forgot. I usually lengthen the crotch of BWOF pants. These are not low rise pants by any means. I'm just more comfortable with a higher, nerdy waist.

Conclusion:
In addition to BWOF's fashion forward designs, they also have timeless, classic designs like these pants.