If you are sick and tired of hearing me sing the praises of Burda World of Fashion, skip this post. As a BWOF-disciple, it's my commission to spread the BWOF gospel and win converts.As I began working on my current project, I fell in love with BWOF all over again. Just look at the design details in that blouse! The double darts on the front and back shape the blouse and prevent it from being too boxy. The 3/4 length sleeves are kept in place with tabs and are current and perfect for mid-Atlantic Fall weather. The faux pockets add visual interest. Not to be outdone, the pants (10/2007 #130) have some design details, too. The bands on the pocket and legs are a subtle, yet stylish addition. One would have a difficult time finding details like that in any of the Big 4 plus size offerings. Trust me. I've looked. Connie Crawford is taking over Butterick's Plus Size department, which isn't a problem if you happen to like Connie Crawford. Sixteen of the 29 large size patterns are Connie Crawford's. Don't get me wrong. I'm happy Connie is making a living. I like her designs. But, come on Butterick. Offer some variety! Many of the patterns in the Big 4 catalogs are available up to size 24. So, in terms of volume, the Big 4 beats BWOF (I can't believe I said that!).
If I had Carolyn's talent for working a pattern; or Erica's gift for knocking-off high fashion, or Summerset's artistic vision, I probably wouldn't be so much in love with BWOF. But my strength is technical skill, so I have to depend on BWOF for style. And, for me, BWOF always delivers.
Elaray, you'd be proud of me. I am starting on my Very First BWOF pattern (hopefully) tonight. I'm a little nervous but I fear I'll be kicked out of the sewing circle if I don't sew a BWOF soon.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the mention! I love BWOF for some of the same reasons you do - the details are fabulous and the patterns are much more current than what the Big 4 offers.
ReplyDeleteI'm a disciple too and totally agree the details really make BWOF patterns, along with their pretty consistent sizing. I haven't bought a Big 4 pattern in ages, even when I see a design I like I know there is a BWOF out there that is similar.
ReplyDeleteBWOF has the best plus size designs of any company. I always want to make them. While I can use the bottoms, the tops are just too big. They actually have style and fit. The rest of the sizes are pretty great too. I love those pants and top.
ReplyDeleteBWOF is so great for plus sizes. I always look forward to seeing what you do with them. Connie Crawford, however, needs to look through some fashion magazines before drafting any more designs.
ReplyDeleteElaray - are you sitting down? Please I don't want to upset you and cause you bodily harm...but I think I'm gonna make the dress in the Fall Burda Plus magazine...yeap gonna dive right in and make a pattern from the magazine...cause I have several garments made from Burda patterns - one of which is a TNT - just haven't felt the BWOF love that you have...well technically this isn't a BWOF pattern is it since it's a Burda Plus - oh well...it's from the magazine so that counts, right?! *LOL*
ReplyDeleteI like the shape on that top! And the pants are going to be sharp.
ReplyDeleteI would loooove to hve technical skill......
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