Whilst Tilly and the Buttons' Bettine dress pattern took the whole world and its dog by storm, I was left feeling sad that elasticated waists and tulip skirts are not a good look for me. Then Tilly shared tips for making a jersey Bettine dress and a light bulb went on in my head!
I absolutely love Bettine's scoop neckline, kimono sleeves and sweet tab cuffs...all details that I associate with the perfect T-shirt design. With that in mind and the abundance of jersey in my fabric stash, I'm well equipped to fill that smart T-shirt shaped hole in my wardrobe.
For my first Bettine T-shirt, of many no doubt, I used some super cool, reversible jersey I snagged for £1 on Leicester market. Sadly, I didn't realise that it was heat sensitive until I pressed the life out of the neckline, which has left an unsightly mark. I've still been wearing it though, because I love the shape and print...I'm just pretending its tie-dye fabric ;o)
The only modification I made to the pattern was to add around 15cm to the hem, making sure I followed the natural curve of the side seam to accommodate my muffin-top hips. I also opted to finish the neckline with the facing provided, instead of drafting a neckband. I love a good neckband, but sometimes feel it can look too casual and I wanted this to be a smarter T-shirt. The facing worked really well as my jersey is sturdy and I just trimmed it all the way down.
I'm sure you agree that the tab cuffs are a really sweet feature, especially in a different print. I'm excited to make an army of Bettine T-shirts, in both jersey and woven fabrics. Who's with me?
Wow, the cuff detail is so neat! As soon as I get a machine that can handle jersey, I'm totally in, haha.
ReplyDeleteHaha, you go girl!
DeleteWhat a good idea, I have this pattern and the tulip skirt sadly doesn't suit me either, my one and only attempt went in the bin... Thanks for this post!
ReplyDeleteGlad I've helped you find a way of enjoying this lovely pattern 😃
DeleteI like this top. That fabric is lovely and what bargain. Xx
ReplyDeleteVery classy, love those cuffs with tab in contrast.
ReplyDeleteFabulous! Definitely gonna give this a go. Thanks for the inspiration Marie.
ReplyDeleteYou're most welcome Stefanie!
DeleteI'm with you! I was thinking of changing the skirt style might be a cute modification, too!
ReplyDeleteOh yes, great idea! Looking forward to seeing your patten hack!
DeleteI thought the Bettine would make my bum look huge but it actually looked OK when it was finished (well I can't actually see it but it felt OK!) I agree with you though the shape of the top is really flattering and makes a great T-shirt. I have done my last Vintage Pledge post for 2015 and I have shared my three favourite vintage patterns because I didn't get chance the other week when you were sharing yours. You can put any picture from the post on the pinterest board (unless I can do it myself?) My final paragraph sums up what you have done for me and my vintage pattern collection. Thanks Marie. Love from Jo x
ReplyDeletehttp://joeveryday19@blogspot.co.uk
Oh Jo, thank you! I'm over the moon that you've been taking part and I've loved seeing all your makes!
DeleteOh you totally reminded me that Bettine can be jersey/stretch too! I really like the neckline... will give it a go too!
ReplyDeleteHehe, you're welcome :o)
DeleteTotally inspiring!
ReplyDeleteJust come across this post googling for Bettine Top ideas and love your version - like you my body shape just does not suit the tulip skirt :-( Was wondering if you used interfacing on the facing pieces? Thank you for the inspiration!
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