My first ever Jennifer Lauren Gable Top is a rather ghoulish one, don't you think? Originally planned for last Halloween, I didn't actually get round to making it until earlier this month. Better late than never though!
You guys went crazy for my fabric choice on Instagram, but sadly it was from Stuart's stall on Leicester Market and sold out pretty quickly.
The Gable Top itself has been a big hit with the sewing community and I can totally see why. With just three or four pattern pieces (depending on which version you go for) it's super quick and easy make with a cute retro twist. It's also perfect for using up shorter lengths of fabric and lends itself to so many different prints and colours, with breton stripes a popular option.
For my version I opted for three-quarter-length sleeves, simply by omitting the cuffs on view three. Sizing wise I cut a 12 for the shoulders, armholes and sleeves. I then cut a 14 from the underarm to the waist and graded up to a 16 from the waist to the hem. I also ended up taking five centimetres off the length, something I'll account for before cutting out next time.
Gable's talking point is its 1950s-inspired slash neckline of course. It's really classic and chic, with neat topstitching that frames it perfectly.
My one tip would be to mark your centre-front and centre-back neckline. This is because there's no suggested fold-line to create the slash - instead you try it on and pin it to your liking before topstitching in place. This eyeballing technique means that the lowest part of my front neckline is slightly off-centre. Not enough to be glaringly obvious, but enough to drive me inwardly insane. Had I marked my CF and CB this wouldn't have been an issue...but you live and learn!
Have you sewn the Gable Top? What do you think of the pattern? Also, have you seen that Jen's releasing a Gable Dress expansion pack soon? That sounds pretty exciting!
In other news, I've calculated that it's been over a year since I had my hair cut and you can tell...in a really bad way. It's shapeless, lacklustre and just so MEH! Since changing jobs my favourite retro hair salon is a lot further away and I can't easily nip in after work anymore. I really need to make an appointment asap though...only thing is I can't decide whether to have a fringe cut in again and if so what type!?!
What a cool top! That print is freskishly awesome - I love Halloween prints. I do like the neckline on this design too and your top-stitching looks great!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much!
DeleteI like your long hair, so my vote is for your cute bangs and a trim! Such a fun top and I love the 3/4 sleeves.
ReplyDeleteBangs and a trim...might have to go for that :o)
Delete"Not enough to be glaringly obvious, but enough to drive me inwardly insane." - we've all been there!
ReplyDeleteHaha...can I get an AMEN ;o)
DeleteI can't believe you said that - I was admiring your hair from the back and then you said MEH! Anyway fringes are hard work - my daughter and I have one. I like the shape of the top. Your shape is so much like mine, that is why I like reading your reviews and modifications. Jo x
ReplyDeleteHaha! I've always preferred how I look with a fringe but remember how much work they are. Really pleased you find my 'reviews' helpful!xx
DeleteYour "ghoulish" top looks great! Re haircut, I've always loved the way you look in fringe bangs. But if I remember, Charlotte didn't like bangs? But if it's hard to get to your stylist, that could be a problem. For the back, just do what is your heart's desire! You have thick hair that probably takes any styling you like and looks fabulous!
ReplyDeleteAaaw, thanks Cherie! And you're spot on Charlotte's not a massive fan of the type of fringes I like :-/
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