Trendy Turtleneck with Lekala 5648
Hi Friends!
It's funny how fashion works in cycles. Growing up, I always thought turtlenecks were so so ugly. But as styles change and things come back into fashion, I find myself drawn to their cozy shape.
I decided to sew one up in a gorgeous periwinkle rib knit I picked up from Fabricland, using Lekala's 5648 turtleneck pattern. After the huge amount of success I had with Lekala's classic dress, number 5957, I was keen to try more Lekala patterns. I made a giant round-up of all of my favourite Lekala designs and decided out of my many favourites I would try 5648 first. I figured since it was a knit, the fit would be the most forgiving.
haha, ha, ha, ha... ha.
Construction Details
In case you've never heard of them before, Lekala makes custom sewing patterns made to your measurements. This is supposed to eliminate the need for tricky fitting later on. I typed in my measurements and shortly after received a pattern in my inbox. For reference, I submitted that my high bust was 27.5", and my bust was 33". I sewed up the shirt as instructed and then tried it on.
The fit was horrendous.
With my usual push up bra on the shirt was nearly unwearable. There was so much pulling at my bust that it became nearly impossible for me to move my arms comfortably. Now, because I have no curves, I rely on a bra that adds a few inches to my bust. I decided to try the shirt on with a bralette, reducing my bust to its true 31" size to see if the shirt would at least be wearable then.
Nope.
Even with a bralette on, the shirt still has way too little space around the bust. I wore the bralette for all the photos today, and you can visibly see the bunching and dragging underneath my arms where the fabric is trying to stretch over my bust. And maybe it doesn't look like a huge issue but is SO uncomfortable to wear.
Even after reducing my size by 2", the shirt is still virtually unwearable.
Now this is super confusing because the woven shift dress I made fit perfectly in the bust without any alterations. Shouldn't it be harder to fit a woven than a knit?
I guess this post goes to show that no pattern company is perfect, and always make a toile first. I thought Lekala was going to be the answer to my fitting woes, but I guess I'll just have to keep looking. Maybe I can selvedge the rest of the shirt by re-drafting the bodice front? I'll report back if I find solution.
Until next time!
Rachel
