Zsalya Woven Blouse by Kate & Rose – Pattern Review

Today I’m sharing my Zsalya top! When I first started sewing more for myself, I searched on Facebook and Twitter for ‘pattern testers’ hoping to find some new designers and styles to try. I stumbled across Kate & Rose ‘s call for testers and happily signed up.This pattern has such unique details! I love how strong and unique her patterns’ aesthetic is, but the different versions I’ve seen online showcase the versatility of the design.

As a pattern tester, I received a copy of the pattern for free but all opinions are my own!

The front yoke has a wide cross-over that doesn’t gape or bunch; if you’re short torso-ed like me, it would even be nursing friendly without any adjustments. Look at the sleeve! Just a subtle detail that isn’t hard to sew, but I like what it adds to the profile.

The back is simple, and this picture clearly indicates to me again that I need to set up my full-size ironing board and/or figure out a better pressing strategy.

The sad part about this pattern is how much time I spent seam-ripping. I wanted to be all fancy and have the insides be beautiful so I tried to use bias-tape on the yoke seam… and didn’t account for the bulk added by the gathers. The front of the bodice stuck out like a hoop skirt – I wish I’d taken a picture! After painstakingly ripping out my top stitching and binding, I serged it like a lazy person.You can also see the original red & white fabric in this (bad) shot.

You can see the fabric’s subtle stripes in the close-up shots.

The sleeve cap has slight gathers, but no pouf-iness!

I’m really happy with how it turned out, but can see it getting shoved to the back of my closet due to its high iron needs. I need a maid!

Pattern:  Zsalya Top & Dress by Kate & Rose, size small (I was on the bubble between small & medium and opted down, I’m glad I did).

Fabric I used: Red and white striped shirting fabric from Jo-Ann Fabrics, dyed with RIT Fuchsia

Changes I made: I used a smaller hem allowance so it was slightly longer.

What I might do if I make it again: I can’t ever seem to get gathers on bodices “just right”. I might try a pleat(s) instead, or maybe even a knit bodice attached to a woven yoke.

Overall thoughts on the garment:  I love this silhouette. It totally hides a big lunch, the sleeve detail is fun, and fit is spot on. Fuchsia is one of my favorite colors!

Overall thoughts on the pattern: It is so well drafted and written, I think anyone could sew it and be happy with the result. I especially like that she included a “proper” and “fast and dirty” option for attaching the bodice and yoke. It’s nice to see how it “ought to be done” even if I choose the other option! I highly recommend it.