Pattern: Deer and Doe Bruyère
Size: 44
Modifications: None
Fabric: Robert Kaufman chambray dots in burgundy
Worn with: Ginger Jeans #2
Many patterns require some convincing for me to make them (I'm a creature of habit) - either they don't seem my style at first, the fabrics used in the samples aren't something I normally sew with, etc. - and Bruyère was no exception. Because I love the Archer so much, I wasn't sure Bruyère was my style/taste. However, it only took a few bloggers (Tilly, Paunnet, By Sandra's Hand, The Quirky Peach) to assure me that this was, indeed, totally my style. It's more feminine than the Archer, and it really suits a curvier figure.
I made this up in my normal Deer and Doe size (44) - and everything fits really well (Deer and Doe drafts for C cups - which I happen to be). The only fitting issue might be that the waistband seems slightly snug, and I might size up next time. (While taking these photos, I realized just how snug it really is...)
I did have a few issues with the pattern, but they're all due to personal preference. I don't really care for the fiddly sleeve placket (see below) - I found it to be kind of a squirrelly way to go about things. I also cut too close to the edge or something because it's fairly messed up and fraying. Luckily I pretty much always wear my sleeves rolled up. I think next time I'll use the tower placket drafting/construction from here.
Another issue I have is with the front yoke/facings. I really hate facings (too much extra bulk) - but I can understand why they're used here. The shirt doesn't have a collar stand, the front edges get folded in on themselves to create the button bands - and the front yokes help seal all that up nicely. I'm not sure how to eliminate the front yoke (I guess by drafting a collar stand?) - so I'll probably do this again next time... but I won't like it! :D
The fabric I used is a Robert Kaufman chambray in burgundy with little white dots all over it - and I love it! I bought it several months ago with some Kaufman denim with no real plans for it, and it works perfectly here. I will say that the fabric gets pretty wrinkly - so bear that in mind if you use it in the future (I've had to iron it every time I wear it *yuck* and I think it may have shrunk a wee bit).
I love this shirt so much - and I have some plans for future versions: sleeveless, lengthened into a dress, and shortened a bit for a more "standard" length button up shirt (this runs a wee bit long).
