Each issue, Simply Sewing readers share their unique sewing style with a gorgeous garment make!
I was really excited to be one of the first to make the new Emma blouse pattern from Atelier Jupe. The pattern comes with a range of great features that create a romantic yet contemporary look, and the blouse is wearable for all seasons and occasions. It has beautiful wide sleeves with long cuffs which are currently in style, but also completely timeless, which is perfect. There are so many details to admire on the Emma blouse and these are also a great way to build on your existing bank of sewing skills. I fell in love with the playful Victorian collar and the pleats in the front - so in vogue! The blouse is an elegant piece of clothing and I feel like it’s going to be a wardrobe staple for me. It is so versatile and easy to mix and match. I can pair it with classic trousers for work, and for the evening a skirt or skinny faux-leather trousers. I love a trip to the opera, so there are loads of ways I could glam up the look for a sophisticated look too. But if your style is more casual and comfortable, you can simply wear it with a pair of jeans and trainers for an equally chic look.
THE PATTERN
The paper pattern comes with an A5 booklet with full sewing instructions in English, French and Dutch. It contains essential tips and instructions along with illustrated images, so it is easy to follow, step by step.
FABRIC CHOICE
Over the last few years, I have been drawn more and more to colourful viscoses for dresses or jumpsuits, but I’ve never used a bold print for a blouse or top. I am so fond of this Retro Vibe viscose as it feels as though it’s midway between silk and cotton. The soft fabric has a wonderful, fluid drape and is breathable, so it’s ideal to wear in both warm and cold seasons. Every Atelier Jupe fabric is 100% viscose, OEKO-TEX and FSC certified and is printed in factories in Italy or France. The one I selected was made in Italy, which is extra special to me as I couldn’t be prouder of my Italian heritage. I can imagine that the Emma blouse could also be made from lightweight fabric such as a linen, fine cotton or silk. I always pre-wash my fabric as some viscose may shrink a little before cutting. I followed the instructions on Atelier Jupe’s website and hand-washed at 30°. You can also use your washing machine (on a cycle without a spin).
THE MAKING PROCESS
I have made a few viscose dresses with similar sewing elements such as cuffs and frilled details in the past, but this was my first blouse. I began tracing the pattern as the hard copy of the Emma blou
