I was lucky to be a tester for the Friday Pattern Company Wilder Gown. In a move in keeping with the rest of my wardrobe I opted for the top version rather than the dress (I don't really do high femme/floatness).
Its a simple but impactful make really suited to the use of more wriggly fabrics as there's not a huge amount of fabric manipulation (yes, wriggly is my technical term!).
I quite like the look of the top with the neckline open but while I'm pleased with the top, I'm not so keen on my use of the fabric.
Its a green chiffon with pseudo animal print but its the placement of the repeat on the front I don't like. It makes it feel a little tie dye to me. This was one of my first forays into sewing with chiffon and I'm a lot happier about this item of clothing than my previous tries.
I used 10/70 on both my overlocker and sewing machine (somehow I feel like I deserve a medal for the effort!).
I doubted the process once or twice during my make as the length of the sleeves seemed too long. I waited until the end to hem them but it all came right when the collar gathered up at the end.
It's a raglan sleeved woven pattern. There's been a few minor tweaks between my tester version and the released one but I think they're minor improvements. Not so noticeable that I'd bother reprinting the pattern
I hemmed by folding the overlocked edges twice and stitching down. I had also overlocked each pattern piece before assembly as it was a little fray-y.
The pattern repeat looks a little more obvious here. I'm not sure if the issues are just in my head or if its a 'in real life' issue that isn't as obvious in photos.
Excuse the ticket in my back jeans pocket and the usual terrible photos (the lighting really didn't work with me this time).
Pattern: Friday Pattern Company Wilder Gown (top version)
Fabric: I think the chiffon was a pattern swap with the lovely Gillian at Fabric Hoarders when we have occasional fabric and pattern swaps.
Size/alterations: I made a straight size 2X as those I didn't fit in the waist sizes there's not much shaping at the waist so I knew I'd be fine. The 5/8" seam allowance was a little much and I'd either be tempted to french seam the top next time (minus the centre front seam) or to reduce the seam allowance before I cut. Though knowing me I won't do either of these and might remember to trim the seams before finishing them.
Next version: Yes, there'll be one. I have a lovely black and white square chiffon I'm keen to try. I think I'll lengthen the body a little and as I said, cut less out for the seams. But other than that it (and changing my needles!), it should be a quick make.
Tester info, in case you're interested: I was given a tester version of this top (and the final pdf pattern) with not expectation to review post testing or provide photos. I was also offered another pattern from their collection but as I fall into the plus sizing and only the new patterns I wanted to purchase I've also tested for I've given that bonus a miss (I really couldn't be bothered grading up these days unless I can help it). I really like the pattern so I've given you my actual opinion. I don't know the designer personally but she seems really nice and open to feedback. She's been fun to test for as the turn around times are reasonable (about a month) and keeps communication open.
