I am in love with this SeaChange Jumpsuit from Pattern Emporium. It’s the first jumpsuit I have ever sewn and it has been on my ‘To Make’ list all summer. I finally decided to just ‘jump right in’ and make it when I found this lovely batik print.
I wanted a print but was also looking for something with a darker background. When scanning the fabric section of one of my favourite charity shops I saw this and knew instantly it would be perfect. It checked several boxes for me. It had a striking design, the colours were neutral and not to bright, it would be a perfect fabric for a wearable muslin and as it was from a charity shop it is more sustainable. Perfect!
I love big bold prints when I see them on others, but still struggle myself with feeling confident wearing them myself. Being 6 feet tall, I feel that if a print is too big or too bright its too much fabric and looks overwhelming. I know that isn’t the case, so I continue to challenge myself with trying new prints and colour. I feel that this particular jumpsuit pattern combined with this print is a winning combination! I am really pleased I took the chance.
The SeaChange Jumpsuit is designed with a generous relaxed fit in mind. The styling allows for lots of drape throughout the hips and legs. The pull-on design eliminates the need for a zipper which also makes it a great pattern for beginning sewers. The dropped crotch helps to add comfort and versatility to an already elegant pattern. It can be worn free flowing or you can add ties as I did, or a sash for even more waist definition.
I made a size 14 jumpsuit, sizing down one size based on my upper bust measurement. I graded the pattern from a size 14 to a size 10 through the hips. I added 2” to lengthen the bodice and drop the crotch line enough the pattern remained a relaxed fit on my longer torso. The only other modifications I made were to narrow the bottom of leg so that the pattern would fit on the limited amount of fabric I had and I added 1” to the tall length option. The leg is still very wide and allows for flow and drape that is definitely part of the styling.
I chose the closed back without a fastening and fixed narrow straps. The pattern offers so many choices to ensure the right fit and styling for everyone. There are wider strap options available, adjustable straps or Rouleau loop options. You can add side pockets or go without. Depending on the fabric that you are using each option offers a way to personalize your pattern for the bit styling and fit.
The jumpsuit is also available in a romper style and has tall options already included. Pattern Emporium is the only company I have found so far that includes tall options in their patterns. As simple as this may be to do, I am always impressed by the fact that this a consideration. Tall options are rarely offered in the fashion world.
I highly recommend this pattern. Even if, like me, you have never made a jumpsuit this is a perfect place to start. There will be more jumpsuits in my world. I am already looking for a drapery black fabric as a black jumpsuit will a be classic, elegant wardrobe essential.
After all… There is Sew Much To Design
Happy Sewing,
Lou Sheffer
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