The 80's Called...Butterick 5753

I’m pretty sure I didn’t make a top that looked this 80’s even back in the 80’s.  This pink and black tissue weight knit has been calling my name for some time now so I paired it with a similar weight black knit and went on the hunt for a pattern.

Originally I wanted something like Simplicity 8016 and still think this would make up great.  Simplicity 1199 is also an adorable pattern but would be better in a heavier knit.

I ran across Butterick 5753 (it's been out for years) and thought it would be fun and different than anything I ever wear.

It took longer to cut out the top than it did to sew it because there are three front and three back pieces.  The layout required some creativity to make the pieces fit on the fabrics.  I prewashed both pieces and there was some shrinkage so if you plan on making this top I’d recommend buying 1/8 yard more fabric of each to make things easier.

I made this top just like the instructions except for two things:

1. I added a neckband finish instead of the folded and stitched hem at the neck the pattern called for (I’ll never understand why patterns have us fold down a neck because it just never looks good.)

2. There are 2 pleats on each side of the top.  I folded the pleats down instead of up as the instructions called for because it looked better.  I think I’ll add one more pleat on each side.

One sleeve has a notch finish that I didn’t notice in the drawing.  It was a little persnickety so I used 5/8” wide strips of knit fusible interfacing on the edge of the hem to help stabilize.  I folded up the hem and used a twin needle to finish.  

I’m not sure I’ll make this pattern again because it’s so distinctive but it’ll be fun to wear.
I have 2 more summer projects in the queue but already I'm thinking about fall sewing.  Are you?