BLOUSE & SKIRT | SIMPLICITY 3108 & BUTTERICK 6713
I’m back with another new outfit added to my wardrobe. While I need garments for every category and lifestyle event, I really want pieces that are multi-functional and interchangeable. The blouse and skirt in today’s blog post can be worn through multiple seasons and for lots of occasions. If you have the blouse pattern and haven’t sewn it up yet, please read further because I had some issues with what I thought would be quick and easy for me. Let’s get into the details.
Blouse Pattern Information | Butterick 6713
BUTTERICK 6713 has close fitting tops with center front and center back slits at the neckline; raglan sleeve variations, stand-up collar and stitched hems. View A has a flared sleeve with slit. The sleeve on View B is gathered with buttoned cuffs. View C has elastic at the end of the sleeve, forming a self ruffle. I sewed View B.
The pattern was released in 2019 and is currently available in PDF option only in sizes 6 – 22. The company rates the pattern as easy, and I disagree only because of the instructions on the collar. I consider myself an advanced sewist, and the instructions for the collar were not helpful at all. I read them over and over, then I studied the line drawings carefully. I had already read the entire pattern in advance to prepare for sewing. Usually when I don’t understand instructions, I look ahead to future steps to see what should have happened in previous steps. I even checked PATTERN REVIEW to see what others were saying about the pattern. There were five reviews and only one person mentioned not liking the collar. The others said it was an easy construction. Here I am wondering why it was challenging for me. Hmmm…
One thing I should have done that the pattern doesn’t include is interfacing in the standup collar. I don’t understand why they chose to eliminate that step and I definitely should have done it anyway with my delicate fabric.
Skirt Pattern Information | Simplicity 3108
SIMPLICITY 3108 is a Vest, Skirt, and Pant pattern by American Sewing Guild. The vest is semi-fitted, unlined, with princess seams, front button opening and flaps. The skirt is flared and gored with machine stitched hems. Views B and C (skirt & pants) have a contoured waistband, invisible zipper and stitched hem. The wide leg pants are fitted through the hip and have side front pockets.
The pattern is rated as AVERAGE. I would probably agree since there are details in the pants and vest construction that a beginner may not be comfortable with yet. However, I found the skirt to be pretty simple and beginner-friendly. If you have basic sewing skills, you should be able to complete the skirt.
Fabric Information
The fabric recommendations for the skirt are Boucle, Cotton Twill, Denim, and Linen Blends. I used this beautiful HEIRLOOM FLORAL PRINT ECO-VERO VISCOSE CREPE from Core Fabrics. The colors are Cream/Ochre/Green/Rose. The fabric has a lovely drape and feels great. The fabrics in today’s post were sent to me at not cost as part of my monthly collaboration with Core Fabrics. I am using affiliate links, so if you purchase any of the products listed here, I will receive a small commission on qualifying items. Also, you get 15% off when you use my code: ANITA15 on your entire purchase (excluding sale items).
The fabric recommendations for the blouse are Crepe de Chine, Charmeuse, Crepe, Double Georgette, Challis. I used a luxurious DRAPEY DOBBY TEXTURED MODAL from Core Fabrics in the color caramel. It is super soft, very delicate and has a lovely drape. Due to its delicate nature, you must handle the fabric with care. It snags easily, so make sure your nails are nice and smooth on the edges. Also, be sure to follow the care instructions when pre-treating to avoid damaging the fabric.
Both patterns require interfacing; for the blouse sleeve cuffs and skirt waistband. Since my favorite resource for quality interfacing is no longer available, I’ve been testing interfacings from Core Fabrics. Since the Modal fabric is very lightweight, I used a MIDWEIGHT WOVEN INTERFACING. Now, you may ask why I used midweight with a lightweight fabric. The interfacing actually feels like a lightweight and it was the perfect choice for the cuffs so they wouldn’t be too crisp. This interfacing provided just the amount of stability needed to accommodate the cuffs while still maintaining a delicate look and feel overall.
I used a RECYCLED LIGHTWEIGHT NON-WOVEN INTERFACING for the waistband on the skirt. Because this interfacing is non-woven, it has more stability than a woven. Choosing a lightweight non-woven interfacing gave the skirt waistband a stable but soft finish. Since the fabric is lightweight, I didn’t want to go too thick on the interfacing.
Inside the Garment
I used my Baby Lock Chorus sewing machine to sew both garments, and the Baby Lock Vibrant Serger to finish seam allowances. I would prefer French seams next time if I sew another garment with the Modal. The serger seam allowances don’t look good to me with this fabric. I do believe seams on delicate fabrics are prettier and stronger with French seam finishes.
Notions Information
The only notion required for the skirt is a 7″ INVISIBLE ZIPPER (comes in 8″). Two hooks & eyes and two 5/8″ buttons will be needed for View B of the blouse. Of course you will need thread and I used this GÜTERMANN ALL PURPOSE RECYCLED THREAD from Core Fabrics in the colors Copper and Whipped Butter. One thing I love about their website is how they coordinate notions on the same listings with their fabrics. It’s really helpful to choose your thread colors by their suggestions because they see the threads next to the fabrics in person. I always follow their suggestions and it works out perfectly every time.
Alterations Information
Let’s start with the fact that I sewed a muslin (practice garment) for the blouse because I wanted to test the construction on the front twist. I used a lightweight bedsheet and it turned out great. I did not sew any of the finishing details, just the raw collar piece attached to the neckline. Different fabrics perform differently, so the cotton bedsheet was more structured at the neckline than the Drapey Modal. I should have interfaced the collar piece since my fabric was significantly more drapey than the test fabric. This is why it’s recommended that you sew your muslin with a similar fabric. Since that’s not always possible, I focus more on the fabric weights matching between muslin and main fabric.
I had to remove some of the shoulder curve on the sleeves because it created an unsightly point on top of the shoulders, almost like it had been sitting on a hanger for a long time. Unfortunately, I didn’t take photos of that step, but I used my hip curve ruler to draw in a curve that was less prominent right onto the fabric.
The skirt isn’t true to size. I’m currently cutting Size 8 for most skirt patterns. However, the finished waist measurement on this pattern is 25″ for Size 8. My current waist measurement fluctuates between 29″ and 30″. That would put me in a Size 14 (finished measurement 29 1/2″. No Way! Instead of measuring the pattern pieces, which is the smart thing to do, I went with it. And sure enough the skirt was humongous. But the strange thisng is that afterwards I tissue fitted the waistband pieces to my body and they fit. It could have been some mistake on my part. So I kept taking in the seams all around until I got something that fit. I can’t even tell you how much I took in but it was a lot. Just to be safe, sew a muslin to check for fit or measure the pattern pieces before cutting fabric.
I moved the side zipper to the center back because I prefer it that way. To do that, I added 5/8 to center back pattern piece and cut two, instead of cutting one on the fold. I will add side seam pockets to the skirt next time.
Styling Options
I’m very pleased with how the entire outfit looks on my body. I’ve styled it with a large belt that I think really pulls the two pieces together. I’ve paired it with a pair of open-toe, taupe pumps. I’m wearing gold teardrop earrings and a gold bracelet that says “PEACE”. And to top it off, I’m carrying a caramel colored crossbody bag.
The length and opening of the slit in the back of the blouse was a surprise to me. The line drawing makes it look small and insignificant. But I like it.
I plan to wear the pieces together and separately with other garments that will be added to my new wardrobe. I think the skirt will look amazing in the fall with boots and a turtleneck sweater. And the blouse can be paired with a pencil skirt, jeans and trousers.
What do you think?
I would love to hear your feedback. Scroll to the very bottom of this page to leave a comment.
Thank you for stopping by today! 💕
Other Related Links
- Sewing Project Checklist
- Learn to SEW Course
- Baby Lock Soprano
- Baby Lock Vibrant
- Baby Lock Euphoria
- Baby Lock Chorus
(DISCLAIMER: This blog post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission on qualifying purchases. All opinions in this post are my own.).)
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This Post Has 29 Comments
This is gorgeous!
You definitely know your style; the colors and styling look great on you. I can imagine you using each piece with other items to expand your wardrobe. The colors are so versatile and can be worn during multiple seasons. Great planning! Thanks for sharing the sewing details as well as your wardrobe concerns. I remember your blog about purchasing good fabric and the difference it can make. You are demonstrating the difference one can expect in the beautiful outfits you share. Thanks so much!!
Thank you so much, De. I’m so glad you enjoyed the blog post.
Another beautiful outfit. Love it.
Beautiful clothing!!! I love the print fabric you used for the skirt and the weave of the solid-color blouse fabric makes it interesting – these are great items together and will work so well with other items – really wonderful, versatile pieces. I appreciate your very detailed review and tips about the shoulders of the blouse, interfacing choices, seam finishing choices, etc. I’m thinking the print of the skirt works equally well for spring or fall, which is so nice – sometimes we have items that are just so season-specific taking up a lot of room in our closet when they really only get used once or twice a year.
Mary Jean, I agree with you about the skirt being multi-seasonal. I love that and look forward to wearing it in the fall. I’m really glad to know that you appreciate the detailed blog post.
Anita, your outfit is gorgeous! I love the floral fabric you chose for the skirt! You are beautiful and classy, as always. I love to sew, as sewing gives me a place of peace and comfort! A warm fuzzy feeling! Do you know what I mean? I have been a follower of yours for a few years now. I enjoy your work!
I know exactly what you mean, Patricia, because I get that same feeling. Thank you for following my sewing journey for so long. I’m really happy to have you here.
Excellent!
You look stunning! What a beautiful sewer you are:)
Pauline from Belgium
Thank you so much.
Hi Miss Anita – Fabric truly make the garment. I saw the skirt pattern in a pattern haul and was not very impressed with it. But wow, the way you made this is just beautiful. Great job.
Also, didn’t you make a pussy bow blouse before? Was it the same type of fabric? I was pleasantly surprised to see the cut out in the back too. Looks very nice.
Thanks for sharing and I will put the skirt pattern on my list as soon as it’s on sale 😀
Have a great weekend!
Hi Lynette! I absolutely love the skirt and yes, I did make the pussybow blouse which can also be worn with the skirt. Yes, the skirt pattern is a great one. I look forward to making the pants and vest too.
I love all your selections both patterns and fabric. This blouse and skirt is especially smart as my granny would say!
Looking forward to what you will make for your Spring collection.
Thank you so much, Monicaa.
Thank you Anita for blogging , and all the information you share . I like it a lot .
Henny from Ontario
You’re very welcome, Henny. Thank you for being here.
Very nice. Your clothes always look as if you purchased them from a department store. 🥰 I wish I could make clothing like that. Awesome.
Thank you so much, ShaWuana! Now that’s a great compliment. ❤️
I was just wondering how you figured out the neck twist on the blouse. I had trouble with a different pattern and I wrote to Butterick for clarity.
Someone responded very quickly but just reiterated the very poor instructions. Love the blouse but afraid to try another
Butterick pattern.
I love your choice of fabrics and your willingness to share your successes and mistakes. I always say I learn more from my mistakes than I do from
my successes! Keep up the great wardrobe sewing. I don’t get to wear many dressy clothes except for church but Ilike seeing you in them. Encourages me
that taking pride in one’s appearance hasn’t disappeared,
Hi Lynne! Yes, I ALWAYS learn something from my mistakes which helps me to grow my skills. I like Butterick Patterns and haven’t had many problems with them, but this one gave me a challenge.
Ms. Anita you never cease to amaze me!!!! Another beautiful outfit and thank you so much for sharing with us. I look forward to your sewing blogs and videos all the time. It gives me such comfort and a safe space in these crazy times so thank you once more!!
Oh my goodness, Kendra! When you said, “a safe space,” my heart leaped because that’s exactly what I want people to feel when they come here. Thank you so much for sharing that with me. You should see the smile on my face.
You look so beautiful in this outfit. I love it.
What type of fabric is the skirt??
Thank you, Robin. The fabric information is in the post.
Look at you! You definitely have an eye to pick out fabric choices
Thank you so much. Picking the fabrics is so much fun.
Hi Anita
Okay, once again I am in love with the fact that you are so willing to share your “mistakes” and re-considerations with us. I often say to myself that I should have known to do_____ but I followed the pattern and was disappointed that I did not go with my prior knowledge. Now about the outfit. I love it. I often use your garments as a sounding board to mix and match items in my closet and I did it again this time. I have an orange blouse that I am having trouble coordinating. So now I know a beautiful bold print would be gorgeous with that “stuck in my closet” orange blouse. Your health care journey was one that I followed. Your outfit is fabulous but, you know what, you look gorgeous in the outfit. I so enjoy your posts. Keep them coming. Barb
Barb, you make my heart smile. Thank you so much for coming back and enjoying my blog posts. I absolutely love sharing my experiences along the sewing journey. When I hear that others are inspired in any way, it really makes my heart happy. Thank you for being here and have fun styling that orange blouse. 🤗