ROSCOE BLOUSE | PATTERN REVIEW
Raise your hand if you’re a Bohemian Girl! Hahaha! Today I’m sharing my Roscoe Blouse Muslin & Pattern Review. I’m not a Boho girl but I’m really digging this look.
When I finished the top and put it on my dress form, I wasn’t feeling it at all. I saw quite a few ladies in the sewing community rocking this top and it looks amazing on them.
When I began my journey into sewing Indie Patterns, I purchased this one from True Bias Patterns.
ROSCOE BLOUSE MUSLIN
Before starting my sewing projects, I usually visit the Pattern Review website to see what others are saying about the pattern I’ve chosen. I love this resource because reading reviews from others really does help to alert me of any trouble areas or issues with the pattern. Many sewists also share solutions to the problems they encounter.
Almost every review indicated that, although it’s an oversized style, the pattern has excessive ease. I already knew this because I checked the finished measurements in the instruction guide.
I read all the reviews and saw that other sewists were downsizing 2 – 3 sizes. Initially, I had planned to go down two sizes, but after hearing everyone else’s issues, I decided to cut three sizes down.
This is only my third time sewing a True Bias pattern, and after the first two, I’ve determined that I’m a size 8 in their patterns. Nevertheless, I still like to check the finished measurements and decide from the chart if I will stick with the 8 or increase/decrease based on my desired fit.
I chose to cut size 2 for the Roscoe Blouse based on the finished measurements. The finished bust measurement for size 8 is 48″. My bust measurement is 36″, so that would give me 12″ of ease. The finished measurement for size 2 is 45″, which gives me 9″ of ease.
I still wasn’t sure how that much ease would look on me, so I decided to sew a muslin (practice garment) first. The pattern calls for fabrics with drape. However, I decided to use this fabric that’s been sitting in my collection for many years.
I didn’t have any plans for it, and because it’s so thin, I didn’t think I could do much with it anyway. As pretty as it is, I decided to use it for practice with the idea that I could still wear the top if it turned out well. That way it would be a wearable muslin.
Typically, when I sew a muslin, I only baste together the main parts to check fit, then transfer any changes that I make onto the pattern paper. But since I chose to make this a wearable muslin (one that I would wear), I stitched it together all the way through.
Also, when sewing muslins, I choose a fabric of similar weight and content as the fashion fabric I plan to use. This practice gives me a better idea of how the fashion fabric will actually look with the design. However, this time, I didn’t follow that rule. Seeing the top on others gave me a pretty good ideas of what it would look like in a drapey fabric.
Click HERE for Rayon Challis Fabric Options
The fashion fabric that I plan to use for this top is a Rayon Challis which has the appropriate amount of drape for this style of garment. Unfortunately, I didn’t have a similar type fabric in my collection that I wanted to use as a muslin. Therefore, I went with what you see here.
Another unfortunate circumstance is that I don’t know what type of fabric I used. As I mentioned above, it’s been sitting in my fabric collection for a really long time and I don’t remember where I purchased it from. It reminds me of a gauze because it’s really thin and has that type of feel.
After sewing the muslin and trying it on, I determined that the size 2 was a good fit for me. I’ll be making one alteration that I will share in the pattern review below.
Roscoe Blouse Pattern Reveiw
The Roscoe Pattern comes with a blouse and two different dress lengths. It’s designed with raglan sleeves, center front slit and ties at the neckline. The dresses have ruffles at the bottom.
The designer suggests lightweight fabrics that have movement. There are 7 pattern pieces for the top and 9 pieces for the dress. The sewing skill level required to complete the dress is Advanced Beginner.
The instructions in the guide are very easy to follow and there is also a written Sew Along on the True Bias website. You will also find several pattern hacks to this pattern on the website to make it even more versatile.
As mentioned above, there is a lot of ease included so if you plan to sew this pattern, be sure to follow the finished measurements chart to choose your size.
Since I went down three sizes, the sleeves were much shorter than they would have been had I gone with a size eight. But I actually like the shorter length, so I will leave them this way when I sew the next blouse.
However, since the sleeve is shorter, the band at the end of the sleeve is too tight where it hits my arm. It was designed to fit near the wrist and my arm is obviously larger above that area. Therefore, I will increase the length on the arm bands next time.
As you can see, there are many styling options. I had lots of fun pairing the top with the bottoms I have in my closet. I used the leftover fabric to sew a head scarf. This leveled up the boho style. I cut a 36″ x 54″ rectangle and hemmed the raw edges.
All the bottoms I paired with the top are ready-to-wear, except the white denim pants. I sewed them last year using Simplicity 8956. You can see the Denim Pants Blog Post for all the details.
I’ll be sewing another Roscoe Blouse as I had planned, but I will surely continue to wear this muslin because it’s wearable and cute. I may even remove the sleeve bands and apply new ones for more comfort. Yeah, I think I’ll do that.
Now, I’m curious to know what you think about this top. My favorite look is the first look I shared above with the dark jeans. There are so many ways to style this top. How about a pencil skirt and high heels. Which styling option do you like best? How would you style it? Share your comments below.
Thank you for stopping by.
Anita
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This Post Has 70 Comments
BEAUTIFUL AS ALWAYS. LOVE THE HEAD WRAP MATCH. THE WHITE PANTS ARE A KNOCK OUT. YOU SHOW OUT EVERY TIME YOU MAKE A POST. I LOVE IT. YOU’RE SO ENCOURAGING.
Thank you so much!
I love your posts, Anita! I’m about to tackle this pattern and your review (as always) is incredibly helpful!
HI My Beautiful Sis
Once again you have ace this thing. You are a breath of fresh air. How are you going to make something you aint Digging, and make me fall in love wirh it.FLY FLY FLY GIRL!!!
I LOVE U FROM MY SOUL.
Helen Mendoza
Oh my goodness, Helen! You just blessed my entire heart. Thank you so much for your uplifting message. I love YOU too, my sister!
Hi Anita
I just want u to knw i love tha bohe
Hi Anita,
I love the the top and the many ways you styled it. my favorite style is with the Simplicity 8956 denim pant. Beautiful look on you.
Thank you so much, Carla! Yes, I love it with the white pants too.
AMAZING!
I have a RTW tunic and the tie ends have beads on them so that would just give it more Boho vibe if you choose. I wear hipslung belts because they elongate my short torso. It’s a different look you could experiment with.
Awesome! I actually thought about adding beads to the ends of the ties. I also made a sweater cardigan years ago and added beads to the ties. Yes, definitely a boho vibe with the beads. Thank you for stopping by.
The muslin fabric looks comfortable
I like the belt view. Looks sassy.
Thank you, Diana! The fabric is very comfortable.
I like the “top”. You’ve chosen various styles to wear it & they all look good, I prefer the relaxed look but all these go well rather you dress it up or dress it down. I do like your “muslin” fabric; I find sometimes the muslin fabric is more a “winner” than the fashion fabric. I’m sure both will look great.
Thank you so much, Troyjennene! Yes, this fabric is gorgeous.
I love this “TOP” . You have given great ways and/or ideas for it’s versatility! Will there be a video soon for it?
Thank you so much, Devoria! I haven’t decided yet if there will be a tutorial.
Anita,
I love this blouse! I also like how you styled it. You look great. I live in Louisiana, and the material you used for this blouse will transition well in this climate. We are still experiencing temperatures above 90 degrees (muggy too). Take care Anita.
Thank you, Ramona! Yes, this top with a super thin fabric is perfect for very hot weather. Nothing clinging to the body and breathable fabric are a great combination for above 90 temperatures.
Okay Anita, that boho style really looks good on you! I like the belted look the most!
Hi Gwendolyn! It seems that the belted look and the white denim pants combo are the top favorites here.
My favorite is the dark jeans, I believe you could make a potato sack look stylish! I loved your interview with the ASG, your spirit is beautiful, your faith is strong and always shines through, this platform is definitely part of your calling, you’re ministering and touching lives globally. I look forward to what’s coming up next ?
Oh my goodness, Charisse! Thank you so much for your encouraging message. I really appreciate your support.
This top is one I would probably not pick at first glance, but You styled it nicely. The jeans looked nice although I liked the white bottoms best. Thanks for sharing this.
Hi Nancy! Thank you. I’m glad you like the styling.
Hi Anita, I love the blouse on you. I think my favorite is with the belt. I can see it with a jean skirt as well! I enjoy when I see emails from you as I know you must have sewed something new. ??
Hi Carol! It’s so cool that most people like it with the belt. Would you believe I almost didn’t insert those photos. That’s why there are only two at the end of the post. Yes, I can see it with a denim skirt too. Happy to know you look forward to my emails.
Loved your interview with the Sewing Guild. You are so open and honest about your faith. You are an inspiration to others and especially sewists of color. Continue to do what you do!
Oh Sheryl, I’m so glad you watched the interview. Thank you for your support.
Hi Anita, I like it with & without the belt. I would like to see a picture of you with the white long skirt that you purchased. The top is really cute. I am a fan of the head pieces. Too cute…As always, Thank you…✂️???
Hi Ros! Oooohhh, you know I will be wearing it with my lace skirt one day. I looked at it when I was pulling bottoms to style to top. You may see it later. I love head pieces too. I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
I like the 3/4 sleeves. Long sleeves might look frumpy, and you’re not a frumpy woman. All the pairings look awesome….
Deborah, you are so right. I’m a big fan of 3/4 sleeves, especially in warmer months. I don’t think I would have liked this with long sleeves. At least not with this fabric. A fabric with more drape, like rayon challis, may be okay.
Love the top with the dark jeans (first picture) I also like the belted look on you. Very classy. You are the best! ?
Thank you so much, Jane! I love the first look with the dark jeans too. I’m trying to embrace the belted look LOL!
That blouse is so cute, especially with blue jeans or the long white pants. Choosing the smaller size pattern makes it dressier.
I have a tip for the ends of ties. Sew a few inches at the ends, right sides together, turn & press. Then proceed with blouse construction. It is nearly impossible to get tidy tie ends unless this procedure is followed.
Thank you so much Carol! I really appreciate your feedback for the tie ends because mine look a hot mess. LOL! I will use that tip on my next top.
Anita, I love the blouse and the head wrap. The fabric you choose is beautiful. Love how you show the blouse’s versatility.
Thank you so much, Trish! It’s a very versatile blouse.
All of these looks are fantastic, Anita!! Great top.
Hi Anita
I love your choices of pattern, the bohemian look is you. The information you have regarding the size adjustments is awesome. I also love the head wrap you have on. Did u have a pattern for that? It looks simply elegant. I have a similar blouse pattern will try the look. Have to create my own wrap.
P.S. traveling to Nevada next week, will wave as i passed by your city.
Thanks for sharing
Blessings
Hi Joselina! Thank you so much. Yes, have fun making your top. I included the information on how I made the wrap in the post.
Anita…..this blouse is beautiful, the fabric is everything. I do like all the looks you paired with it, as they each have a different vibe. I do understand about having the blouse a bit longer with leggings when in public. I also agree that seeing it on the dress form is totally different from having it on a human form. I appreciate you speaking again about wearing ease, etc. I have definitely been looking at that more lately. Thank you as always.
Hey Lynette! You are so very welcome.
Anita,
I really enjoy the way you style your makes. I think we often develop “tunnel vision” with our clothes and fail to see them as things to be both dressed up AND down.
My two favorite looks you’ve created with this boho blouse are: 1 – paired with the white pants (dressed up) and 2 – belted (dressed down).
Nice work!
Thank you so much, Alli! I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. It looks like your two choices are the most popular here so far.
Hello Anita. Love the bohemian blouse ? looks so comfortable .All the ways you have shown how to wear are so nice. I cannot pick a favorite
Thank you so much, Dar! It is very comfortable.
Oh! Loving the head wrap also.
Thank you, Peggy! That wrap pulled it all together.
I really.like this top and I agree it’s better untied. A V neck is so flattering. I think my favorite is with the long white pants but the top is.so versatile that they are all great!
Yes, Sue, it is so versatile and I love that about the top. I plan to get lots of wear from it.
Thank you Darlene. Yes, I like it with the white pants too.
Just beautiful. I love the styling ideas.
Thank you, Carmen!
Hi Anita I hope u r well. I love bohemian and I love that top and the styling options. I love the loose fit even with the belt and I’m not a belt person. Thanks so much for sharing. God bless.
Hopefully one day I can learn to sew like you! Your sewing looks professional on all levels! You are inspirational ! Keep doing what you’re doing, and I’ll keep trying…thank you!
Oh, Dot, you can do this. The more I sew, the better I become. Lots of learning and practicing. Thank you so much for your compliment. Practice as much as you can.
This looks great Anita!! You look great!! I love your message. Thank you for the inspiration!
I love this blouse on you and your post is spot on time-wise! I have a RTW blouse just like yours that I love and was just telling myself that I needed to try to find a pattern. Looking forward to seeing your make in the fashion fabric.
Thank you, Carrie! Have fun making your blouse.
It def looks better on you than on the model! You certainly rock it!
I’m really looking forward to making it again.
I love all the different ways you styled the top. I think I will try to make it. You have inspired me to sew again. By the way you are so pretty in whatever you wear!
Thank you so much, Brenda! I’m so happy to hear that you’re inspired.
So many jewels!!! I’m so surprised by the looks that turned out to be my favs! I LOVE the dressed up look with the wide leg white pants, the belted jean look, the white shorts and the buttoned-up skinny jeans. I’m not much of a Boho girl because I’ve very top heavy and the looser tops like these often tend to hang off my bust in a tent-like fashion and I look much bigger than I am. Im now considering this top in a satin with the wide leg pants. Great post Anita!
Awesome Sulayne! I’m so happy to hear that you like so many of the looks. I think the belted look would be great for ladies who are top heavy. Have fun sewing your top if you decide to make it.
Thank you for posting! You did a beautiful job. I also appreciate the heads up on sizing. I’ve been thinking about purchasing the Roscoe pattern and your review really helped clarify things.
You’re very welcome, Sheila! I’m glad this post gave you some clarity before purchasing. Have fun sewing your top if you decide to make it.
SEW CUTE Anita! It looks Great on you. Thank you for sharing. Happy Sewtember!
Thank you so much Dara! I just love it!
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