It’s Playtime :-)

Earlier this month Oliver+S released their fall 2013 patterns and the Playtime dress, tunic and leggings really caught my eyes (of course, it wasn’t the only one, but let’s take them one at a time).

Usually, Oliver+S patterns have quite a few (clever) details that take sewing for children into another level, but the Playtime pattern features a (great) simple design and that’s really why I find it a “must-have”.

The dress/tunic features a basic loose-fitting style, that I find perfect to be layered with almost anything (pants, leggings (pattern also included), shorts and even skirts) and fitted to almost every occasion (just pick your fabric accordingly). Yet don’t be mistaken, as most things in life, sometimes simple is better.

And obviously, Oliver+S has the bonus of Liesl flawless instructions, so I knew I couldn’t get it wrong.

I love the timeless lines of the tunic/dress as I’ve been looking for a similar Japanese pattern for quite a while.

I ordered the pdf version (which I highly recommended it, specially if it will be shipped internationally because of the shipping costs) and, in a blink of an eye, I managed to sew the tunic version with just 1-meter of fabric (it’s a size 5).

I used a Liberty print from eBay (name unknown. Enid, maybe?) which was quite a deal (this was 1/3 of the retail Liberty price, shipping included).

For adding interest, the pattern calls for contrasting stitching around the neck and back, which I’m quite sure would look very nice (specially if you play a bit with it, like Liesl suggested in this pattern introductory post). However, I have to confess, I couldn’t bear to do it. I used a similar thread for my stitching so no contrast for me. Maybe next time …

It turned out exactly how as expected: classic design and with loose enough to add a lace blouse underneath when it gets colder.

If you’re looking for a basic pattern that would be perfect for showing a beautiful/favorite print, this may be the one.

As expected, the instructions were great and the fit was perfect on my girl. I can’t get enough of the skirt gathers at the front …

and back …

Unfortunately, my little girl was not as cooperative as to model it (the fact that it’s still too hot for fall clothes might have been used as an excuse).

Ops, did I also mentioned it has pockets?

Well, fall sewing season is just about to start around (despite the summer weather outside and my model mood). And I’m pretty sure, there will be more Playtime (tunics and dresses) to come.

And that’s a promise 🙂

Happy sewing,

xx Ana Sofia