I have been whipping out the basics lately (since reality tells me that's all I actually wear), and this boat neck Lark Tee by Grainline Studio is a perfect example. I sized up one size to a 6 and did everything exactly as instructed (including length). I made the long-sleeved version so I can push up the sleeves or wear them long.
I am still a bit undecided about whether I like this particular shape in an oversized version. I've learned recently that it's best to wear a garment a few times to fully determine whether or not I like my modifications (or lack thereof). In this case, I'm finding the neckline to maybe be a little toooo open, and maybe the length is a little long? But that's the great thing about making one's clothes...I can't really alter the neckline at this point, but I can certainly cut off the hem, take in a little at the side seams and shorten it an inch or two. But like I said, I need to wear it a few more times. It really depends on which pants I'm wearing as to whether or not I prefer my tops long or short.
Pictured here are the Birkin Flares, and since they have a high waist, the length of the shirt is accentuated. When I look through my Pinterest boards, I see that many of my pinned looks include very long shirts. Maybe I'm just not used to it as I've always favored shirts that hit right at the high hip.
The fabric is my ideal striped jersey (slightly heavy-weight, completely opaque, great recovery) from Bolt here in Portland. I picked it and a few other striped knits from the remnant bin, and they are heavenly. They're complementing my newly discovered affinity for stripes, solids and neutrals in the best way.
The picture above shows a bit of excess length. AND THAT I MATCH MY STRIPES LIKE A BOSS. Sometimes.
I do love that when I size up, I don't have pulling under my arms on the back. I have finally determined that I have wide, sloping shoulders despite having a small bust. That makes for some interesting fit challenges since my bust measurement often puts me into a higher size than necessary otherwise. Perhaps I need to start considering a small bust adjustment on more fitted garments. Or a boob job. You know, daily decisions.
This shirt has already made it into regular rotation, and I'll be making more! I love sewing (and wearing) basic knits!
