Nani Iro in Wonderland
My linen and Nani Iro Alice Top hasn’t been in Wonderland, but it’s been hanging out at a local train station. The things I do for you readers!
The Alice Dress/Top pattern by Tessuti probably doesn’t need much introducing. Amanda, Elizabeth, Fiona, Lisa, Rachel & Renee have all sewn and blogged swoon-worthy versions since the pattern was released two months ago.
As soon as I saw the pattern my mind was ticking over about colour/pattern blocking. In the end, I took a leaf out of Lisa’s book and added a contrast front yoke. My yoke is a lovely little piece of Nani Iro double gauze has been a long time resident of my stash. I’m so pleased it’s now taking centre stage on a very easy to wear linen top.
I purchased the pinky/orange linen (now sold out) from Tessuti in September just before I left for my overseas holiday. Linen is one of my favourite fabrics to sew and I wanted to make sure I had a suitable stash of linen for my spring/summer sewing ready to go when I got home. Any excuse right?
Others before me have pointed out that the sizing on this pattern was generous. I made the extra small (one to two sizes smaller than my usual Tessuti size) and the fit is perfect. If you are unsure of sizing, Rachel’s tip is a good one… try on the top when the yoke and gathered section are joined and alter as required at the side seams before attaching the armbands.
The pattern comes in a top and dress length. The top was almost tunic length on me (for reference I’m 165cm tall) so I removed 10cm (4 inches) from bottom before hemming.
I have a large head… 23 inches or 58 cms for those that must know… and my Alice Top only just goes over my head. I’m sure for most of you this won’t be an issue, but I’ve mentioned it for the sake of my fellow ‘big’ headed sewists.
Pattern: Tessuti’s Alice Dress/Top
Size: XS
Fabric: Linen (now sold out) from Tessuti & Nani Iro Double Gauze from deep in the stash
Alterations: Removed 10cm (4 inches) from the bottom before hemming.
Accessories: Shoes by Sonia Rykel (brought here) & vintage necklace purchased at an Antique Fair.
I love that coral colour and it looks fabulous on you. This is a definite to-do for me. It’s such a great shape with skinny jeans/pants
It’s an easy to wear top Jillian and you’re right… perfect with skinny jeans/pants… just how I wore it on Christmas Day!
Squeee! I love this with the Nani Iro! Simply gorgeous, Anna! Also, points are added for train station pics 😀
Thanks Amanda. Points graciously received. More fruit & train stations to come. I’m very behind in my blogging!
Lovely top! The color is wonderful on you!
Thanks Rebecca
I’m trying hard not to make another weather related comment (oops just did) The colour is wonderful and the pattern blocking is spot on, lovely lovely top. 🙂 Photo location is awesome!
I do love summer sewing & we are spending our holidays at home so I’m having lots of time at my machine. I’ve made three summer frocks this week. So more warm weather teasing on the blog in coming weeks (sorry!).
Love your print and colour blocking as always! You are a genius at this 🙂
Thanks Erin
I was not sure about the Alice top/dress for me, but taking 4 inches off the bottom helps seal the deal for me ordering the pattern today. Thanks for the tips re: large head and length. I too have a large head, so something to test out while sewing. Looking forward to using up some much loved pieces in the stash with the Alice 🙂
Thanks for taking the time to comment Cath. Sometimes those little changes to a pattern can make a big difference. Happy Alice Top sewing.
looking good Anna! (and of course, now you’ve got me trying to pick the train station)
I’ve been very impressed by your sewing this year, but also your wonderful photoshoots and stylin’ with the accessories. I found myself trying on a T-shirt the other day and thinking it needed some chunky beads Blogless Anna-style….
best wishes for 2015
Thanks Shelley. I do feel like I’ve hit my sewing & style stride. The coming together of those two things & my fabulous blog photographer keep me interested in blogging (rather than just instagraming!). I’ve sewn three dresses this week, which were all photographed today, so stay tuned for more of my signature style. Happy 2015 to you too… gosh we might even cross paths. Melbourne is a small town sometimes. And the train station… Hawthorn (not far from home!).
[…] pleased to report that there was just enough leftover pinky/orange linen from my Alice Top for a Ruby Top. I’m giving Tessuti’s patterns quite a work-out at the […]