I cannot decide if I like the Collette Sorbetto. It has some unusual fit issues that the Curvy Sewing Collective details in a blog comparison of the Collette Sorbetto and the Cashmerette Springfield. I experienced the same sleeve issues that Michelle mentions. Now frankly, I cut everything on the larger side, so that I can take in if I need to, whereas it is not as easy to save something cut too small. I probably need to take an alterations course. You will see that my “rogue altering” is getting a little out of hand!
You may recognize this bright green cotton fabric from my Adeline dress, that I love. It’s a regular cotton lawn and I think this top would drape a little better with a softer fabric. I think this may look better as a tank top, but even with the darts there was a little too much room in the arm holes for me.
I did add a little too much length to the sleeves to make sure I cut hem them to a length I liked. The sleeves were much larger than the armholes and caused a lot of puffy shoulder action. I’m not a fan of puffy sleeves. Also this is when I noticed the shoulders were really wide so the should seam slipped down onto my arm.
Ok, so now I have made the arm holes larger by taking in the shoulders, cut the sleeves smaller and hemmed them to a length I like. GOOD BYE, PUFFY SLEEVES! I thought it was good until I took photos. Now the neckline won’t lay flat. Then, I threw it on the floor and left it there for a few days.
When I decided to go back to it I took off the neck binding, took in the shoulder seams, and then re-sewed the neck binding back on. So here it is! In all it’s lime green glory. (Also, I cut my own bangs, and kind of regret it. As I always do.)
I kind of like the swingy shape of the bottom of the shirt. It feels a little 60’s-ish. Again, I think I made a poor fabric choice. I decided to hem the shirt with bias tape, that I made myself, and it is a little too stiff for my taste.
I have worn it to work twice now and people seem to like it. However, I feel a little like I am wearing scrubs. When I move my arms the sleeves pull the front in weird ways. I thought this was due to my alterations, but Michelle on the CSC blog had the same issue, and didn’t make my crazy alterations. I am currently trying to decide if I need to remove the sleeves and just make it into a tank top. Any suggestions? Right now, the Sorbetto is not on my “make again” list.
Ah, the trials and travails of the Colette Sorbetto. The sewing is simple, but the fitting seems to be a challenge regardless of a person’s shape or size. I was similarly underwhelmed with the result, though like you I think the pattern might hang more attractively in a drapier fabric (I also sewed one in a lawn). Based on the CSC discussion, I’d say take the sleeves off and see what you think, but if you still don’t love it, I don’t think anyone would blame you for giving it the boot. You’ve given it more than a fair shake at this point.
Haha! I think you are right about the fabric. I don’t think I can bring myself to try again, yet.
I think you’ve nailed the fit after the alterations. It does look a little stiff (maybe it is the fabric choice). I wouldn’t toss it though. IDK, maybe it’s me. I tend to hang on to well fitting stuff. If nothing else, it’s a great muslin.
Thank you, I tried very hard to get it to fit! I know what you mean, I don’t know if I can bring myself to put it into the scrap pile…yet.
Little puffed sleeves?
Sorry, what now?
I guess I meant just take the sleeves and gather them into puffs, but I don’t sew so not sure if that is possible! I just like puffed sleeves…!
Ah, now I see! I don’t really like puffy sleeves on me. The sleeves started out puffy and I had to get rid of it! I felt like I had should pads in!
I’m not sure you should be taking an alterations course, I think you should be giving classes! Great job :)
Haha! Thank you, that’s very kind. Most of the time I am just taking the leap on faith!