I knew I had to have this pattern when it got released, and I bought it right away. It looks a little bit similar to the Envelope Dress that I sewed a couple years ago, but it’s quite a bit different. I really like that the Envelope Dress is a no waste pattern, but the neckline wasn’t very comfortable for me.
The Rumi Dress & Top (up to 62.5″ hip) by Sew LaLa has a back and front seam, and I really love the sleeves. They have such a clever construction that makes it so they don’t have to be hemmed! They’re also a really good length and lay nicely. I bought the English version of the pattern, and it was really easy to understand the instructions and illustrations. I made the top with a straight hem.
I was able to squeeze this out of 1 1/3 yards of this textured linen blend from Style Maker (color: Sea Glass). I got it from the remnants section, so I didn’t get the exact amount recommending for the pattern, but it worked out pretty well! I cut everything in the flat to make sure I was using as much of the fabric as I could. I ended up having to cut one of the back pieces on the cross grain, but it didn’t affect the fit and you can’t tell at all. It helps that this fabric didn’t have a print to have to worry about.
I also didn’t have quite enough to cut the whole bias binding piece for the neckline, so I cut two separate pieces and sewed them together. Since the two pieces were sewn together, it didn’t quite fit the neckline like it should. I had to stretch the piece quite a bit to get it to fit the neckline, and it didn’t work so well. So, if you cut two pieces for the bias binding and have to sew it together, make sure to give yourself extra length. Then once you’ve sewn it on you can cut the excess off.
I measure at an 8 in the bust and 10 in the waist and hips on this pattern, so to make it easy, I just made the size 10. I really like the oversized fit, but I would definitely make a size 8 next time. There is plenty of ease in the pattern, so it’s safe to size down one size. Or if you have a similar oversized shirt that you like, you can try it up to the pattern pieces to compare and decide.
I added 1.5″ to the bodice length, and I think that was the right amount to add for me. I’ve noticed that most oversized, drop shoulder patterns tend to pull forwards and backwards throughout the day, and this pattern does too. It’s not a problem with the pattern, just something you want to be aware of if that’s going to bother you.
I really like how this top turned out, and I would definitely make it again. Let me know if you have any questions or comments, and happy sewing!
I love to read your blog posts. It is easy to picture what you are explaining. Nice job, Tori!
That makes me so happy, Grandma! I try really hard to be clear and Dallas usually proofreads it, so if he gets it, then I hope most others will! haha
Tori thanks for explaining everything the way you did. It’s like talking to a friend right. The top looks great, sew comfy, haha. Great job.
I’m so glad to hear that, Cate! Thank you! 🙂
I enjoyed this piece as this pattern is new to me. I love your version. That colour is so lovely! I think I need one like these in my wardrobe and have the perfect fabric for it waiting to come to life! 😄
I’m glad you liked it, Ann! This is a very new pattern, so that’s probably why. But I can vouch that the designer, Anna, is very good at what she does! I am so excited for you to make yours!