Nautical Stripe Strapless Tunic

There are wonderful versions of this top on Pattern Review from the September 2009 issue of Burda. I was inspired to make my own version using my remaining nautical stripe knit fabric.



I made a few changes to the design, the most significant being the elimination of the pleats below the bustline, as I didn't want any fullness. I read in the reviews that, with the base bodice pieces plus the folded draped pieces that cross in front and back, you end up with a lot of bulk, so the recommendation was to use a thin knit and to possibly eliminate the fold of the draped pieces (adding seam allowances instead). My nautical stripe fabric is pretty stable and substantial, so to cut down on the bulk, I removed the fold from the draped pieces and just hemmed them and I also removed the draped piece in the back, which left just the base bodice. I added rick rack trim to the front draped pieces as an accent.





There is a bodice lining as well. I didn't have a stretch lining fabric, so I just cut up an old J. Crew perfect fit t-shirt that has seen better days and used it as the lining. It worked well! The only problem I had was the elastic casing along the top of the bodice. I believe the casing is supposed to be made by sewing the lining to the seam allowance of the bodice, so the seam wouldn't show on the outside. I ended up sewing the lining to the bodice so the line of stitching shows on the correct side, but I think it is ok. In fact, I think it is more stable this way. I used a 0.25-inch wide elastic. I think a wider one may work better, as indicated by some of the reviewers.



Overall, this is an easy-to-sew and comfortable top that fits snugly around the bodice. The pattern is versatile and can be altered in a variety of ways, which makes it fun!