Sewing Pattern Review: 5 out of 4's The Rosanna Tank, Tankini, Dress, and Swim Dress

All I want to do when I wake up in the morning is see your princess seams.

Rosanna, Rosanna.


Never though that a tank top like you could ever care for me, Rosanna...

But she does! 

5 out of 4's newest pattern, the Rosanna, can be sewn into a multitude of styles:
- Tank top
- Tankini
- Dress
- Swim Dress

So far, I have opted for a few different styles and experimented with several fabric types. 

 

The options included with the Rosanna are:
- High or low scoop neckline (I opted for Low scoop necklines, as I am risque!)

- Peplum, Swim, Short Dress, or Long Dress 1/2 Circle Lengths

- Peplum, Swim, Short Dress, or Long Dress Full Circle Lengths

My first choice was the Swim Top, made from random spandex fabric from my sister's stash. 

I used the 1/2 Circle Swim Skirt, and even added in pockets for removable bra cups - those aren't cheap, and I prefer just swapping them between outfits. 

Here are the instructions for the removable bra cups.

Look at that scoop!

 I really like the coverage, as I'm not too confidant about my legs. This swim top definitely makes me feel sassy!

Finally, I paired my top with the Reversible Riptide Swim Shorts - they are so comfortable, and my go-to swim shorts. 

For my next version, I sewed the Peplum Top version.

I meshed together some Star Wars Cotton Lycra, lightweight Double Brushed Poly with the Star & Floral fabrics. 

I love the drape, and that the skirt isn't a fabric hog. 

The princess seam is beautiful and sits flat each time I create this top. It's an awesome scrap buster too, so will co-ordinate with multiple outfits that I've used the same fabric with. 

The skirt doesn't do anything funky (like make me look bigger in the belly), and doesn't fly up in the wind either. 

 And finally, I created another Peplum with some leftover Liverpool  (floral) and Cotton Lycra (maroon)

Again, I sewed this top with the removable bra cup option - perfect for this back when I'm not wearing a lacy bra. 

The seams sit flat, the armcycle is perfect, and I love the drape. 

I made a funky back on this top, using stretch lace instead of the pattern's binding for the strappy back option - try it out - it's SO much easier, and looks really pretty. 

I paired them with my Zen Pants, another 5 out of 4 pattern.

 

 I recommend learning a new skill (the Princess Seam), and making yourself a few new flattering additions to your wardrobe this summer with the Rosanna - Grab it now!

Savvy Patterns - The Grace Tankini

The Grace Tankini is a vintage inspired two piece swimsuit with a variety of options.

The top I tested (View A) contains a Pretty circle cut out in the back.

The alternate, View B top, has a ruched center area which is customizable to flatter your figure.  Both top views include a shelf bra.

I sewed lining and cups inside, and the fit (and directions for fit) were on par.

During testing, Audrey made sure that the fit and feel were right for all sizes - and this meant a multitude of pattern amendments.  We worked together, and finally had the perfect fit under the arms, and with the behind.

For the bottoms, I tested out a circle skirt, but you can choose from a sporty bottom with or without ruching, or a panty.

Each of these 4 bottoms can be made either high waisted or to sit on your hips.  I prefer high waisted to cover up that whole "eating poutine with a pint" thing and neglecting my Beachbody workouts for the last while.

Once my workouts are back on track, beyond just daily yoga, I'll aim for the solo panty version - as I tried the tankini on with my 5 out of 4 Pattern's Reversible Riptide bottoms, and the pairing is amazing! 

Savvy Patterns Grace Tankini, 5 out of 4's Reversible Riptides, and George & Ginger Daybreak Rashguard!

The cut of the circle was a bit weird to understand at first for some, but I'd already completed a Twirly Skirt recently, so the double folding for a circle without seams was easy for me to comprehend.  I still haven't hemmed mine, but to be honest, I used the thicker swim fabric I sewed Husband's 5 out of 4 Men's Swim Trunks from, and swim fabric tends not to shred at the edges, so I'll see how long I can hold out before the edges become frayed.

The skirt is twirly, fun, and makes me feel pretty.  Plus I like something covering my behind and thighs, so it's perfect for my comfort level. And Merlin seemed to enjoy our photoshoot for our Fit Pics :)

On the Savvy Patterns website, Audrey (aka pattern designer with flair!) provides tips and links to swim sewing tutorials
 

But honestly, the pattern is straight forward, and a good quick afternoon sew before you head out to the beach!

I can't wait until I have the chance to make the Ruched Version, as I would ruch every single article of clothing I had if I could!  It's pretty and flattering, and gives me confidence - and that's what Sewing My Wardrobe is all about.

Grab yourself a copy of the pattern and swim suit fabric (while it's still available! Winter is COMING!), and Sew On!