A few months ago the Avenir Jumsuit from Friday Pattern Co. was re-released, and in an incredibly size inclusive XS-7X range (32″/81cm – 60″/152cm).
The jumpsuit has wide leg trousers and wide billowy raglan sleeves which can be short or long – the long sleeve is gathered with elastic.
I chose to make a cropped leg trouser as I think this suits my 5’2″ height better, and a sleeve that finishes just below my elbow.
As for sizing, I cut a straight size medium. My measurements atm are 36-32-42, and whilst this put me in a size M bust, and a size L waist and hip on their size chart, I decided to opt for a size medium throughout after looking at the finished garment measurements, (and simply use a longer length of elastic for the waist than recommended).
I am absolutely over the moon with the fabric that I bought to make it with. It’s funny how you can get excited about a plain black fabric, but this is the most beautiful quality viscose twill from Jenny Stitches. It has a beautiful drape, is soft and breathable and that diagonal twill texture is pretty. Sadly it looks like this has now sold out but do check out Jenny’s lovely range of fabrics, as the recommendation for this pattern is simply ‘woven fabrics’. So as long as you avoid anything stiff or heavy you are good to go!
This has got to be one of the easiest patterns to sew, and therefore a very enjoyable experience. Perfect for every level of experience, there is also a sew-along video on the Friday Pattern Company YouTube channel which you can view here, if you are unsure about anything. Just to mention at this point that the sewing instructions and diagrams are very easy to follow.
The gathered neckline is so pretty and stays comfortably on my shoulders without falling down. It also has pockets 🙂
Alterations that I made.
As mentioned before, I added approx 5cm to the recommended waist elastic length due to the sizing decision that I made.
I shortened the long sleeves by approx 4″. This was because I neither wanted them long or short. It was pot luck where they were finally going to hit on my arms but they sit just below the elbow which I am delighted about. I also lengthened the sleeve hem elastic by a couple of inches as I wanted roomy cuffs that would easily slide up and down my arms when I raised them.
Finally I shortened the leg length by 4″ so that they were a cropped length for my 5’2″ height.
The end result is a quick easy jumpsuit which is incredibly comfortable and easy to get on and off (no tricky fastenings). I am keen to make another version in a lighter weight cotton, maybe seersucker, as I must admit that whilst I took this on our recent trip to Florida, it was much too warm to wear it. However back in the good old UK, it is perfect! Ha!
Hope that you love this as much as I do – it was a pleasure to sew, and equally a pleasure to wear.
Take care, I’ll be back soon,
Kathy x
Catch me on Instagram @sew_dainty
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