Sometimes you just need to sew this basics, because if I’m being honest the basics are really what I wear the most often. I love sewing the fun stuff like fancy dresses, backless tops and even swimsuits, but you can always use a t-shirt!

This one is great because I can wear it on the weekends with jeans, but I can also get away with wearing it to my business casual desk job. I prefer a V-neck tee so Simplicity 8177 is one of my favorites. I feel it’s often overlooked because the duster and pants are what catch your eye first, but this is a well drafted tee.

It offers a longs and short sleeve option as well as a pocket (that I omitted here). If installing a v-neck band seems tricky (they used to seem impossible to me) watching Mimi install it on the accompanying video is very helpful.

See my guest post over on Fabric Mart Fabricista for tips on how to line up your stripes for seamless side seams.

Pattern: Simplicity 8177

Pattern Description:  Pattern features a duster length coat or vest, long or short sleeve knit top and wide leg pants with cuff and high waistband.

Sizing:  10-18, 20W-28W I sewed an 18

Difficulty: 2/easy

Fabric Used: Navy and white stripe jersey

Does it look like the photo/drawing on the pattern envelope? Yes, even though you can’t really see it.

Were the instructions easy to follow? Yes as it’s a simple make, but if you get stuck on anything you can watch the sewalong video.

Likes: easy, quick top.

Dislikes:  none

Pattern alterations or any design changes made:  None except omitting the breast pocket

Would I sew it again?  Yes, this is already my second time making it.

Would I recommend it to others?  Yes, definitely